While grilling is part of many July 4th festivities, sometimes the sweltering summer heat or lack of outdoor space can make firing up the barbecue less appealing. I’ve compiled a list of 29 mouthwatering, no-grill recipes so you can celebrate in air-conditioned bliss.
Crock Pot Spiral Ham
This Crock Pot Spiral Ham is simple to prepare, making it a great choice for a relaxed holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner when grilling isn’t an option. The combination of peach preserves, honey, and a touch of red pepper flakes creates a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Spiral Ham
Amish Macaroni Salad
Amish Macaroni Salad is a creamy and sweet side dish that’s sure to be a hit with any crowd. This uncomplicated recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal, especially when you’re not in the mood for grilling.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad
Sugar Cookie Bars
Sugar Cookie Bars are a simple treat that’s soft, chewy, and topped with a generous layer of frosting and colorful sprinkles. They’re a perfect sweet option for those times when the grill is covered, and you’re in the mood for something easy.
Get the Recipe: Sugar Cookie Bars
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Instant Pot Pulled Pork lets you enjoy classic barbecue flavor in just 2 hours. This tender shredded pork is an excellent main dish for when you’d rather skip the grilling and still enjoy a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Peach Caprese Salad
This simple peach Caprese salad elevates the classic dish with juicy summer peaches. It’s a refreshing, no-cook option that’s perfect for hot nights when you don’t feel like firing up the grill, and it’s visually stunning too!
Get the Recipe: Peach Caprese Salad
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
Turn a summer favorite into a quick and easy meal with air fryer BBQ chicken. Just season and air fry the chicken, then coat it in your favorite barbecue sauce for a delicious, grill-free dinner that’s ready in only 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
Pistachio Fluff Salad
With just five ingredients, Pistachio Fluff Salad is easy to make. Also known as Watergate salad, this dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time for any holiday gathering, especially when grilling isn’t part of the plan.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Fluff Salad
Layered Taco Dip
Forget boring chips and salsa! This layered taco dip recipe is a burst of Tex-Mex flavors – creamy, savory, and perfect for scooping with your favorite chips. It’s easy to make, great for parties, and sure to disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Layered Taco Dip
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are the ultimate in effortless cooking, resulting in irresistibly tender meat. Flavored with peach preserves, honey, and BBQ sauce, they’re a perfect main course for when you’re not in the mood for grilling.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Amish Potato Salad
Amish Potato Salad is a creamy concoction with a classic tang, thanks to the mustard, sugar, and celery seed. It’s a great choice for a potluck or a spring meal, especially when you’re looking for alternatives to grilling.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a hit for any appetizer spread. This classic recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you need a flavorful snack without the need for a grill.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Texas Caviar Dip
Texas Caviar Dip, also called Cowboy Caviar, is a vibrant and fresh salad that combines black-eyed peas, beans, and vegetables in a sweet and tangy dressing. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for enjoying when grilling isn’t an option.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar Dip
Coca Cola Pulled Pork
This Coca-Cola Pulled Pork is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, offering a delicious meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy days when you crave the taste of a summer barbecue without the need for a grill.
Get the Recipe: Coca Cola Pulled Pork
Coconut Bars with Chocolate Chips
These Coconut Bars with Chocolate Chips are a simple dessert that combines the tropical flavor of coconut with rich chocolate. They’re a convenient choice for a sweet treat when you’re taking a break from grilling.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Bars with Chocolate Chips
Red, White and Blue Poke Cake
This 4th of July poke cake is perfect for your Fourth of July celebration! It’s easy to make using a boxed cake mix, Jello, and just a few other ingredients, making it a great option when you’re not in the mood for grilling.
Get the Recipe: Red, White and Blue Poke Cake
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs
Juicy Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs are a simple dish, with drumsticks smothered in a tangy and smoky barbecue sauce. They’re a great alternative for those times when you want to keep things easy and skip the grill.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs
Cherry Salad
Cherry Salad, also known as Pink Fluff, is a chilled, sweet treat that’s a hit at potlucks and cookouts. With just six ingredients and five minutes of prep time, it’s a convenient choice for a no-grill occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad
Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treats
Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treats on a stick are a fun and festive way to serve up a classic. They’re an easy choice for a sweet snack and a perfect addition to any event where the grill stays cool.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treats
Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken
This slow cooker pulled chicken requires only 3 ingredients and minimal prep work, resulting in tender and juicy shredded chicken. Serve it on rolls with coleslaw and pickles for a simple, grill-free meal that captures the essence of barbecue flavors.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken
Broccoli Crunch Salad
A refreshing Broccoli Crunch Salad that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings when you’re not in the mood for grilling. It combines crisp raw broccoli with the sweetness of dried cranberries, the crunch of sunflower seeds, and savory bacon bits.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Patriotic Cookies
Celebrate in red, white, and blue with these show-stopping patriotic cookies! Perfect for your next BBQ or summer party when you’re not firing up the grill, these delicious treats are not only eye-catching but also incredibly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Cookies
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans
This Rotisserie Chicken Salad brings together crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and tender chicken for a nutritious and flavorful meal. It’s a perfect option for a no-grill Independence Day gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans
Blueberry Cobbler
Southern Blueberry Cobbler features a flaky biscuit topping with juicy berries peeking through. It’s a fruit-filled dessert that’s especially perfect for those times when grilling isn’t on your agenda.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cobbler
Red, White and Blue Deviled Eggs
These patriotic Red, White and Blue Deviled Eggs are simple to make and perfect for a summer celebration. They add a festive touch to any meal and are a great choice when you’re looking to enjoy the holiday inside.
Get the Recipe: Red, White and Blue Deviled Eggs
Air Fryer Ribs
Enjoy amazingly juicy, tender, and delicious ribs without the need for a grill or smoker. Air fryer ribs are ready in just 40 minutes, allowing you to savor the flavors of slow-cooked barbecue in a fraction of the time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Ribs
Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful combination of juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. It serves as an excellent side dish for enjoying inside.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Air Fryer Country Style Ribs
Enjoy juicy, smoky BBQ-flavored country style ribs made in your air fryer. These ribs are perfect for a hearty weeknight meal when you crave the taste of a summer barbecue without the need for a grill.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Country Style Ribs
Patriotic Dirt Cups
Celebrate Independence Day with fun and festive Dirt Cups! This easy red, white and blue recipe features creamy pudding and crushed cookies, making it perfect for kids and adults alike when you want to stay inside.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Dirt Cups
Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches
Transform your meal into a feast with Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches, complemented by crispy onions and bacon. This dish is a flavorful alternative to grilled meals, ideal for family gatherings when you want to keep things simple.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches
