Sarah Scoop

menu icon
subscribe
search icon
Browse by Holiday →

25 Best Labor Day Party Food Ideas

Labor Day is the perfect excuse to go all-in on summer favorites that are easy to serve, fun to snack on, and totally cookout-ready.

Set yourself up with a party serving tray, charcuterie board, and appetizer toothpicks so everything looks festive without extra work.

1. Backyard Cheeseburger Slider Tray

A tray of cheeseburger sliders topped with ketchup and mustard sits on a red, white, and blue checkered cloth, with a sign reading "Backyard Cheeseburger Sliders.

These sliders taste like the best part of a cookout, but they’re easier to serve and way more grab-and-go.

They’re perfect for families, kids, and anyone who wants “just one more” bite.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat so the patties get a nice sear.
  2. In a bowl, gently mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder without overworking the meat.
  3. Form 12 thin slider patties that match the size of your slider buns.
  4. Cook patties about 2–3 minutes per side, then top each with half a slice of cheddar and cover briefly to melt.
  5. Lightly toast buns cut-side down in the same skillet for 30–60 seconds so they don’t get soggy.
  6. Assemble with ketchup, mustard, and pickle slices, then serve on a tray while they’re warm.

2. Hot Dog “Bar” Bites on a Platter

A platter of mini hot dogs topped with ketchup, mustard, onions, and relish is displayed on a checkered tablecloth, with a small American flag as decoration.

These give you all the fun of a hot dog bar without the chaos of full-size buns. Guests can grab their favorite combo and keep moving.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cook hot dogs on the grill or stovetop until heated through and lightly browned.
  2. Cut each hot dog into 3 bite-size pieces and slice buns into thirds to match.
  3. Place a hot dog piece into each bun piece like a tiny “slider,” then secure with toothpicks.
  4. Set out toppings in little bowls: cheddar, onion, and relish.
  5. Drizzle a few bites with ketchup and a few with mustard so the platter looks tempting right away.
  6. Arrange everything on a large platter and let guests customize more as they go.

3. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches (Crowd Favorite)

A tray of six BBQ pulled pork sandwiches topped with coleslaw sits on a red, white, and blue checkered tablecloth. One sandwich has a small American flag.

This is the kind of party food that makes people feel instantly taken care of. It’s hearty, saucy, and easy to keep warm for hours.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Place pork shoulder into a slow cooker.
  2. Whisk BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, paprika, and salt, then pour over the pork.
  3. Cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4–5) until the meat shreds easily with a fork.
  4. Shred the pork in the slow cooker and stir so it soaks up all the sauce.
  5. Toast buns lightly so they hold up to the juicy pork.
  6. Serve pulled pork on buns and top with a pinch of coleslaw mix for crunch.

4. Sticky Honey BBQ Chicken Drumettes

A plate of glazed honey BBQ chicken drumettes garnished with sesame seeds, placed on a checkered napkin with a small American flag toothpick.

These are sweet, smoky, and perfect for guests who want something finger-licking good. They’re easy to bake in batches and stay tasty even as they cool.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat the oven to 425°F and set a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet so the chicken crisps on all sides.
  2. Pat drumettes dry, then arrange them in a single layer on the rack.
  3. Bake 30 minutes, flipping halfway so they brown evenly.
  4. While they bake, whisk BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and paprika.
  5. Brush the sauce over the chicken and bake 10–12 more minutes until sticky and glossy.
  6. Let rest 5 minutes before serving so the glaze sets up nicely.

5. Red, White, and Blue Fruit Board

A round board with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, mini marshmallows, yogurt-covered pretzels, and a bowl of dip, arranged on a red, white, and blue napkin with a small US flag.

This looks so festive on the table and gives everyone something refreshing between heavier bites. It’s also the easiest “wow” factor you can assemble in minutes.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Wash and dry strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries so the board stays neat.
  2. Place small bowls on your board for dip and fill them with vanilla Greek yogurt.
  3. Stir honey and vanilla into the yogurt for a quick fruit dip.
  4. Build a “blue” section with blueberries, then a “white” section with mini marshmallows and white chocolate pretzels.
  5. Fill the “red” section with strawberries and raspberries, tucking extra berries into gaps so it looks full.
  6. Chill until serving if you’re outside, then set out with extra napkins.

6. Classic Macaroni Salad (Make-Ahead)

A bowl of macaroni salad with vegetables on a red, white, and blue checkered cloth, next to a small American flag. Text reads "Classic Macaroni Salad.

