27 Memorial Day Mains That Still Get Requests

Some dishes don’t just feed a crowd—they get talked about afterward. These 27 mains keep showing up on Memorial Day because someone always asks for them again. They’re simple to prep, easy to serve, and built to stand out without taking all day. If you want a meal people remember, start here.

Grilled Greek lemon chicken kabobs with herbs and lemon slices. — Grilled Greek Lemon Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Panko Crusted Rockfish

Panko Crusted Rockfish takes 30 minutes and uses rockfish fillets, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings. The outside crisps up golden while the inside stays tender. It has a mild flavor with a crunchy texture that holds its own on the plate. It’s the kind of main that gets cleaned up quickly.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Rockfish

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

A plate with sliced pork topped with creamy mushroom sauce, a fork holding a piece above, and a wine bottle in the background. — Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy take 35 minutes and include bone-in pork chops, Dijon mustard, and shallots. The sauce is tangy and savory without being heavy, and the meat stays juicy and full of flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser without needing much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Shallot Gravy

Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast

Sliced breaded chicken on a wooden cutting board next to a serrated knife. — Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast takes 1 hour and uses boneless turkey breast, ground hazelnuts, and herbs. The crust is nutty and crisp with a savory finish. The inside is moist and cuts easily. It feels like a holiday meal that works any time.
Get the Recipe: Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon takes 30 minutes and combines salmon fillets with Indian spices on a cedar plank. The result is smoky, earthy, and slightly sweet. The fish flakes apart easily with a fork. It’s bold enough to remember.
Get the Recipe: Garam Masala Cedar Plank Salmon

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

A serving of pasta topped with a seared scallops and a sage brown butter sauce. — Brown Butter Scallop Pasta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta takes 35 minutes and features seared scallops, browned butter, and pasta. The scallops are tender with a hint of sweetness. The butter sauce adds richness without being too much. It’s a seafood dish that doesn’t get left behind.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

Closeup of a filet mignon with green sauce on a gray plate. — Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce takes 40 minutes and includes beef filet, fresh fruit, and herbs. The sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick. The steak is tender and full of flavor. It’s a dish that draws compliments without fail.
Get the Recipe: Filet Mignon with Peach Mango Cilantro Sauce

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus takes 30 minutes and uses salmon, asparagus, and fresh dill. The flavors are light, zesty, and balanced. The fish and vegetables roast together for minimal prep. It’s fresh but still feels like a main.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Salmon and Asparagus

20-Minute Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken with Charred Tomatoes and Avocado

Plate of basil pesto chicken with grilled tomatoes and avocado slices. — 20-Minute Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken with Charred Tomatoes and Avocado. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken takes 20 minutes with chicken breasts, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. The chicken grills quickly and picks up a ton of flavor. The toppings keep it bright and juicy. It’s fast but doesn’t taste rushed.
Get the Recipe: 20-Minute Grilled Basil Pesto Chicken with Charred Tomatoes and Avocado

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Pork chops with blackberry applesauce on a gray plate. — Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries takes 45 minutes and combines pork chops, apples, and fresh berries. The fruit adds sweet contrast to the savory meat. It’s simple but has unexpected flavor. It works for laid-back or dressed-up meals.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Applesauce with Blackberries

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled Rockfish Tacos take 25 minutes and use rockfish, tortillas, and a quick slaw. The fish is flaky and slightly smoky. The toppings keep it fresh and balanced. It’s a casual main that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Shrimp Asparagus Risotto takes 40 minutes and includes arborio rice, shrimp, and asparagus. The texture is creamy with a bit of bite from the vegetables. The seafood flavor stands out without being overpowering. It’s a warm, filling option that always gets noticed.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Asparagus Risotto

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

A serving of chicken pot pie with golden crust, diced chicken, peas, and potatoes on a black plate—an ideal choice for budget recipes and cheap meals. — Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy takes 1 hour and features chicken, vegetables, and a creamy tarragon sauce under flaky crust. The filling is comforting but fresh. The herb adds something different without being strong. It’s the dish people ask for again.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Buttermilk Brined Turkey

A buttermilk brined roasted surrounded by festive holiday side dishes. — Buttermilk Brined Turkey. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Buttermilk Brined Turkey takes 24 hours to brine and 2 hours to roast using turkey, buttermilk, and herbs. The meat turns out tender with a lightly tangy flavor. The skin crisps without drying out. It’s a centerpiece without needing a holiday.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Brined Turkey

