Meal Prep Monday: 4th of July Feast

Meal Prep Monday: 4th of July Feast

Hey there! The 4th of July is all about celebrating, hanging out with family, and enjoying some seriously tasty food. I mean, what better way to honor Independence Day than with an epic feast, right? Well, guess what? We've got your back! In this week's Meal Prep Monday, we've put together a collection of mouthwatering recipes that will take your 4th of July celebration to the next level. We're talking about juicy main courses, irresistible desserts, and refreshing drinks that will keep you cool in the summer heat. Spread it out over the week or make enough for a party and enjoy the leftovers, it's up to you. So, get that grill fired up, call your loved ones, and prepare to treat your taste buds to some seriously delicious creations. Let's make this 4th of July one for the books!



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Main Courses

Classic Grilled Burgers

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well.
  2. Shape the mixture into patties of desired size.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the burgers for about 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked to your desired doneness.
  5. Serve the burgers on buns with your favorite toppings and condiments.

Grilled Hot Dogs

Ingredients:

  • 8 hot dog buns
  • 8 beef hot dogs
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup pickle relish
  • Mustard, ketchup, and other desired toppings

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Grill the hot dogs for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and have grill marks.
  3. Place the grilled hot dogs in the buns.
  4. Top with diced onions, tomatoes, pickle relish, and any other desired toppings.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers.
  5. Grill the shrimp skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque.
  6. Remove from the grill and serve hot.

Grilled Ribs

Ingredients:

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Barbecue sauce (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to make a rub.
  2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs, if desired.
  3. Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat both sides.
  4. Preheat the grill to low heat and set it up for indirect grilling.
  5. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down, away from direct heat.
  6. Cover the grill and cook the ribs for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bones.
  7. If desired, brush the ribs with barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  8. Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
  9. Cut the ribs into individual portions and serve hot.

Side Dishes

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 large russet potatoes, baked and cooled
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Peel and dice the baked potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the diced potatoes to the bowl and gently toss until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Before serving, garnish with additional bacon and green onions, if desired.
  6. Enjoy the creamy and flavorful loaded baked potato salad!

Hushpuppies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeno pepper (optional)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, chopped onion, chopped jalapeno pepper (if using), and beaten egg.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to about 350°F (175°C).
  5. Drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. Fry the hushpuppies for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Remove the hushpuppies from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  8. Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter.
  9. Serve the hushpuppies warm as a delightful side dish or snack.

Southern Cornbread

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan or cast-iron skillet.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using).
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan or skillet.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
  8. Enjoy the warm and comforting Southern cornbread with your meal!

Broccoli Slaw

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups shredded broccoli slaw mix
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Add the shredded broccoli slaw mix, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds to the bowl.
  3. Toss the ingredients together until the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Before serving, give the slaw a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  6. Enjoy the crunchy and refreshing broccoli slaw as a delicious side dish!

Easy Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Italian dressing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
  3. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well coated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Ingredients:

  • 6 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • Paprika, for garnish
  • Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Peel the hard-boiled eggs and cut them in half lengthwise.
  2. Gently remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.
  3. Mash the yolks with a fork until they are crumbly.
  4. Add the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the mashed yolks.
  5. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
  6. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
  7. Sprinkle with paprika and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
  8. Chill the deviled eggs in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  9. Enjoy the creamy and flavorful deviled eggs!

Macaroni Salad

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add the cooked macaroni, diced red bell pepper, diced celery, diced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley to the bowl with the dressing.
  4. Toss everything together until well coated.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Before serving, give the macaroni salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  7. Enjoy the creamy and tangy macaroni salad!

Corn Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using).
  3. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss until well coated.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Give the corn salad a final toss before serving.
  6. Enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of the corn salad!

Patriotic Potato Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups red potatoes, boiled and cubed
  • 2 cups white potatoes, boiled and cubed
  • 2 cups purple potatoes, boiled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup diced celery
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the boiled and cubed red potatoes, white potatoes, and purple potatoes.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh dill, chopped fresh chives, diced red onion, diced celery, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and toss until well coated.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Give the patriotic potato salad a final toss before serving.
  6. Enjoy the colorful and delicious potato salad!

Red, White, and Blue Chip Dip

Ingredients:

  • For the red dip (Salsa):
    • 1 cup diced tomatoes
    • 1/4 cup diced red onion
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
    • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • For the white dip (Creamy Dip):
    • 1 cup sour cream
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Blue corn tortilla chips

Instructions:

  1. For the red dip (Salsa):
    • In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, diced jalapeno pepper, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, and salt.
    • Stir well to combine.
    • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  2. For the white dip (Creamy Dip):
    • In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Stir well until smooth and creamy.
    • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  3. Arrange the blue corn tortilla chips on a serving platter.
  4. Serve the red dip (Salsa) and white dip (Creamy Dip) alongside the blue corn tortilla chips.
  5. Enjoy the festive and flavorful red, white, and blue chip dip!

