Labor Day is for food, friends, and fun—not being stuck at the grill.
The solution? Make-ahead BBQ recipes that save time, cut down on stress, and still deliver big flavor.
Here are 15 crowd-pleasing dishes you can prep in advance so you’ll actually enjoy the party too.
1. Smoked Brisket
Brisket can take 12-14 hours to cook, which makes it perfect for prepping the day before. Smoke it low and slow, wrap tightly in foil, and refrigerate.
On party day, just reheat gently in the oven and slice. The flavor actually improves overnight.
Want oven alternatives? Click here
2. Pulled Pork
This is the ultimate make-ahead BBQ dish. Pork shoulder shreds beautifully after a long smoke or slow cook. Store it in its juices to keep it moist.
Warm it up in a slow cooker with some extra sauce, and your guests can pile it high on buns or nachos—without you babysitting the smoker.
If you want the full smoking guide, click here.
3. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Marinate drumsticks overnight, roast them in the oven, and refrigerate. On party day, finish them off on the grill for that smoky char.
This trick saves grill space for other meats.
Need sauce ideas? Click here
4. BBQ Ribs (Pre-Cooked and Glazed)
Instead of stressing about timing, cook your ribs the day before until tender. Wrap them up, refrigerate, then glaze and finish on the grill for 15 minutes before serving.
You’ll still get that sticky, finger-licking bark.
Want to know the recipe for the perfect rib rub? Click here
5. Smoked Sausage Links
Smoked sausage holds up incredibly well. Grill them a day early, slice, and keep in a foil pan. Reheat on the grill or in the oven.
Want tips on smoking sausage? Click here
6. Burgers (Pre-Formed Patties)
Save yourself time by forming patties ahead of time. Stack them with parchment paper, refrigerate or freeze, then toss them on the grill when guests arrive.
Want to know the best temp prior to serving? Click here
7. BBQ Baked Beans
Beans taste even better after sitting overnight. Make a big pot with bacon, onions, and BBQ sauce the day before.
Keep them warm in a slow cooker so they’re ready whenever guests are hungry.
Pro tip: Add smoked sausage or extra bacon for a heartier dish.
8. Coleslaw
Slaws actually taste better when they sit overnight. The cabbage softens slightly while the dressing flavors blend.
By the time guests arrive, the flavors will have melded beautifully.
Pro tip: Make two versions—classic creamy and vinegar-based—for different tastes.
9. Potato Salad
No BBQ is complete without potato salad. Yukon golds hold their texture well and pair beautifully with tangy mayo, mustard, or even a vinegar dressing.
Cook your potatoes, toss with dressing, and chill overnight.
If you want to learn quick and simple variations of grilled potatoes, click here.
10. Cornbread Muffins
Cornbread can be baked a day or two in advance. Make them in muffin form so guests can grab and go.
Wrap tightly so they stay moist until party time.
Pro tip: Add jalapeños or shredded cheddar for a little kick.
11. Macaroni Salad
Just like coleslaw, macaroni salad gets better after chilling overnight. Stir well before serving for the best texture.
Pro Tip: Toss pasta in a little olive oil before mixing so it doesn’t clump.
12. Grilled Veggie Skewers
Prep skewers with zucchini, peppers, onions, and mushrooms the night before. Store in a covered tray.
Want to know the best grilled veggies to prep? Click here.
13. BBQ Meatballs
These are a hit for parties. Bake your meatballs, coat them in sauce, and refrigerate. Reheat in a slow cooker on the big day for an easy appetizer.
They make the perfect appetizer that guests can snack on while waiting for the main course.
Pro Tip: Keep a toothpick jar nearby so guests can grab-and-go.
14. Watermelon Salad
Keep it light with a refreshing watermelon, feta, and mint salad. Chop the ingredients in advance and store them separately.
Mix them right before serving for peak freshness.
Looking for side-dish inspiration? Click here.
15. Dessert: S’mores Bars
Skip the firepit. Make gooey s’mores bars ahead of time with graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows baked into squares.
Pro Tip: Chill the bars before slicing for clean edges and easy serving.
Pro Tips for Make-Ahead BBQ Success
• Use foil pans. They’re great for storage and reheating.
• Keep things moist. Add a splash of broth or BBQ sauce when reheating meats.
• Stagger reheating. Not everything has to be piping hot at once—plan your oven space wisely.
• Don’t overcomplicate. Labor Day is about relaxing, not stressing in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Labor Day parties are about celebrating—not sweating over the grill.
With these 15 make-ahead BBQ recipes, you’ll serve a feast that feels effortless while still having time to kick back with your guests.
So prep ahead, fire up the grill for a quick finish, and enjoy every bite of the holiday weekend.