This is the creamy side dish everyone expects at a cookout, and it’s even better after it chills. It’s great for feeding a big group without babysitting the stove all day.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until just tender, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
  2. In a big bowl, whisk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and mustard until smooth.
  3. Stir in celery, red onion, red bell pepper, and carrots.
  4. Add the cooled macaroni and toss until every piece is coated.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, then chill at least 2 hours so the flavors blend.
  6. Right before serving, give it a quick stir and add an extra spoonful of mayo if it looks dry.

7. Creamy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

A bowl of rotini pasta salad with sliced pickles, diced celery, and fresh dill, set on a red, white, and blue checkered tablecloth with small American flags nearby.

If your crowd loves pickles, this one gets talked about and asked for every year. It’s tangy, creamy, and feels like a fun twist on a classic cookout side.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cook rotini until just tender, then rinse under cold water and drain very well.
  2. Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, and pickle juice until smooth.
  3. Stir in diced pickles, celery, and fresh dill.
  4. Season with garlic powder and black pepper, then fold in the pasta.
  5. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour so it tastes extra punchy.
  6. Before serving, stir again and add a splash more pickle juice if you want it creamier.

8. Flag-Themed Taco Dip Board

A rectangular taco dip is decorated to resemble the American flag, with blue chips and sliced olives as the stars and striped rows of toppings as the flag’s stripes, surrounded by tortilla chips.

This is a fun, party-ready way to serve a classic layered dip, and it looks adorable on the snack table. It’s perfect if you want something festive without a complicated recipe.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Spread refried beans in an even rectangle on a platter or tray.
  2. Mix softened cream cheese with sour cream and taco seasoning, then spread over the beans.
  3. Add a layer of shredded cheddar across the whole surface.
  4. Create “red stripes” using diced tomatoes in lines across the dip.
  5. Create “white stripes” using shredded lettuce in alternating lines.
  6. Make a “blue corner” with black olives clustered in one top corner.
  7. Surround with tortilla chips and serve immediately or chill until guests arrive.

9. Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter

A plate of grilled corn on the cob sits on a striped cloth, with an American flag in a glass jar in the background. Text reads: "Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter.

This brings big summer flavor to your spread and pairs with basically everything on the grill. It’s a simple upgrade that feels special for a holiday weekend.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the grill and clean grates with a grill brush.
  2. Grill corn over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning often with tongs until lightly charred.
  3. In a bowl, mash softened butter with chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt.
  4. Brush or spread the chili-lime butter over hot corn so it melts into every groove.
  5. Serve immediately, and set out extra butter for anyone who wants more.

10. Watermelon Feta Mint Salad Bowl

A glass bowl of watermelon, feta, and mint salad sits on a striped tablecloth with a small American flag in the background. Text reads "WATERMELON FETA MINT SALAD.

This is refreshing, colorful, and the perfect “break” from heavier BBQ foods. It’s especially great if your Labor Day party is outside in the heat.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Add watermelon cubes to a large salad bowl.
  2. Sprinkle in crumbled feta and torn mint leaves.
  3. Whisk olive oil, lime juice, honey, and pepper.
  4. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently so the watermelon doesn’t break down.
  5. Chill for 20–30 minutes, then toss once more right before serving.

11. Creamy Buffalo Chicken Dip

A baked dish of buffalo chicken dip topped with chives, served with celery sticks and tortilla chips, with a small American flag decoration on the dip.

This is the dip people hover over all day, especially when you keep it warm and scoopable. It’s great with chips, crackers, and crunchy veggies.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Add cream cheese, ranch, and buffalo sauce to a slow cooker.
  2. Stir in shredded chicken and half the cheddar.
  3. Cover and heat on low for 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy and hot.
  4. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar and mozzarella on top, then cover until melted.
  5. Serve with tortilla chips and celery sticks for scooping.

12. Chili Cheese Dog Dip

A glass dish of chili cheese dog dip topped with diced onions and cheese, surrounded by tortilla chips, with an American flag in the background.

This tastes like the best fair-style snack, but it’s way easier for a crowd. It’s warm, cheesy, and made for big scoops.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat the oven to 375°F and set out a baking dish.
  2. Spread softened cream cheese into the bottom of the dish.
  3. Spoon chili evenly over the cream cheese.
  4. Top with cheddar and bake 18–22 minutes until bubbly.
  5. Drizzle mustard over the top and sprinkle with diced onion for that “loaded dog” vibe.
  6. Serve hot with corn chips.

13. Grilled Veggie and Halloumi Skewers

A wooden plate with grilled skewers of halloumi cheese, zucchini, red onion, and red bell pepper on a checkered tablecloth, with a small American flag decoration.

These are colorful, fresh, and a great option when you want something a little lighter. They look so cute lined up on a platter, and they cook fast.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes so they don’t scorch.
  2. Cut halloumi, zucchini, red peppers, and red onion into 1-inch chunks.
  3. Toss everything with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and salt.
  4. Thread the skewers, alternating cheese and veggies so every skewer looks colorful.
  5. Grill 8–10 minutes, turning with tongs, until halloumi gets golden edges and veggies are tender-crisp.
  6. Serve warm, and sprinkle with extra seasoning if you want.

