15 Memorial Day Recipes Using 5 Ingredients or Less

Struggling to find Memorial Day recipes that are simple yet delicious? 

Traditional recipes often require lengthy shopping lists and complicated steps, leaving you stressed and short on time.

 The thought of juggling multiple ingredients and intricate preparation can make even the most enthusiastic cook dread spending their holiday in the kitchen. 

What if you could create flavorful dishes with minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients? 

This list of 15 Memorial Day recipes using 5 ingredients or less is your key to a stress-free celebration where you spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time slaving away in the kitchen.

🔥 3-Ingredient BBQ Sauce That Outshines Store-Bought

Skip the Cans and Whip It Up in Minutes

Combine equal parts ketchup, brown sugar, and your favorite vinegar (like apple cider or white wine). Mix well and simmer for 10 minutes. This homemade sauce adds a smoky-sweet depth to grilled meats without the artificial additives.

Pro Tip: Double the batch and freeze half for future use.

🍨 No-Churn Ice Cream with Just 4 Ingredients

Indulge Without the Complicated Machines

Mix softened cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Fold in your favorite mix-ins like berries or chocolate chips. Pour into a loaf pan and freeze for 4-6 hours. This creamy treat requires no special equipment and is ready when you are.

Idea: Use fresh seasonal berries for the best flavor and color.

🥦 Grilled Veggie Packs with Minimal Prep

Easy Sides That Highlight Summer Produce

Toss asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil and your choice of herbs. Grill in foil packs for 10-15 minutes. The veggies stay tender and slightly charred for a healthy, flavorful side.

Hack: Pre-chop veggies the night before to save even more time.

🍗 Lemon-Herb Chicken Thighs with Just 5 Ingredients

Taste That Will Have Guests Asking for Seconds

Marinate chicken thighs in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dried herbs. Grill or bake for 25-30 minutes. The acidity from the lemon brightens the dish and requires just a few pantry staples.

Tip: Use leftover marinade as a sauce by heating it separately.

🥗 Caprese Salad with 4 Simple Ingredients

Elegant and Effortless

Layer fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This classic Italian salad comes together in minutes and is perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

Pro Tip: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best sweetness.

🥪 Mini Meatball Subs with Store-Bought Convenience

Quick and Satisfying Crowd-Pleaser

Combine frozen meatballs with marinara sauce and simmer until heated through. Serve in small sub rolls with shredded cheese on the side. These subs are perfect for a crowd and require minimal prep.

Hack: Use pre-shredded cheese to save time.

🥣 Mason Jar Parfaits for Easy Breakfast

Make-Ahead Breakfast That’s Pretty and Practical

Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh berries in mason jars. Add a drizzle of honey and store in the fridge overnight. These parfaits are perfect for a quick morning meal and look impressive too.

Idea: Let guests build their own with a topping bar.

🍗 Zesty Lime Chicken Skewers

Bright and Bold Flavors

Marinate chicken cubes in lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, and cumin. Grill until cooked through. The lime adds a refreshing zing that’s perfect for summer.

Tip: Use wooden skewers and soak them beforehand to prevent burning.

🥤 3-Ingredient Fruit Punch

Refreshing Drink That’s Kid and Adult Approved

Mix equal parts lemon-lime soda, orange juice, and cranberry juice. Add frozen berries for a festive touch and extra flavor. This punch is perfect for a crowd and can be made in large batches.

Hack: Freeze some of the juice into ice cubes to keep the punch cold without diluting it.

🍪 4-Ingredient Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Easy Dessert That Feels Fancy

Melt chocolate chips and dip fresh strawberries. Sprinkle with sea salt or crushed nuts for extra texture. Chill until set. This dessert is simple but looks incredibly impressive.

Pro Tip: Use dark chocolate for a healthier option with fewer calories.

🥘 5-Ingredient Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creamy and Flavorful Side Dish

Combine canned corn, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Add a splash of milk for extra creaminess. Serve in corn husks for a fun presentation.

Idea: Use frozen corn for convenience.

🍧 3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream

Healthy Dessert That’s Almost Too Easy

Blend frozen bananas with a splash of milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra crunch. Freeze for 30 minutes before serving.

Hack: Freeze bananas whole ahead of time for a quicker blend.

🥖 4-Ingredient Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bites

Elegant Appetizer That’s Ready in Minutes

Spread cream cheese on small pieces of cucumber or toast. Top with smoked salmon and a sprinkle of dill. These bites are perfect for a crowd and can be prepped entirely ahead of time.

Pro Tip: Use everything bagel seasoning on the cucumber for extra flavor.

🍗 5-Ingredient BBQ Tofu Skewers

Meaty Texture Without the Meat

Marinate tofu cubes in BBQ sauce and liquid smoke. Grill until slightly crispy. Serve with your favorite coleslaw or rice. These skewers are a hit with vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Hack: Press tofu beforehand for best results.

🥤 3-Ingredient Spiked Lemonade

Adult Drink That’s Simple and Refreshing

Mix lemonade, vodka, and a splash of cranberry juice. Add fresh lemon slices for garnish. This cocktail is light, refreshing, and can be made in large batches for easy serving.

Idea: Use a reusable pitcher to minimize waste.

🎉 Memorial Day should be a time of celebration and relaxation, not a stressful marathon in the kitchen. 

These 15 recipes using 5 ingredients or less prove that simple doesn’t have to mean boring. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a quick meal, these dishes will save you time and effort while delivering big on flavor. 

Pick 3-4 recipes to try this holiday and reclaim your time! Share your favorite Memorial Day recipe in the comments below and tag us in your photos. Let’s make this holiday deliciously effortless!