Slow Cooker Baked Beans

Ingredients:

  • 8 slices bacon, halved
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1/2 medium green pepper, chopped
  • 3 (28-oz.) cans pork and beans
  • 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup distilled or cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons dry mustard or 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Directions:

  1. In a large skillet, fry the bacon until partially cooked and it releases about 1/4 cup of drippings. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and green pepper until tender, around 5 minutes.
  3. Transfer the bacon, onion, and green pepper to a slow cooker.
  4. Add the pork and beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the flavors meld together and the beans are tender.
  6. Stir the baked beans occasionally during cooking.
  7. Once the beans are cooked to your desired consistency, serve them hot and enjoy!

Note: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so adjust accordingly. Feel free to add more barbecue sauce or seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Classic Desserts

Peach Cobbler

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups peeled, pitted, and sliced peaches
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss to coat the peaches.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
  4. Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
  5. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  6. Evenly distribute the sliced peaches over the batter.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cobbler is golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  9. Serve the peach cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
  10. Enjoy the warm and comforting peach cobbler!

Red, White, and Blue Trifle

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound cake, cut into cubes
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries
  • 2 cups stabilized whipped cream or whipped topping
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the whipped cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
  2. Arrange half of the pound cake cubes in the bottom of a trifle dish or a clear glass bowl.
  3. Top the pound cake with a layer of sliced strawberries and a layer of blueberries.
  4. Spoon half of the whipped cream over the berries.
  5. Repeat the layers with the remaining pound cake, berries, and whipped cream.
  6. Finish the trifle with a final layer of whipped cream and a few berries on top for garnish.
  7. Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together and the cake to soften.
  8. Serve the red, white, and blue trifle chilled.
  9. Enjoy the festive and delightful trifle!

Grandma's Blue Ribbon Apple Pie

Ingredients:

  • 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
  • 6 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced Granny Smith apples
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour, being careful not to form large clumps, and whisk into a pasta. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add both sugars and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer 5 minutes to thicken and remove from heat.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, ground cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
  5. Press pie crust into bottom of a 9 inch pie pan. Roll out second crust an cut into 8 strips.
  6. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared pie crust, mounding it slightly in the center.
  7. Using the cut strips of crust, make a lattice top to the pie. Pinch the edges of the top crust with the bottom crust to seal.
  8. Slowly pour the sugar-butter mixture from the saucepan over the lattice crust, making sure it has time to seep down into the apples. Take care that it doesn't run off the sides. Brush any bare parts of the lattice with the micture.
  9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
  10. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
  11. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack an hour before serving. This will allow the filling to set up.
  12. Slice and serve Grandma's blue ribbon apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
  13. Enjoy the classic and timeless apple pie!

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons hot water
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 355°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Dissolve baking soda in hot water. Add to batter along with salt.
  6. Fold in flour, chocolate chips, and nuts (if using).
  7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
  9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes.
  10. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
  11. Serve the classic chocolate chip cookies and enjoy them with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.

Refreshing Beverages

Muddled Berry Lemonade

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup simple syrup (1:1 ratio of sugar and water, dissolved together)
  • 2 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes
  • Additional berries and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, muddle the mixed berries and mint leaves together until well crushed and fragrant.
  2. Add the lemon juice and simple syrup to the muddled mixture and stir to combine.
  3. Fill a pitcher with cold water and pour the berry mixture into the pitcher.
  4. Stir well to incorporate the flavors.
  5. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the muddled berry lemonade over the ice.
  6. Garnish with additional berries and mint leaves.
  7. Enjoy the refreshing and fruity muddled berry lemonade!

Red, White, and Blue Layered Drink

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cranberry juice
  • 2 cups blue sports drink or blueberry-flavored drink
  • 2 cups lemon-lime soda
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. In a tall glass, fill one-third of the glass with cranberry juice.
  2. Place a few ice cubes on top of the cranberry juice layer.
  3. Slowly pour the blue sports drink or blueberry-flavored drink over the ice, filling another one-third of the glass.
  4. Add more ice cubes on top of the blue layer.
  5. Finally, pour the lemon-lime soda over the ice to fill the remaining one-third of the glass.
  6. Garnish with a straw and enjoy the patriotic red, white, and blue layered drink!

Watermelon Agua Fresca

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
  • 2 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, puree the cubed watermelon until smooth.
  2. Strain the watermelon puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove any pulp or seeds.
  3. Add the fresh lime juice and honey or agave syrup to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
  4. Add cold water to the pitcher and stir again.
  5. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the watermelon agua fresca over the ice.
  6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
  7. Enjoy the refreshing and hydrating watermelon agua fresca!
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