14. Grilled Sausage and Pepper Hoagie Pan

Two sausage and pepper hoagies on a metal plate with sliced bell peppers and onions, set on a checkered cloth, with a small American flag decoration.

This is hearty party food that feels effortless once it’s on the grill. Slice it up and people can build their own perfect bite.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium and place a disposable pan on one side to preheat.
  2. Slice bell peppers and onion into strips.
  3. Toss veggies with olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, then add to the pan on the grill.
  4. Grill sausage links over direct heat, turning often, until browned and cooked through.
  5. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer, then slice sausages into thick pieces.
  6. Toss sausage slices into the peppers and onions, then pile into hoagie rolls for serving.

15. Loaded Nacho Sheet Pan

A tray of loaded nachos topped with melted cheese, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and jalapeños, served with salsa and sour cream on a checkered tablecloth.

This is the easiest way to feed a crowd fast, and it disappears every time. The best part is everyone can grab a loaded corner and keep mingling.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat the oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment if you want easier cleanup.
  2. Spread tortilla chips in a thick, even layer.
  3. Sprinkle with Mexican blend cheese, then scatter black beans and corn across the top.
  4. Bake 8–10 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges crisp.
  5. Top with diced tomatoes and jalapeños.
  6. Serve with sour cream and salsa on the side for scooping and drizzling.

16. Crispy Baked Potato Wedges with Dip Trio

A wooden tray of baked potato wedges with three dipping sauces, placed on a checkered cloth beside a small American flag, with "Baked Potato Wedges" text in front.

These feel like classic party snack food, but they’re easier (and cheaper) than fries for a crowd. The dip trio makes it feel extra fun and customizable.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat the oven to 425°F and set out a rimmed baking sheet.
  2. Scrub russet potatoes and cut into thick wedges, keeping sizes similar so they cook evenly.
  3. Toss wedges with olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.
  4. Arrange wedges cut-side down with space between them so they crisp instead of steam.
  5. Bake 25–35 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  6. Serve with three dips: ketchup, ranch, and BBQ sauce.

17. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle

Wooden plate with caprese skewers made of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze, set on a checkered tablecloth with an American flag toothpick.

These are fresh, cute, and always feel a little fancy on a party table. They’re great for guests who want something light and colorful.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Thread tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil onto skewers in that order.
  2. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
  3. Finish with sea salt flakes and serve right away, or chill until guests arrive.

18. Deviled Eggs with Paprika “Stars”

A rectangular white plate of twelve deviled eggs on a table with red, white, and blue patriotic decorations.

Deviled eggs are a cookout classic, and the little star detail makes them feel extra holiday-ready. They’re also great to prep ahead and keep chilled.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Hard-boil eggs, cool in ice water, then peel and slice in half lengthwise.
  2. Scoop yolks into a bowl and mash until fine.
  3. Stir in mayonnaise, mustard, relish, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Spoon filling into a piping bag and pipe into the egg whites.
  5. Dust with smoked paprika, using a small star stencil if you want the cute shape.
  6. Chill on a deviled egg tray until serving.

19. BBQ Ranch Pretzel Snack Mix

A bowl of BBQ ranch pretzel mix sits on a checkered tablecloth with a small American flag nearby.

This is the perfect “set it out and watch it disappear” party snack. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and totally addictive with barely any effort.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Pour pretzels and cheddar crackers into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Whisk oil with ranch seasoning, BBQ seasoning, and paprika.
  3. Pour the seasoned oil over the mix and toss for a full minute so everything is evenly coated.
  4. Let sit 10 minutes, then toss again so the flavor really sticks.
  5. Serve in a big bowl and refill as needed.

20. Strawberry Lemonade “Mocktail” Pitcher

A glass pitcher of strawberry lemonade mocktail with lemon slices, strawberries, and blueberries, placed on a red, white, and blue striped cloth with a small American flag.

This is a party drink that feels festive and summery without being complicated. It’s great for kids and adults, and it looks adorable with fruit floating on top.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Pour strawberry lemonade into a drink dispenser.
  2. Add sparkling water for a fizzy finish (add right before serving for max bubbles).
  3. Drop in ice, then add strawberries, blueberries, and lemon slices.
  4. Stir gently and set out cups nearby so guests can help themselves.

21. Red, White, and Blue Berry Trifle Cups

Individual glass cups filled with layers of sponge cake, whipped cream, raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries on a wooden tray. The text reads "Berry Trifle Cups.