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

A white plate with a serving of shredded meat topped with sauce and garnished with herbs, perfect for movie night snacks. A fork rests on top, and a blurred dish is in the background. — Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce takes 8 hours and uses pork shoulder, vinegar, and mustard. The meat falls apart with a fork. The sauce is tangy with a little heat. It’s built for feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder with Mustard BBQ Sauce

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Grilled pork pieces with brown gravy served on a bed of mashed potatoes, presented on a decorative plate with a colorful floral pattern. A meal even the most picky eaters will enjoy, making moms' lives easier at dinnertime. — Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes takes 1 hour and includes pork tenderloin, potatoes, and herbs. The flavors are savory and simple. The meat roasts evenly while the potatoes soak everything in. It’s one pan, big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet takes 35 minutes and uses chicken, balsamic vinegar, and cream. The sauce is rich but balanced. The chicken stays juicy and sears well. It’s a stove-top option that feels like oven effort.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish. — Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice takes 40 minutes with chicken thighs, rice, and fresh lime. The dish is bright, herby, and filling. The chicken turns crisp and flavorful. It’s easy to prep but tastes layered.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

Lamb Shepherd’s Pie takes 1 hour and features ground lamb, vegetables, and mashed potatoes. The base is hearty and savory. The topping turns golden and slightly crisp. It’s a comfort dish that earns seconds.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables takes 1 hour and includes chicken thighs, root vegetables, and garlic. Everything roasts together on one tray. The result is juicy chicken and well-seasoned sides. It’s a reliable go-to.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Grilled pork chops on a plate with oranges and limes. — Citrus Glazed Pork Chops. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Glazed Pork Chops take 30 minutes and use boneless chops, orange juice, and spices. The glaze is sweet with a little heat. The pork sears quickly and stays tender. It works well on weeknights or for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Glazed Pork Chops

Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia

Loaded with the garden fresh vegetables this summer veggie couscous is topped with sauteed tilapia and paired with remarkably versatile garnacha wine. — Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia takes 30 minutes and includes couscous, squash, and tilapia. The fish is mild and the vegetables stay crisp. The dish feels balanced and light. It’s a solid warm-weather option.
Get the Recipe: Summer Veggie Couscous with Sauteed Tilapia

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Cooked seasoned pork surrounded by diced vegetables in a black skillet on a wooden table. — One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner takes 45 minutes and features pork chops, potatoes, and bell peppers. Everything cooks together for less cleanup. The flavor is bold without being heavy. It’s built for easy servings.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Garlic Pepper Pork Dinner

Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Two lasagna roll-ups filled with spinach and ricotta cheese, topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, garnished with a fresh basil leaf—dishes every foodie should try before you die. — Spinach Lasagna Rolls. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spinach Lasagna Rolls take 1 hour and include ricotta, spinach, and marinara. Each roll holds up well and slices cleanly. The flavor is creamy with a little tang. It’s a vegetarian dish that doesn’t feel like a backup.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Roast Rack of Lamb

Roasted rack of lamb on a cutting board. — Roast Rack of Lamb. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roast Rack of Lamb takes 1 hour and uses lamb, garlic, and fennel. The meat roasts to tender with crisp edges. The flavor is rich and earthy. It’s the kind of main that people don’t forget.
Get the Recipe: Roast Rack of Lamb

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Bone in pork chop topped with hollandaise sauce and shrimp, on a white plate next to green beans. — Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf takes 40 minutes with thick-cut pork chops and seasoned shrimp. The combo brings both land and sea flavor. The shrimp adds a touch of brine. It’s a main that feels like two meals in one.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chop Surf and Turf

Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

Beef Tenderloin with Winter Vegetables takes 90 minutes and features roast beef, carrots, and parsnips. The meat is tender with a rich sauce. The vegetables turn soft with caramelized edges. It’s a sit-down meal that works without too much prep.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

Grilled Greek Lemon Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Greek Lemon Chicken Kabobs take 30 minutes with chicken, lemon, and herbs. The chicken grills quickly and picks up a citrusy char. The flavor is clean with a bit of smoke. They’re easy to grab and go.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Lemon Chicken Kabobs