Labor Day is supposed to be a day off, so why does the cooking always turn into another shift? This year, skip the all-day smoke sessions. Most recipes on this list are ready in 30 minutes or less, use a short ingredient list, and still deliver backyard-BBQ flavor. Fire up the grill, pour a drink and actually enjoy your own cookout for once.
From grilled flank steak tacos to a no-cook banana pudding, this is the whole menu, minus the labor. Every recipe is grill-ready and built for a cook who’d rather be at the pool than standing over a smoker.
Mains in 30 Minutes or Less
No 3-2-1 method, no overnight brine, no babysitting a stall. These proteins hit the grill and come off in half an hour or less, so you can actually sit down before your guests show up.
Grilled Flank Steak Tacos
Juicy flank steak tacos start with the best flank steak marinade for tacos. Quick to grill, tender to slice, and loaded with toppings.
Grilled Skirt Steak Tacos
With this quick, simple marinade you can create grilled skirt steak tacos that taste just as good as the ones from your favorite taco truck.
The Best Grilled Shrimp on the Planet
What does it take to make the best-grilled shrimp on the planet? One secret ingredient, shrimp shells and about 15 minutes.
Grilled Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Grilled boneless skinless chicken thighs made easy. Just 4 ingredients and ready in minutes using a simple dry rub and butter baste.
Quick and Juicy Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Get a delicious, healthy dinner on the table in 30 minutes and only 4 ingredients with this easy grilled pork tenderloin recipe.
Grilled Salmon in Foil with Citrus and Herbs
Create a stunning seafood dinner in less than 30 minutes with this easy grilled salmon in foil with citrus and herbs.
Grilled Chicken Margherita
Grilled Chicken Margherita is one of those dishes that looks super elegant but can be made in just 30 minutes on your outdoor griddle.
Fast, Fuss-Free Sides
You don’t need a casserole dish or an hour in the oven. These sides come together while your protein is still on the grill.
Grilled Corn
Bring out the natural sweetness of corn by following this one simple step before you cook grilled corn on the cob.
Homemade Flour Tortillas with Beef Tallow
Making homemade flour tortillas is so easy with this tortilla recipe made with beef tallow. Because they’re fresh, the flavor is remarkable.
Classic Potato Salad
This is the last classic potato salad recipe you’ll ever need. It’s easy, made with potatoes you don’t have to peel, and is super creamy.
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon-Caper Vinaigrette
Ready in 15 minutes, grilled asparagus with lemon-caper vinaigrette is a side exquisite enough for a holiday, yet easy enough for a Monday.
Baked Beans
People always tell me these are the best baked beans they’ve ever had. They’re sweet, savory and meaty and so easy to make.
Quick Creamy Southern Cheese Grits
Looking for an easy, delicious side dish? Try this quick Southern cheese grits recipe. It’s so creamy and cheesy and great with any meal.
Dessert You Don’t Have to Babysit
Finish the weekend without turning on the oven for hours.
Banana Pudding
Every time I make this banana pudding recipe, people tell me it’s the best banana pudding they’ve ever tasted. And the recipe is so easy!
Peach Cobbler with Frozen Peaches
One bite of this peach cobbler made with frozen peaches and you’ll want to know what’s behind that crispy finish.
Fruit Pizza with Cheesecake and Puff Pastry
This fruit pizza stands out with its buttery puff pastry crust and rich cheesecake filling. It’s perfect for summer desserts or brunch.
Not sure where to start? Here’s how to think about it:
Feeding 10 or fewer: One quick main (tacos or the pork tenderloin), two sides and one dessert. You’ll be done cooking before your guests finish their first drink.
Feeding 10–20: Two mains (steak tacos + grilled chicken thighs), three sides and the banana pudding.
Feeding a crowd: Grill three proteins (steak, chicken, and shrimp) and let everyone build their own tacos. Prep is minimal, and you’re still eating on time. Want to add a quick appetizer to the menu? Whip up some grilled street corn dip.