These are cute, festive, and super easy to serve without cutting anything. They’re perfect for a party table because they look fancy but take minimal effort.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Set out dessert cups in a row so assembling feels quick and tidy.
  2. Add a layer of pound cake cubes to the bottom of each cup.
  3. Spoon on a layer of whipped topping, then add strawberries and blueberries.
  4. Repeat the layers once more, finishing with whipped topping on top.
  5. Garnish with a few raspberries and extra blueberries for a red-white-blue look.
  6. Add mini spoons and chill until serving.
A plate of rectangular sugar cookie bars topped with red, white, and blue sprinkles sits on an American flag-themed tablecloth.

These are a no-fuss dessert that still looks party-perfect on the table. The sprinkle top gives instant festive vibes with almost zero extra work.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13 pan.
  2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then mix in eggs and vanilla.
  3. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt just until a soft dough forms.
  4. Press dough evenly into the pan (use slightly damp hands if it’s sticky).
  5. Sprinkle the top with red, white, and blue sprinkles.
  6. Bake 18–22 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, then cool completely before slicing into bars.

23. Red, White, and Blue Jello Cups

Small plastic cups filled with layered red, white, and blue jello are arranged on a metal tray, set on a table with patriotic decorations.

These are cute, nostalgic, and always a hit with kids (and honestly, adults too). They look super festive lined up in the fridge and are easy to serve.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Set out clear cups on a tray that fits in your fridge.
  2. Make the red layer by dissolving strawberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in ½ cup cold water.
  3. Pour a small layer into each cup and chill until set (usually 45–60 minutes).
  4. Make the white layer by blooming unflavored gelatin in water, then whisking in sweetened condensed milk for a creamy middle.
  5. Let the white mixture cool slightly (so it doesn’t melt the red), then pour on top and chill until set.
  6. Make the blue layer with berry blue gelatin using the same method as the red layer, then add as the final top layer.
  7. Chill until fully set and serve cold.

24. Classic Strawberry Shortcake Tray

A plate of strawberry shortcakes with whipped cream, set on a checkered cloth, topped with a small American flag.

This feels like the sweetest end-of-summer dessert and is so easy to scale up. Guests can build their own plate, which makes it perfect for a casual party vibe.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Toss sliced strawberries with sugar and let sit 15–20 minutes so they get syrupy.
  2. Stir vanilla into whipped topping.
  3. Arrange shortcake biscuits on a large platter and set out bowls of strawberries and whipped topping nearby.
  4. Use serving spoons so guests can build their own without a mess.

25. Stars-and-Stripes Snack Board

A patriotic snack board with assorted cheeses, fruits, meats, and small American flags, displayed on a checkered tablecloth.

This is the ultimate party move: it feeds everyone, looks festive, and takes almost no cooking. It’s especially great if you want something Pinterest-worthy that’s still easy.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Place a large board on your table and set a couple of ramekins on it to create “anchors” for the layout.
  2. Create a “blue corner” by piling blueberries tightly together on one end of the board.
  3. Make “white stripes” using white cheddar cubes and mini marshmallows.
  4. Make “red stripes” with strawberries and folded salami.
  5. Fill gaps with assorted crackers so the board looks full and snackable.
  6. Add flag toothpicks for a festive touch and easier grabbing.

FAQ

How do I plan Labor Day party food ideas without cooking all day?

Pick a few warm items you can keep going in a slow cooker and balance them with cold, make-ahead dishes like pasta salads and boards.

Using food storage containers helps you prep the day before so party day is mostly just assembling and serving.

What are the best make-ahead options for a cookout?

Pasta salads, dips, fruit boards, and dessert cups are perfect because they taste even better after chilling.

Keep everything cold in a cooler bag with ice packs, especially if you’re serving outdoors.

How can I make the table look festive with Labor Day party food ideas?

Choose a simple red-white-and-blue theme and arrange foods in sections so it looks intentional.

A charcuterie board and serving trays make it easy to style the spread without extra decorating.

What’s the easiest way to serve food for a big crowd?

Go for build-your-own setups and big-batch trays, like nachos, pulled pork buns, and snack boards.

Having plenty of serving spoons and party plates keeps the line moving and reduces mess.

How do I keep hot foods safe and warm outside?

Use a slow cooker or warming tray to keep dips and meats at a safe serving temperature.

For grilled items, tent them loosely with foil and check with an instant-read thermometer if you’re holding them before serving.

Labor Day Foods

The best Labor Day party food ideas are the ones that feel fun, feed a crowd, and let you actually enjoy the day instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

If you set up a mix of warm favorites and chilled make-ahead options on party serving trays, your table will look inviting all afternoon.

Get the scoop on more like this:

More Food & Recipes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.