Sizzle into Savings: Labor Day Recipes Using Walmart Deals
Labor Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the end of summer with friends, family, and, of course, delicious food. Walmart’s Labor Day deals provide a fantastic way to stock up on essentials and create memorable meals without breaking the bank. This article will guide you through several mouthwatering recipes, taking advantage of the amazing discounts you can find at Walmart. Get ready to impress your guests with these easy-to-follow recipes and make this Labor Day weekend one to remember!
Planning Your Labor Day Feast with Walmart Deals
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about strategy. Planning your shopping trip around Walmart’s Labor Day deals is crucial to maximizing your savings. Check Walmart’s website or app for advertised specials, clearance items, and rollbacks. Pay attention to the fine print – some deals may be available only online or in-store, and quantities might be limited.
Consider what you’ll be cooking and create a shopping list based on the recipes below. Don’t forget to check your pantry for existing ingredients to avoid unnecessary purchases. Think about drinks, snacks, and desserts, too, to complete your Labor Day spread. This comprehensive approach will ensure you grab all the best deals and stay within your budget.
Recipe 1: Grilled BBQ Chicken with Corn on the Cob
This classic Labor Day meal is always a crowd-pleaser, and Walmart’s deals on chicken and corn make it an economical choice.
**Ingredients:**
* **Chicken:** 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks work best)
* **BBQ Sauce:** 1 (18-ounce) bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce (look for rollback prices!)
* **Corn on the Cob:** 8 ears, husks removed
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste
* **Optional:** Your favorite BBQ rub for extra flavor
**Walmart Deals to Look For:**
* Family packs of chicken (often at a discounted price per pound)
* Bulk corn on the cob (check for seasonal discounts)
* BBQ sauce (compare brands for the best deal)
* Olive oil (Walmart’s Great Value brand is a budget-friendly option)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up on the grill. If using a BBQ rub, apply it generously to all sides of the chicken. Season with salt and pepper.
2. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Place the chicken pieces on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for 8-10 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and slightly crispy. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. **Baste with BBQ Sauce:** During the last 10 minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with BBQ sauce every few minutes. This will create a delicious, sticky glaze. Make sure the sauce doesn’t burn, so apply it towards the end of the cooking process.
5. **Prepare the Corn:** While the chicken is grilling, brush the corn on the cob with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. **Grill the Corn:** Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
7. **Serve:** Remove the chicken and corn from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a spicier kick, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your BBQ rub.
* Marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling for even more flavor.
* Wrap the corn on the cob in foil with a pat of butter and your favorite herbs before grilling for extra moisture and flavor.
* If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Recipe 2: Classic Potato Salad
No Labor Day celebration is complete without a creamy, delicious potato salad. This recipe is simple, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
**Ingredients:**
* **Potatoes:** 5 pounds of Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and cubed
* **Mayonnaise:** 1 ½ cups (look for deals on large jars!)
* **Yellow Mustard:** ¼ cup
* **Celery:** 2 stalks, finely chopped
* **Red Onion:** ½ medium, finely chopped
* **Hard-boiled Eggs:** 4, peeled and chopped
* **Sweet Pickle Relish:** ¼ cup
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** 2 tablespoons
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste
* **Optional:** Paprika for garnish
**Walmart Deals to Look For:**
* Large bags of potatoes (often at a discounted price per pound)
* Mayonnaise (compare brands and sizes for the best value)
* Mustard (look for rollback prices on common brands)
* Eggs (check for discounts on dozen or larger quantities)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Potatoes:** Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy. Drain the potatoes well and let them cool slightly.
2. **Make the Dressing:** In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, celery, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, sweet pickle relish, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Combine Potatoes and Dressing:** Gently fold the cooled potatoes into the dressing until they are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the potatoes.
4. **Chill:** Cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Before serving, give the potato salad a good stir. Garnish with paprika, if desired. Serve cold and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a tangier potato salad, add an extra tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
* Add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or chopped pickles, for extra flavor and texture.
* Use a different type of mustard, such as Dijon or spicy brown, for a unique flavor profile.
* If you prefer a sweeter potato salad, add a tablespoon or two of sugar to the dressing.
* For a healthier option, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise.
Recipe 3: Watermelon Feta Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect way to balance out the heavier dishes at your Labor Day celebration. The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta, and mint is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* **Watermelon:** 6 cups cubed (look for deals on whole watermelons!)
* **Feta Cheese:** 4 ounces, crumbled
* **Red Onion:** ¼ cup, thinly sliced
* **Fresh Mint:** ¼ cup, chopped
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons
* **Lime Juice:** 1 tablespoon
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste
**Walmart Deals to Look For:**
* Whole watermelons (often at a discounted price during the summer months)
* Feta cheese (compare brands for the best price)
* Fresh mint (check the produce section for pre-packaged herbs)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Watermelon:** Cube the watermelon and place it in a large bowl.
