From Memorial Day cookouts to Fourth of July blowouts and laid-back Labor Day picnics, summer is packed with opportunities to eat, drink, and celebrate. If you’re looking to add bold flavors and festive flair to your holiday spread, this roundup has you covered from apps to dessert.
Whether you’re hosting the whole neighborhood or keeping it casual with close friends, these crowd-pleasing recipes are fun, flavorful, and totally patriotic.
Crescent Roll Pigs in a Blanket
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These bite-sized pigs in a blanket wrapped in buttery crescent rolls are a nostalgic favorite that’s always the first to disappear. They’re easy to make, easy to eat, and perfect for kids and adults alike.
GET THIS RECIPE: Crescent Roll Pigs in a Blanket
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Spicy, cheesy, and wrapped in crispy bacon—these jalapeño poppers deliver a flavor explosion with every bite. Using the air fryer keeps them quick and mess-free, ideal for summer entertaining.
GET THIS RECIPE: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Baked Buffalo Wings
No fryer? No problem. These baked buffalo wings come out perfectly crispy and coated in a classic, spicy sauce. They’re an all-American game-day staple that also works for summer parties.
GET THIS RECIPE: Baked Buffalo Wings
Buffalo Chicken Dip
This creamy, spicy dip captures everything you love about buffalo wings—minus the mess. Serve it with chips, celery sticks, or toasted bread for a craveable starter everyone will love.
GET THIS RECIPE: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Dip
All the flavor of a juicy cheeseburger in dip form—yes, please. This hearty slow cooker recipe is easy to make ahead and serve warm, making it a star at any patriotic party.
GET THIS RECIPE: Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Dip
Sheet Pan Loaded Nachos
Loaded with ground beef, spicy sausage, and plenty of cheese, these nachos are a festive finger food that feeds a crowd. Perfect for backyard BBQs or fireworks viewing parties.
GET THIS RECIPE: Sheet Pan Loaded Nachos
Slow Cooker Cocktail Sausages
Sweet, spicy, and irresistibly sticky, these slow cooker sausages make a delicious party snack or casual main dish. They stay warm throughout your celebration and only get better with time.
GET THIS RECIPE: Slow Cooker Cocktail Sausages
Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork
This slow cooker pulled pork is rich, tender, and subtly sweet thanks to the Dr Pepper base. It’s a no-fuss main course that’s perfect for feeding a patriotic crowd.
GET THIS RECIPE: Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork
Pub Burger
Fire up the grill for these juicy, beer-infused burgers topped with smoky bacon. They’re a backyard BBQ essential with big flavor and undeniable summer vibes.
GET THIS RECIPE: Pub Burger
Frito Chili Pie
This classic comfort food gets a patriotic twist when served in individual bags or bowls for a fun, customizable experience. Crunchy, cheesy, and full of chili goodness.
GET THIS RECIPE: Frito Chili Pie
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Creamy, tangy, and packed with buffalo chicken flavor, this pasta salad is a fun side dish with just the right amount of kick. Great for potlucks and summer cookouts.
GET THIS RECIPE: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
This cool and creamy salad is packed with crispy bacon, tender pasta, and a zesty ranch dressing. It’s the kind of easygoing side that works with everything from burgers to wings.
GET THIS RECIPE: Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Patriotic Layered Jello
Bring on the red, white, and blue with this fun and festive layered jello. It’s a visually stunning treat that’s refreshing, nostalgic, and perfect for summer holidays.
GET THIS RECIPE: Patriotic Layered Jello
Patriotic Brownie Mix Cookies
These chewy, chocolatey cookies get a festive upgrade with red, white, and blue sprinkles. They start with a brownie mix, making them as easy as they are irresistible.
GET THIS RECIPE: Patriotic Brownie Mix Cookies
Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treat Flags
Classic Rice Krispie treats get a patriotic makeover with a dip in white chocolate and colorful decorations. Fun for kids to help make—and even more fun to eat.
GET THIS RECIPE: Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treat Flags
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Meet Christina
Hi there, it’s nice to meet you! I’m a recipe developer, author, TV contributor and recipe hoarder that shares tried and true recipes anyone can make. It Is a Keeper started in 2010 as a hobby that quickly grew. Spending time in the kitchen has always made me happy – whether I’m making an old favorite that I know by heart or trying a new recipe. You can learn more about me here.