Quick and delicious: Last-minute 4th of July recipes for fireworks time

Photo of author

| Published:

Even if you’re racing against the clock to get your Independence Day celebration in order, there’s still time to create a spectacular spread with these quick and easy recipes. From appetizers to main courses and even desserts, our list has something for everyone. Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable 4th of July feast that won’t keep you from the fireworks show!

Traeger Smoked Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs brushed with bbq sauce.
Smoked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

These tender, juicy, smoked chicken thighs are perfect! They are cooked in the pellet smoker flavor, basted with bbq sauce & seared for perfect crispy skin.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Chicken Thighs

Smoked Whole Chicken

Smoked chicken on rack.
Smoked Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

When it comes to flavor, it’s hard to be a smoked whole chicken. It’s juicy and tender and perfect for dinner or meal prep all week long.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Whole Chicken

Smoked Baked Beans

Tray of smoked baked beans.
Smoked Baked Beans. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Smoky, savory delight: Smoked Baked Beans! 🍲🔥 Elevate this classic side dish with rich smoky flavors, & pulled pork! Easy mouthwatering recipe!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Baked Beans

Easy Grilled Tri-Tip

Sliced tri-tip
Tri-Tip. Photo credit: GirlCarnivore.

Thin tender slices of grilled tri-tip are perfect for sandwiches, tacos, & more. Meet the “poor man’s brisket”: a West Coast classic with an elevated blend of seasonings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Tri-Tip

Traeger 3-2-1 Ribs

321 Ribs
321 Ribs. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Set the grill to 225F and rub your ribs with a simple rub in this crazy easy proven smoking recipe for 3-2-1 ribs!
Get the Recipe: Traeger 3-2-1 Ribs

Smoked Beer Can Chicken

Beer can chicken on a grill.
Beer can chicken. Photo Credit: GirlCarnivore Kita

This easy beer can chicken recipe is juicy, tender, and smoked to perfection! It only takes about an hour and a half to cook the chicken and enjoy!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beer Can Chicken

Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

Pile of smoked drumsticks.
Smoked Drumsticks. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor – learn how to make the ultimate smoked chicken drumsticks in just a few simple steps with tips!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Drumsticks

Grilled Flank Steak

Steak sliced for serving.
Sliced flank steak. Photo Credit: Girl Carnivore.

When it comes to amazing flank steak tacos, you can’t beat this recipe for grilled steak thinly shaved and folded into warm tortillas!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Flank Steak

Smoked Pork Loin Back Ribs

Overhead shot of grilled corn and ribs.
Photo credit: GirlCarnivore.

These spicy smoked ribs are a perfect easy barbecue recipe with a fast 5 ingredient dry rub! Pop them in the smoker and let the magic happen.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Loin Back Ribs

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers on platter.
Grilled shrimp skewers. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Fire up the grill for this easy 30 minute recipe for barbecue grilled shrimp skewers brushed with BBQ sauce and finished with a fresh chimichurri sauce!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers