“We’re just enjoying life and having fun.”
Trying to figure out what you’re serving for the 4th of July? You’re not alone!
The 4th of July is the ultimate summer gathering and is often packed with entertainment (fireworks, yard games and parades) and good company, but nothing screams 4th of July like the party menu.
After all, someone needs to provide the fuel that keeps the party going!
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Most of your guests will be looking for classic 4th of July food ideas, such as hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, potato salad and corn on the cob — all of which are worth adding to your menu.
But there’s nothing wrong with offering something a little more unique and creative.
Whether you’re looking for some appetizers for guests to snack on, entrees to fill everyone up or desserts to complete the menu, we’ve put together some of our favorite 4th of July recipes worth a try this year!
So, let’s fire up those grills, light up the fireworks and have ourselves an All-American 4th of July feast!
4th of July appetizers to set the mood
The perfect 4th of July celebration starts with a wonderful display of appetizers.
Believe it or not, there’s an art to these opening bites — which should embody the relaxed, festive atmosphere of America's birthday while building anticipation for the feast that lies ahead.
Think vibrant red, white, and blue presentations using fresh seasonal ingredients.
The key is creating shareable plates that look as good as they taste and encourage mingling and conversation while guests gather around the grill or settle in for backyard games.
Here are a few 4th of July appetizers that fit the bill — without taking up too much of your time!
5. Star Spangled Deviled Eggs
These deviled eggs are getting quite a 4th of July makeover.
Start by hard-boiling your eggs, then carefully halve them and remove the yolks. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard and a pinch of salt until creamy.
For the patriotic presentation, divide the yolk mixture into three portions: leave one plain for white, mix paprika into another for red, and blend a tiny amount of blue food coloring into the third.
@kimberlyannbrock American flag deviled eggs! 🇺🇸 #KimberlyAnnBrock #Flag #4thOfJuly #MemorialDay #DeviledEggs #Merica #USA ♬ original sound - Dylan
You can also add food coloring to the actual egg and stick with the classic yellow filling.
Pipe or spoon the different colored mixtures into the egg white halves and arrange them by color to form an American flag (red and white stripes with blue square in the top left corner).
Add star-shaped sprinkles and edible figurines for even more of a 4th of July effect!
4. American Flag Fruit Platter
Bring the stars and stripes to life using some of nature's sweetest offerings.
Arrange fresh, cut strawberries in alternating rows with sliced bananas or white cheese cubes to create the flag's red and white stripes across a large rectangular platter.
In the upper left corner, create the blue field by filling a square section with fresh blueberries, representing the star field of our nation's flag.
@alisha_larson Patriotic Fruit Kabobs 🇺🇸 The cutest presentation for the table this Memorial Day / 4th of July! 10/10 on the easy & 12/10 on the cuteness! ❤️🤍💙 Ingredients/Supplies: ✨Bamboo Skewers ✨Blueberries ✨Raspberries (can substitute for strawberries as well) ✨Mozzarella Pearls (can substitute for mini marshmallows or cheese cubes as well) (I added the berries to fit the plate that I had, can make as big or little as you’d like) 😊 Directions: 1. On the first 5 skewers add 5-6 blueberries to one end of the skewer followed by 4 raspberries and 3 mozzarella pearls, alternating between the two. 2. On the remaining 8 add 6 raspberries and 5 mozzarella pearls to each skewer alternating between the two. (I had 13 skewers total) 3. Place each skewer on a plate or board starting with the blueberry skewers, adjust berries and pearls as needed to line up together. ENJOY! 😋 #EasyRecipes #kabobs #fruitplatter #memorialday #memorialdayweekend #simplerecipes #fourthofjuly #patriotic #redwhiteandblue #berries #healthlysnacks #fingerfood #snackideas ♬ Love Tonight - Edit - Shouse
For added flair, use star-shaped cookie cutters on white cheese or jicama to add among the blueberries.
