Hello Reader!

Summer is officially in full swing and that means one thing in our house — we're spending a ton of time in the pool... and the grill is on pretty much every evening.

Whether you're hosting a big backyard bash, keeping it low-key with your favorite people or just looking for an excuse to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors, I've got everything you need to make it delicious. This year, let's go all out.

I'm talking crowd-pleasing mains, fun twists on classic burgers and the sides that'll have everyone hovering around the table.

Here's your full July 4th cookout menu:

Grill-Ready Mains

Grilled Skirt Steak

Skirt steak is one of the most flavorful cuts you can throw on the grill — and one of the fastest. It soaks up a marinade beautifully and cooks in minutes, which makes it perfect for feeding a crowd without spending all day outside.

Grilled BBQ Chicken Flatbread

This one is made for sharing. Smoky grilled chicken, tangy barbecue sauce and all your favorite toppings on a crispy flatbread. It's a fun, unexpected alternative to the usual cookout spread.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Quick, easy and always a hit, these shrimp skewers come together fast and look impressive on the table. Throw them on the grill right before you're ready to eat and watch them disappear.

⭐ Need more inspiration? Need more inspiration? I've rounded up 20 of my favorite July 4th grilling recipes all in one place — mains, sides and everything in between. Consider this your one-stop cookout planning guide. see all 20 recipes →

Burgers: Because It's Summer

Cheeseburger Kebabs

Listen. Who doesn't love the flavors of a burger but on a skewer? These kebabs are so cute, super fun and easy to customize to your tastebuds.

Baked BBQ Turkey Burgers

No grill? No problem. These smoky, saucy turkey burgers come together in the oven and are just as satisfying as anything you'd make outside.

Spinach and Feta Burgers

A little unexpected, a lot delicious. The spinach and feta give these burgers a Mediterranean twist that makes them stand out from your average cookout fare.

Shareable Sides for Cookouts

No-Mayo Honey Mustard Coleslaw

Light and tangy with a little sweetness, this slaw is the one for people who think they don't like coleslaw. No mayo means it travels well and holds up in the heat.

Classic Potato Salad

Some things are classic for a reason. This is always the first bowl to empty at any cookout.

Instant Pot BBQ Baked Beans

Smoky, sweet and a little spicy, these baked beans come together in the Instant Pot, which means less time babysitting the stove and more time with your people. A cookout non-negotiable.

Mac and Cheese

Because no cookout is complete without it. This recipe is creamy and delightfully cheesy. And it'll make most everyone, including (and especially) the kids — happy.

Slow Cooker Baked Beans

If you're looking for some baked beans that are of a "set it and let it go" variety, this is the recipe for you! The prepwork is light, and the slow cooker does the work for you!

Happy cooking,
Erin

Howdy! I'm Erin. At The Speckled Palate, you'll find easy recipes and drinks that call for simple, fresh ingredients that hopefully inspire you to invite your people into your home for super low-key gatherings. Buy me a cup of coffee. take me to the blog

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