4th of July Menu Ideas

4th of July Menu Ideas are something I like to plan ahead of time. If you are looking for easy, make ahead recipes for your 4th of July BBQ then you have come to the right place.

Since the 4th of July is my husband’s favorite holiday, I like to go all out on the food. I also try to plan ahead, as best as I can, so that I can enjoy the holiday, and not be in the kitchen all day. All of the recipes I am linking are my tried and true, sure to win over a crowd, all time favorites.

Dessert

First of all, I will be starting with dessert because let’s face it, I have a sweet tooth. Plus, this first recipe is my family’s go-to, show stopper, fight your momma for the last piece (literally). Drumroll please… you guessed it… Fruit Pizza. The best part of Fruit Pizza is you can make it red, white, and blue. Which is what makes it a perfect 4th of July Menu Idea. I have made mine patriotic by adding blueberries. My family could care less about the blueberries, so we will likely just be having Strawberry Fruit Pizza.

But now it’s time for the hard part… do you want Mini Cookie Fruit Pizza’s, or Jumbo Sheet Pan Fruit Pizza’s? Personally, if you have a big crowd I would opt for the jumbo, but both are wonderful options.

Since I love my sweets so much I will throw in a second dessert option for good measure. Another perfect dessert for a crowd is Peanut Butter Snickers Apple Salad. This recipe is also great to make ahead of time because the longer it sits the better it gets.

I don’t know about you, but by the time the 4th of July heat rolls around I am only interested in cold desserts. So whip up this easy Snickers Apple Salad, pop it in the refrigerator, and it will be perfectly chilled when your guests arrive.

Appetizers

My first appetizer is a hands down crowd favorite, and is a must have for any get together. Of course you have to have some kind of chips and dip..but what kind? Chips and Salsa, of course! My Salsa recipe is super easy, and can be made way in advance, meaning it is one less thing on your list for the big day. And who doesn’t love chips and salsa??

For my second Appetizer, we have to spice things up a bit. My Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos are the perfect spicy appetizer, and they taste so good cooked on the grill.

These are a make-ahead dish that you can prep ahead of time. They can also be put in the freezer, and cooked the day of your party, if you want to get way ahead of the game.

Side Dishes

For side dishes, I have two veggie options that will make your mouth water. The first is one of the most popular recipes on my blog, Lemon Pepper Carrots. You can make these in the oven to save room on the grill, or you could pop them in some tin foil, and cook them right on the BBQ. They are so quick and easy, not to mention super yummy.

The next side dish is one of my all time favorites. I am a huge fan of squash, and my Garlic Parmesan Summer Squash is always such a hit.

I usually pop my Squash in the air fryer, but again, this would taste so good cooked on the grill. Just make sure you cook some a little extra golden brown. The crispy ones always taste the best.

Main Course

This main course is so tender and juicy. Believe me, it will not last long, so be sure to make plenty. My BBQ Chicken recipe is so delicious with a gooey sauce, and crispy edges. Plus, It tastes as good in the oven, as it does on the grill.

With Just 5 easy ingredients this BBQ Chicken will knock your socks off. And make sure you follow my tip for easy clean up. No one wants to spend the 4th of July doing dishes!

I hope your family has a wonderful holiday, and makes good use of my 4th of July Menu Ideas! I pray everyone leaves with full hearts, and even <fuller> bellies. 😉 If you use any of these recipes, make sure to tag me on Instagram. I love to see your pictures! And make sure to follow along with The Four Acre Farm for more Easy Recipes, Gardening Tips, & Budget Friendly DIY.