This healthy, refreshing appetizer not only looks spectacular but also provides a cool treat perfect for hot summer celebrations.
3. Pigs In a Blanket
These little piggies are all dressed up for the occasion.
To keep this appetizer festive, use regular puff pastry for the white and create colored versions by kneading a few drops of red and blue food coloring into separate portions of dough.
Wrap each little sausage in the colored pastry, sealing the edges well.
@zylerslife What are yall doing for the 4th? #appitizer #pigsinablanket #4thofjuly #cookwithme #cook #10minsnack #whatieatinaday #momcook #momswhocook #4thofjulyparty ♬ original sound - 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗵
Arrange them on baking sheets in flag patterns or random patriotic clusters, then bake until golden brown. Serve with mustard, ketchup and a blue-tinted ranch dip to maintain the festive color scheme.
These bite-sized treats disappear quickly at any Fourth of July gathering.
2. Burger & Pulled Pork Sliders
If you’re not having full-sized burgers, then sliders are the perfect 4th of July appetizer.
Form small beef patties and season them with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder before grilling to perfection. As the burgers cook, don’t forget to toast the tiny hamburger buns.
Assemble the sliders with tomato, lettuce, onion, bacon, cheese, pickles and whatever sauce guests like.
@kimberlyj_king Must make these for Memorial Day or Fourth of July party!! The perfect party food or boat or lake day bite size snack. Pro tip, make more than 12 because these will be gone fast 😉 Mini cheeseburger sliders Ingredients: Sliders: 1 lb ground beef 1/2 onion, finely chopped Salt & pepper 12-pack Hawaiian rolls 6 slices American cheese Cooking spray (Pam) Butter Sauce (for topping): 1 stick melted butter 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1/2 tsp garlic powder Dipping Sauce: Mayo Ketchup Mustard Splash of pickle juice Instructions: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a skillet, cook ground beef and onions until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Spray a baking dish with Pam. Slice rolls in half (keep them connected) and place bottom half in dish. Spread beef over the rolls, top with cheese slices, then place top buns on. Mix melted butter, Worcestershire, Dijon, and garlic powder. Pour evenly over top buns. Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes. Uncover and bake 5 more until golden. Mix dipping sauce to taste: mayo, ketchup, mustard, and a splash of pickle juice. Serve warm with dipping sauce—and don’t forget the mini flags! #easyrecipe #recipe #memorialday #sliders #partyfood #fourthofjuly #fyp ♬ All Summer Long - Kid Rock
To add a little variety to your appetizer menu, you can always make mini chicken patties with similar toppings or a pulled pork slider with coleslaw. Having all three will truly impress your guests.
You can also add a little festive flare to the appetizer with American flag toothpicks and colored buns.
1. Tortilla Pinwheels
Tortilla pinwheels are easy, nutritious and perfect for snacking while playing backyard games.
Spread cream cheese mixed with ranch dressing powder across large flour tortillas, creating a flavorful base. Add color with diced red bell peppers, chopped green onions and blue cheese or blueberries.
Add thin slices of turkey or ham for protein, then roll the tortillas tightly and refrigerate for at least an hour.
@theangelhallman If you need a last-minute appetizer to take to a summer get together or Fourth of July party, Pinwheels is a MUST. You can use a variety of ingredients to make it and it takes no time at all. Have you ever made pinwheels before? #4thofjulyparty #4thofjulyappetizers #summerparty #summerrecipe #pinwheels #pinwheel #pinwheelsandwichrecipe #partyfood #appetizerrecipe ♬ 90's house, city pop, 10 minutes(998823) - 8.864
Slice the tortillas into half-inch rounds to reveal beautiful spiral patterns showcasing the red, white and blue ingredients. Serve alongside ranch, salsa, guacamole and/or hummus for additional flavor.
Since tortilla pinwheels do well in the fridge, don’t be afraid to make extra — they’re good for 3-4 days!
4th of July recipes to fill your guests up
If it fits on a grill or can be barbecued, chances are your guests will love it.
