Labor Day is the perfect time to celebrate the end of summer with a backyard cookout, and choosing the right meat for Labor Day can make all the difference. Whether you are planning a big family gathering or a small get-together with friends, the cuts you choose will set the tone for your feast. From delicious roasts to gourmet brats, having a selection that suits a variety of tastes is key to making the day memorable.
When you think about meat for Labor Day, it is about more than just cooking. It is about creating an experience that brings people together around the grill. With so many options available, it helps to know which meats not only taste great but also grill beautifully. This guide highlights five mouthwatering choices that will satisfy your guests, give you an excuse to try new recipes, and make your holiday gathering one to remember.
6 Irresistible Meat for Labor Day Picks
1. Smash Burgers
Omaha Steaks’s classic Smash Burgers take the work out of crafting the perfect crispy-edged burger. Pre-smashed for greater caramelization and faster cooking, these patties go from freezer to grill to bun in just five minutes. Made from 100 percent premium-aged Omaha Steaks beef, each patty delivers exceptional flavor and tenderness. They are individually packaged so you can cook just the right amount for your crowd, making them as convenient as they are delicious. Pair with brioche buns, cheese, and your favorite toppings for an instant cookout favorite.
2. Grass-Fed, Grass-Finished Competition Cut Brisket
The Grass-Fed, Grass-Finished Competition Cut Brisket from Certified Piedmontese comes perfectly trimmed and ready for the smoker, grill, or oven. With no excess fat to remove, you can focus on cooking low and slow for unbeatable tenderness and flavor. Raised without hormones or antibiotics, this all-natural brisket consistently delivers rich, savory results that are perfect for serving a crowd at your Labor Day gathering. Each brisket weighs a minimum of nine pounds, making it ideal for feeding family and friends.
3. Snap & Eat Snow Crab
Wild Alaskan Company’s delicious Snap & Eat Snow Crab offers sweet, delicate meat in every pre-scored leg and claw. Fully cooked and ready in minutes, these crab legs make for an easy yet impressive addition to your Labor Day spread. The tender, flaky meat is perfect on its own or paired with melted butter and fresh lemon. With no cracking required, guests can enjoy the flavor of premium snow crab without the extra work.
4. Gourmet Bratwursts
These Gourmet Bratwursts from Omaha Steaks bring classic German flavor to your grill with a blend of beef and pork seasoned with traditional spices. Hardwood-smoked and fully cooked, they are ready to heat and serve in minutes, making them a versatile choice for Labor Day. Enjoy them on a bun with caramelized onions, cheese, or sauerkraut, or serve alongside fresh sides for a hearty meal. Their smoky aroma and juicy bite make them a favorite for cookouts, tailgates, and year-round grilling.
5. Sockeye Salmon Burgers
Wild Alaskan Company’s unique and tasty Sockeye Salmon Burgers offer a fresh, flavorful alternative for Labor Day grilling. Made from premium wild-caught sockeye salmon and a unique spice blend, these burgers cook straight from frozen in just ten minutes. Whether on the grill, in a skillet, or in the air fryer, they deliver restaurant-quality taste with the convenience of a quick-prep meal. Perfect for guests who prefer seafood, these salmon burgers bring a lighter option to your cookout without sacrificing flavor.
6. Grass-Fed, Grass-Finished Tri-Tip Roast
Certified Piedmontese’s Grass-Fed, Grass-Finished Tri-Tip Roast is a lean, flavorful cut from the bottom sirloin that has long been a staple of California barbecue. Known for its tenderness and distinct grain, this cut can be grilled, smoked, or roasted to perfection. Raised without hormones or antibiotics, the tri-tip delivers natural beef flavor in every bite. For the best results, slice against the grain after cooking to keep each piece juicy and tender. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this roast adds variety and West Coast flair to your Labor Day menu.
Marinades and Rubs That Elevate Meat for Labor Day
The right marinade or rub can transform your meat for Labor Day from good to unforgettable. Whether you want smoky, spicy, tangy, or herbaceous flavors, using quality blends makes a noticeable difference. These options from trusted sources pair perfectly with beef, chicken, pork, and seafood.
Here are a few standout picks to try:
- Certified Piedmontese Classic Steakhouse Rub – A peppery, bold rub designed to enhance the natural flavor of premium beef cuts.
- Omaha Steaks Sweet Smoky Applewood Seasoning – Perfect for ribs or chicken, with a balance of molasses sweetness and applewood smoke.
Vital Choice Lemon Pepper Rub– Custom blend of bright citrus and herbs that complement seafood, especially wild-caught cod. - Omaha Steaks Private Reserve Rub – A savory blend of garlic, onion, and paprika that adds depth to steaks, burgers, and pork chops.
- Certified Piedmontese Garlic & Herb Marinade – A classic blend for chicken, pork tenderloin, or grilled vegetables.
Meat for Labor Day: Tips for Prepping Meat Before the Grill
The key to great flavor and texture starts before your meat for Labor Day ever touches the grill. Taking the time to properly prep your meat for Labor Day will help lock in juiciness and enhance flavor. From trimming fat to seasoning at the right moment, every step matters. Here are some essential prep tips to follow when it comes to meat for Labor Day:
- Trim excess fat to prevent flare-ups while still leaving enough for flavor.
- Pat meat dry before seasoning to help the rub or marinade adhere better.
- Bring meat to room temperature for even cooking on the grill.
- Season generously to make sure flavor penetrates beyond the surface.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking without overdoing it.
- Let meat rest after grilling so juices redistribute for a tender bite.
Bring Flavor and Fun with Meat for Labor Day
Wrapping up your plans for Labor Day means making sure your menu is ready, and picking the right meat for Labor Day is an important step. By selecting cuts that are flavorful, versatile, and easy to prepare, you can focus more on enjoying the company and less on stressing over the grill.
From tender roasts to juicy smash burgers, these six picks offer variety and excitement for your cookout menu. Remember, meat for Labor Day should be about flavor and fun, giving you the chance to experiment with marinades, rubs, and grilling techniques. When the grill is hot and the table is set, your guests will appreciate every bite and every moment of the celebration.
