The 4th of July is basically the Super Bowl of backyard cookouts, and I take my party menu very seriously.
Fireworks? Cool. Red, white, and blue outfits? Sure.
But the real MVP? The food. Whether you’re a team burger or all about the sides, I’ve got you covered with the best Fourth of July recipes that will make your celebration legendary.
The Best Fourth of July Foods
It’s not a 4th of July party without a table packed with delicious eats. From smoky grilled burgers to crisp, refreshing salads, these recipes bring all the flavor and festive vibes.
Prepare yourself for mouthwatering bites that scream summer!
1. Mustard-Glazed Mushroom Burger
This burger is here to prove that mushrooms deserve a seat at the grilling table. Juicy Portobello mushrooms soak up a tangy mustard glaze, making every bite savory and satisfying.
Grilled to perfection and stacked with fresh toppings like arugula and melted Swiss cheese, this burger isn’t just for vegetarians—it’s for anyone who loves big, bold flavors. Pro tip: Toast the bun for extra crunch!
2. Ina’s Potato Salad
Listen, if there’s one thing you need at a 4th of July cookout, it’s a solid potato salad. Ina Garten’s version is creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of indulgent.
With a mix of tender potatoes, crunchy celery, and a perfectly seasoned mayo-mustard dressing, this potato salad will have people asking for the recipe (and maybe seconds).
3. Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Looking for a lighter side dish? This Mediterranean orzo salad brings a refreshing, zesty twist to the table.
It’s packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and crumbled feta cheese—all tossed in a simple lemon-olive oil dressing.The best part?
It tastes even better after sitting for a while, making it perfect for picnics and potlucks.
4. Crab Cake Sliders
Let’s talk seafood! These crab cake sliders are bite-sized flavor bombs that’ll disappear from your table in minutes.
Made with sweet, lump crab meat, crispy breadcrumbs, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning, they’re served on soft brioche buns with a zesty remoulade sauce.
Serve them with a squeeze of lemon, and watch your guests fight over the last one.
5. Mama’s Cornmeal Hushpuppies
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—hushpuppies are the unsung heroes of Southern cooking.
These golden bites are made with cornmeal, buttermilk, and a hint of spice, then deep-fried to perfection. Dip them in honey butter or tartar sauce, and you’ll understand why these little fritters have a cult following.
6. Easy Peach Cobbler
4th Of July Sweet Treats wouldn’t be complete without a warm, gooey peach cobbler.
This dessert is effortless yet absolutely irresistible, with juicy, caramelized peaches bubbling under a golden, buttery crust.
Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and suddenly, fireworks aren’t the only thing lighting up the night.
7. Spicy Coleslaw
Classic coleslaw? Boring. Spicy coleslaw? Now we’re talking! This crunchy, colorful slaw gets a kick from jalapeños and a creamy, slightly tangy dressing.
It’s the perfect contrast to rich, smoky barbecue dishes, and it adds a refreshing crunch to sandwiches and burgers. Trust me, you’ll never look at regular coleslaw the same way again.
8. Gazpacho
Soup in the summer? Absolutely—when it’s gazpacho! This chilled tomato soup is refreshing, vibrant, and packed with fresh flavors like cucumbers, bell peppers, and garlic.
It’s like drinking sunshine out of a bowl. Bonus: It’s ridiculously easy to make—just blend everything and let it chill. Serve in cute glasses for a fancy touch!
9. Tomato and Watermelon Salad
This unexpected combo is a total game-changer.
Sweet watermelon meets juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and refreshing—exactly what you want on a hot July day.
10. Raspberry Lemonade
Nothing beats an ice-cold glass of homemade raspberry lemonade.
Tart lemons and sweet raspberries come together in this thirst-quenching drink that looks just as good as it tastes.
Serve it over ice with a few fresh mint leaves, and you’ve got the ultimate summer sip.
11. Ree’s Grilled Burgers
When it comes to burgers, Ree Drummond knows what she’s doing.
These grilled beauties are juicy, flavorful, and just the right amount of messy. Made with a perfect blend of beef, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of spice, they grill up with that irresistible smoky char.
Load them up with your favorite toppings, and watch them disappear faster than the fireworks finale.
12. Macaroni Salad with Grilled Shrimp
Macaroni salad is a 4th of July staple, but let’s take it up a notch with grilled shrimp.
The creamy pasta pairs beautifully with smoky, slightly charred shrimp, and the dressing—made with a mix of mayo, Dijon mustard, and a splash of vinegar—ties everything together. It’s rich, refreshing, and an instant crowd-pleaser.
The Grand Finale
There you have it—the ultimate 4th of July menu that’ll have your guests raving long after the last sparkler fades.
Whether you’re firing up the grill, whipping up a fresh salad, or sneaking an extra scoop of peach cobbler, these recipes bring all the summer magic to your table. Now, let’s get cooking!