The entree is the heart of the celebration — where smoky flavors, grilled appetites and generous portions reflect the abundance and bold spirit of America’s favorite holiday.
Seasoned burgers, charred hot dogs, fall-off-the-bone ribs and pulled pork take center stage here.
These dishes should be robust enough to fuel afternoon activities (such as cornhole, horseshoes and, eventually, fireworks) yet refined enough to honor the occasion.
If you’re looking to wow the crowd with your party menu, then try one of these 4th of July recipes!
5. Shish kabobs
Bring the colors of the American flag to your grill with these 4th of July shish kabobs.
Start by threading your skewers with alternating red cherry tomatoes, white pearl onions and, for the blue element, marinated mushrooms or small pieces of red onion that turn deep purple when grilled.
@chefchel Grillin' season!☀️#fyp #4thofjuly #shishkebab #chickenkebab #easyrecipes ♬ Mood (feat. BNXN) - Wizkid
Add your choice of marinated beef, chicken or lamb between the colorful vegetables.
Some people prefer to cook the meat and vegetables separately to ensure everything is cooked evenly. If you’re using this method, it might make sense to cook first and assemble the kabob later.
Other common ingredients include pineapple, peppers, zucchini, squash, garlic cloves and seafood.
4. Macaroni or Potato Salad
No 4th of July meal is complete without the macaroni salad or potato salad (or both!).
For macaroni salad, mix your cooked elbow macaroni with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Add diced peppers, celery and grapes for color.
@dinnerin321 #macaroni #july4th #salad #delicious ♬ Get Down On It - Kool & The Gang
Potato salad is made in a similar way, but with diced potatoes instead of elbow macaroni.
This side dish goes perfectly with just about any entree you make, whether it be hot dogs, sausages, steak, hamburgers, ribs, pulled pork or anything else getting barbecued on the grill.
Plus, you can save any leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days after the 4th of July weekend.
3. Classic Coleslaw
Aside from macaroni and potato salad, coleslaw is a classic favorite for 4th of July.
Toss shredded green and red cabbage into a tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed that brings everything together.
Add thinly sliced red onion and shredded carrots for additional color depth, and consider incorporating dried cranberries for bursts of red throughout.
@cooking_comedy_chaos Firecracker Coleslaw is one of ny favorite sides to make for Bbq’s! Its sweet, spicy, tangy and crunchy, whats more perfect than that?!?! This recipe comes together in under 10 minutes and you’ll be craving it like crazy! #recipe #cooking #coleslaw #4thofjuly #funny #mayo #bbq ♬ original sound - C3 - Desarae
The key is balancing the creamy richness of the mayo with the tangy acidity of the vinegar and subtle sweetness of the sugar.
For best results, let your coleslaw sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour to give all the flavors time to mold together. Give it a good stir before serving, and taste for seasoning adjustments.
2. Beer Brats
To add a little German flare to this 4th of July, consider making some beer brats!
Start by simmering your bratwurst in a mixture of your favorite American beer, sliced onions, and bell peppers until they're partially cooked and infused with flavor.
Transfer the brats to a hot grill to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while the beer-braised interior remains juicy and flavorful.
@thegrilldads Grilled Brats with Beer Cheese #grilled #brats #beer #beercheese #4thofjuly #independenceday ♬ Made 4 - Vincent Mason
As always, serve on toasted buns and top the brat with grilled peppers and onions. Traditional condiments like mustard, ketchup and relish help add even more flavor.
The beer not only adds incredible flavor but also represents the time-honored American tradition of pairing great beer with great grilling, making these brats perfect for a 4th of July feast.
1. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob makes the perfect side dish for just about any 4th of July meal.
For the corn, you have two main preparation options. The first is to peel back the husks without removing them completely, pull out all the silk strands, then tie the husks back up before adding to the grill.
The second method is to completely remove the husks and silk, then wrap each ear in aluminum foil with a pat of butter, salt, and pepper.
@britscookin Cajun Honey Butter Corn 🌽🔥This one is perfect for your 4th of July cookout or any summer BBQ! 🇺🇸 You’ll need: • 10-12 ears of corn, shucked (leave the stems on if you can) • ½ cup butter • 2 tbsp minced garlic • 2 tbsp honey • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (I used my Britscookin blend) • A couple dashes of mild jalapeño hot sauce Instructions: 1. Grill corn over hot coals for 10–15 minutes, turning every few minutes to get a good char. 2. In a cast-iron skillet on the grill, melt together the butter, garlic, honey, Cajun seasoning, and hot sauce. 3. Brush the butter mixture all over the corn as it grills. Keep flipping and basting until the corn is tender and golden. 4. Serve it up hot—we had it with steak, smashed potatoes, and fresh veggies from the garden. Brush the remaining butter on some grilled bread! YUM #easyrecipe #grilling #4thofjuly #creatorsearchinsights ♬ A Million Colors - Vinih Pray
Beware: removing the husks completely will result in a more charred corn on the cob.
You'll know it's ready when the kernels are tender and have developed some beautiful golden-brown char marks. The kernels should be bright yellow and slightly caramelized in spots.
For serving, brush the hot corn with additional melted butter and sprinkle it with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you enjoy — paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs work wonderfully.
4th of July desserts to end on a sweet note
4th of July desserts are essentially the grand finale of any fireworks display.
These final courses should provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty, smoky flavors of grilled entrees while celebrating America's love affair with indulgent treats.
Of course, the best 4th of July desserts balance nostalgia with creativity.
Fresh berry desserts naturally shine during this season, such as strawberry shortcake and mixed berry pies, while frozen treats offer welcome relief from summer heat and (for some of us) humidity.
Before the fireworks begin, win your guests over with these memorable and delicious 4th of July desserts!
5. American Pie
It’s not a 4th of July celebration without at least one pie — though more are welcome!
For classic apple pie, combine tart Granny Smith apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon in a flaky, buttery crust that represents generations of American baking tradition.
Cherry pie brings vibrant red color with sweet-tart cherries that burst with flavor, while blueberry pie offers deep purple-blue hues that complement the patriotic theme.
@victoria.abigayle Celebrating 4th of July with an American Pie 🇺🇸 so yummy and tastes amazing. You can use store bought crust or look up a homemade recipe like I did. I made this an hour ago and it’s already half gone. Comment America and I’ll send you the recipe
♬ original sound - Tori
You can up your pie game with a red, white and blue option that features vanilla cream with blueberry reduction and fresh strawberries — almost like a three-in-one pie!
Other pies that work well as 4th of July desserts include key lime pie, boston cream pie and peach pie.
4. American Flag Cake
There are so many ways to give your cake a 4th of July makeover.
The easiest way is to make your favorite type of cake in a rectangular pan and start with a white frosting base before decorating an American flag on top with red and blue frosting and star-shaped cut outs.
Alternatively, you can create a flag-filled surprise by baking red velvet and vanilla cake batters in alternating layers, with a blue-tinted section that reveals the pattern when sliced.
@foodnetwork fourth of july mood board: ina garten’s flag cake 🍓🇺🇸
♬ original sound - Food Network
It makes the perfect centerpiece during dinner and an even better dessert when plates are empty.
You can also pair the cake with ice cream, such as strawberry (for red), vanilla (for white) and blueberry (for blue). Whipped cream and fresh fruit can help add some color to this dessert.
3. Red, White, Blue Crispy Rice Treats
Let’s elevate one of America’s beloved childhood favorites into a patriotic confection.
Create three separate batches (red, original and blue) using the classic combination of butter, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies cereal, but add food coloring to achieve your patriotic palette.
Add each color to a pan one at a time with blue on the bottom, white in the middle and red on top.
