21 Grill Recipes That Make Labor Day Weekend Feel Like Summer’s Last Hurrah

Labor Day weekend feels like the unofficial close of summer, making it the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and enjoy one last round of outdoor feasting. Whether you’re hosting a big backyard gathering or keeping it simple with family, the right recipes can make the day memorable.

From smoky classics to fresh twists, grilling brings people together in a way that feels both relaxed and festive. These dishes are designed to capture the flavors we love most about summer of which are juicy meats, charred veggies, and plenty of crowd-pleasing favorites.

No matter your cooking style, there’s something here to help you make the most of the holiday weekend. Think of it as a guide to creating a table full of food that feels like summer’s final celebration.

Grilled BBQ Chicken

This dish is all about smoky flavor paired with a sweet and tangy glaze. The chicken cooks up juicy while the sauce caramelizes beautifully over the heat. Perfect for a weekend cookout, it’s a reliable favorite that brings everyone to the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Chicken

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Light yet filling, this bowl combines tender shrimp with hearty grains and fresh toppings. The char from the grill adds depth while the mix of textures keeps each bite interesting. It’s a balanced option that feels both refreshing and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Grilled Sausage & Peppers

This recipe brings together smoky sausage with vibrant peppers and onions. The combination delivers bold flavors with a touch of sweetness from the caramelized vegetables. Great for sandwiches or served on its own, it’s a simple but crowd-pleasing choice.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Grilled Sausage & Peppers

Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a savory-sweet sauce before hitting the grill. The skewers cook quickly and are easy to serve, making them ideal for gatherings. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions gives them a finishing touch.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

grilled chicken kofta kebab

These flavorful kebabs are seasoned with herbs and spices before being grilled to perfection. Their smoky char pairs well with cooling sauces or flatbreads. They’re a fun way to bring variety to your grilling lineup.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

This recipe combines juicy pork chops with a seafood twist. The grill locks in flavor while balancing richness from both land and sea. It’s a hearty, indulgent meal that feels special without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Lean yet tender, this cut absorbs marinades beautifully before grilling. It cooks quickly and slices into perfect portions for family meals. The result is flavorful pork with a slight smoky edge.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp seasoned with herbs, garlic, and lemon brings a fresh coastal flavor. The quick grill time makes it a convenient choice for weeknights. Served with salad or warm bread, it feels light and vibrant.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Porcupine Meatballs on the Grill

These meatballs mix ground meat with rice, giving them their classic “porcupine” look. Cooking them on the grill adds a smoky layer that sets them apart. They’re fun to serve and pair well with a simple sauce.
Get the Recipe: Porcupine Meatballs on the Grill

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

This recipe recreates the rich, tender beef tips many love from the restaurant. The meat cooks until melt-in-your-mouth soft, often paired with mushrooms and gravy. It’s a homestyle comfort dish made even better with a grill’s char.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Ninja Woodfire Grill Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts

Juicy chicken stays moist while wrapped in crisp, smoky bacon. The grill brings out a savory flavor that pairs well with vegetables or potatoes. It’s a hearty option that feels both rustic and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts

Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

These skewers balance heat and sweetness with every bite. The grill caramelizes the honey while the harissa provides a smoky spice. They’re bold in flavor and perfect for anyone who likes a kick.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

Ninja Woodfire Grill T-Bone Steaks

Thick T-bone steaks cook beautifully over high heat, giving you a charred crust and tender inside. The woodfire flavor makes the steak stand out without needing much more than salt and pepper. A true classic for steak lovers.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill T-Bone Steaks

Ultimate Grilled Pork Chops

These chops are thick, juicy, and cooked just right over the heat. The grill locks in flavor while creating those signature sear marks. Simple seasonings let the meat shine.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Grilled Pork Chops

Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Lamb chops take on aromatic flavors from herbs and garlic, enhanced by the grill. They cook quickly, resulting in tender meat with a smoky crust. A squeeze of lemon brightens the final dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard create a flavorful glaze. As the chicken grills, the sauce caramelizes and forms a sticky coating. It’s a great mix of sweet and savory in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Juicy steaks meet a buttery sauce packed with herbs and spices. The heat of the grill enhances the richness, making every bite bold and satisfying. It’s a restaurant-style dish you can enjoy at home.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Mild rockfish gets a smoky flavor from the grill before being tucked into tortillas. Fresh toppings like slaw or salsa keep it vibrant and balanced. A squeeze of lime ties everything together.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Juicy pork chops pair beautifully with sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. The contrast of smoky meat and bright fruit makes this dish refreshing. It’s a colorful option for summer meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

These chops are coated in a glaze that’s both tangy and slightly sweet. The grill caramelizes the glaze, giving each chop a glossy finish. The citrus flavor keeps it light and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Blackened Salmon

This recipe uses a spice blend that creates a flavorful crust on the salmon. Grilling adds a smoky depth while keeping the inside tender. It’s bold, quick to make, and perfect for a lighter meal.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Salmon