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Red, white, and chew: Your go-to guide for Fourth of July dishes

By Miracle Gross
Published  July 1, 2025 1:43pm EDT
Food and Drink
FOX 5 DC

The Brief

    • Hosting or heading to a July 4th celebration? This guide has dishes that fit every table.
    • From backyard classics to vibrant red-white-and-blue desserts, each dish brings its own flair.
    • Here’s a guide to planning your plate—from first bites to fireworks.

WASHINGTON - Planning a July 4 celebration? Whether you’re hosting a cookout or bringing a dish to share, this menu has a little something for everyone. Plus, we gave each dish a name worthy of fireworks. 

Here’s your go-to guide for Fourth of July eats to keep spirits high from sparklers to sundown. 

Appetizers: Firecracker Cravings 

  • Red, White & Brunch Board - Stack red meats, white cheeses, and blueberries in the shape of the American flag for a patriotic twist on the classic charcuterie board.
  • Fruit Firecrackers – Thread watermelon chunks, blueberries and marshmallows onto skewers for refreshing, sweet-and-simple bites.
  • Stars & Starch Potato Salad – Whip up creamy potato salad with boiled eggs, mustard, and chopped celery—classic, cool and perfect for summer dishes.

Main Dishes: Backyard Favorites  

  • Star-Spangled Hot Honey Chicken - Drizzle your hot honey over fried drumsticks or wings for a sweet-heat, Fourth of July favorite.
  • Backyard Burger Bites – Stack your grilled mini burgers on soft slider buns with crispy bacon bits, cheddar cheese and sliced onion. These bold bites bring some big flavor in small form.
  • Stars & Stripes Hot Dogs – Grill some hot dogs and score them with char for a signature bite. Set up a toppings station with relish, mustard, ketchup, and chopped onions for a customizable bite.

Sides: Classics That Stand Tall 

  • Liberty Greens – Simmer collard greens with ham hocks or smoked turkey until tender and savory. A soulful, Southern staple that brings the heart to a cookout.
  • All-American Mac Attack - Spoon up layers of elbow macaroni baked in sharp cheddar cheese, topped with a crisp, bronzed top for a crowd-favorite that holds its own on any holiday plate.
  • Cornbread Firecakes – Slice into warm cornbread and brush with honey butter for a slightly sweet side that pairs everything on your plate.

Desserts: Sweet Land of Liberty 

  • Pound Cake Parade - Top slices of strawberry pound cake with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a red-white-and-blue finish.
  • Firework Jell-O Cups - Layer red, white, and blue Jell-O into clear cups for a nostalgic treat that sparks pre-fireworks.
  • Star Spangled Strawberries - Dip strawberries in white chocolate and coat with blue sprinkles for a no-bake dessert that's festive and fun.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or crafting a quick plate before the fireworks show, these dishes add flavor and flair to your celebration—no sparklers required.  

Food and DrinkWashington, D.C.Holidays