@fantabulosity 🎆 These Red, White & Blue Rice Krispie Treats are a festive, no-bake favorite! Easy to layer, fun to cut into stars ⭐, and perfect for your 4th of July party table! 🇺🇸 ✨ RECIPE: ▢¾ cup butter divided ▢15 cups mini marshmallows ▢12 cups crispy rice cereal divided (I used Rice Krispies) ▢1½ teaspoons clear vanilla extract divided ▢red & blue food coloring (8-9 red drops, 6 blue) Instructions Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. Spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray. In a large pot, start to melt ¼ cup butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add 5 cups of the mini marshmallows to the butter, stirring often. Once the marshmallows are almost melted, turn the heat to low. Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla and the red food coloring, a few drops at a time, and mix well. If needed, continue to add food coloring until desired color. Remove from heat. Mix in 4 cups of the cereal. Stir until the cereal is well coated. Pour into the parchment lined pan. Spread evenly while pressing down firmly, and smooth the top using the back of a buttered spoon. Repeat the same process, leaving this second batch white. Pour the white batch on top of the red layer. Press down and smooth evenly. Repeat the process one last time with the blue food coloring. Place on top of the white layer. Press firmly and smooth out the top layer. Allow to cool completely at room temperature (will take about an hour). Remove the treats from the pan, using a knife to cut around the edges if needed. Peel off the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Cut the treats into star shapes using a cookie cutter. If the cutter isn’t deep enough to completely reach the bottom of the pan, create an indentation with the cutter to use as a stencil, and then cut it out completely using a knife. Be sure to spray your cookie cutter and/or knife with cooking spray so the Rice Krispie doesn't stick to them. Serve & enjoy! 📌 For more tips, tricks, and step-by-step photos — head to Fantabulosity.com 👉 https://fantabulosity.com/4th-of-july-rice-krispie-treats/ #4thofjulyTreats #ricekrispietreats#ricekrispietreats#nobaked#nobakedessertsyrecipes #fantabulosity#fantabulosity#kidfriendlyrecipes #patrioticdessert #cookietok ♬ original sound - teeharpo
Alternatively, you can purchase the “Red & Blue Color Mix” Rice Krispies box and make your treats as you normally would. The red, white and blue would be mixed together, as opposed to different layers.
You can also make three different batches (one for each color) and arrange them in the shape of an American flag for more of a centerpiece design.
2. Strawberry Shortcake
You can never go wrong with strawberry shortcake at a 4th of July celebration.
Begin with old-fashioned buttermilk biscuits that are golden on the outside and fluffy within, made with real butter and just a touch of sugar.
Prepare the strawberries by slicing them and tossing with sugar, allowing them to macerate until they release their natural juices and create a beautiful, ruby-red syrup.
@abbie92494 Strawberry Shortcake 🍰🍓#4thofjuly #4thofjulyfood #4thofjulyparty #partyfood #summerfood #foodideas #4thofjulypartyfood#easyrecipes ♬ 原聲 - abbie!!
Whip heavy cream with vanilla extract and a hint of sugar until it forms soft, cloud-like peaks.
To assemble this classic dessert, split the warm biscuits in half and layer with the sugared strawberries and their sweet juices, then crown with generous dollops of fresh whipped cream.
1. S’more Cookies
If you’re planning on having a campfire or bonfire, don’t forget the S’more cookies!
Start with the cookie base by creaming together softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, finely crushed graham crackers, baking soda and salt.
@allisonbenderrr One of my fav cookie recipes! Definitely one you need to try this weekend 🎆🍪 #smorescookies #4thofjuly #baking #smores #chocolatechipcookies ♬ August official instrumental - Dan Swift Del Rey
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined, then fold in chopped milk chocolate (chunks work better than chips) and mini marshmallows.
Scoop the dough into large portions and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly golden but the centers still look slightly underdone.
You can top with additional marshmallows and Hershey’s chocolate for the classic S’mores look!
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From all of us here at Mod Moms Club, we hope your Independence Day is filled with delicious food, great company, and even better memories that last long after the fireworks fade.