2. **Add the Other Ingredients:** Add the crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh mint to the bowl.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the dressing over the watermelon salad and gently toss to combine.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. **Serve:** Serve cold and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other fruits, such as blueberries or cantaloupe, for extra flavor and color.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.
* Garnish with toasted almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Recipe 4: Grilled Burgers with All the Fixings
Burgers are a Labor Day staple, and Walmart’s deals on ground beef and burger toppings make it easy to create a delicious and budget-friendly meal.
**Ingredients:**
* **Ground Beef:** 2 pounds (look for family packs for the best value)
* **Burger Buns:** 8 (choose your favorite type)
* **Lettuce:** 1 head, washed and dried
* **Tomato:** 2, sliced
* **Onion:** 1, sliced
* **Cheese:** 8 slices of your favorite cheese (cheddar, American, or Swiss)
* **Ketchup:** To taste
* **Mustard:** To taste
* **Mayonnaise:** To taste
* **Pickles:** Sliced, to taste
* **Optional:** Bacon, avocado, mushrooms, or other toppings
**Walmart Deals to Look For:**
* Family packs of ground beef (check for specials on different lean percentages)
* Burger buns (compare brands for the best price)
* Cheese slices (look for deals on pre-sliced cheese)
* Condiments (check for rollback prices on ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Burger Patties:** Gently mix the ground beef with your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Form the mixture into 8 patties, about ½ inch thick.
2. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
3. **Grill the Burgers:** Place the burger patties on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. **Add Cheese:** During the last minute of grilling, place a slice of cheese on each burger patty and let it melt.
5. **Toast the Buns:** Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill for a few seconds to prevent them from getting soggy.
6. **Assemble the Burgers:** Spread your favorite condiments on the toasted buns. Add lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and any other desired toppings. Place the cheeseburger patty on top and close the bun.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a juicier burger, add a tablespoon of ice-cold water to the ground beef mixture before forming the patties.
* Add breadcrumbs or egg to the ground beef mixture to help bind the patties together.
* Grill the burgers over medium heat to prevent them from drying out.
* Use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone, for a more flavorful burger.
* Add grilled onions, mushrooms, or bacon for extra flavor and texture.
* Experiment with different condiments, such as BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, or guacamole.
Recipe 5: No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
For a quick and easy dessert that everyone will love, try these no-bake chocolate peanut butter bars. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.
**Ingredients:**
* **Graham Crackers:** 1 ½ cups, crushed (look for deals on family-size boxes)
* **Butter:** ½ cup, melted
* **Powdered Sugar:** 2 cups
* **Peanut Butter:** 1 cup (creamy or chunky, your choice)
* **Chocolate Chips:** 1 ½ cups (milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate)
* **Shortening:** 2 tablespoons
**Walmart Deals to Look For:**
* Graham crackers (check for deals on family-size boxes)
* Peanut butter (compare brands and sizes for the best value)
* Chocolate chips (look for rollback prices on common brands)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. **Make the Peanut Butter Filling:** In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar and peanut butter. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the graham cracker crust.
3. **Make the Chocolate Topping:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
4. **Spread the Chocolate Topping:** Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling and spread it evenly.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow them to set.
6. **Cut and Serve:** Cut the bars into squares and serve cold. Enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or walnuts, to the peanut butter filling for extra crunch.
* Use a different type of chocolate, such as white chocolate or butterscotch chips, for a unique flavor profile.
* Drizzle with melted peanut butter or white chocolate for a decorative touch.
* Add a layer of marshmallow cream between the peanut butter filling and the chocolate topping for a s’mores-inspired treat.
* Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
Mastering the Art of Deal Hunting at Walmart
Securing the best deals at Walmart during Labor Day requires a strategic approach. Here’s how to maximize your savings:
* **Utilize the Walmart App:** Download the Walmart app to access exclusive deals, digital coupons, and price comparisons. The app also allows you to scan barcodes in-store to check prices and availability.
* **Check Online Prices:** Before heading to the store, browse Walmart’s website to get an idea of the available deals. Many items are cheaper online, and you can often opt for in-store pickup to avoid shipping costs.
* **Look for Rollbacks:** Rollbacks are temporary price reductions on popular items. Keep an eye out for rollback signs throughout the store.
* **Clearance Items:** Don’t overlook the clearance section! You can often find incredible deals on seasonal items, discontinued products, and overstock merchandise.
* **Price Matching:** Walmart offers a price matching policy that allows you to match the prices of select competitors. Check Walmart’s website for the specific terms and conditions.
* **Shop Early:** The best deals often disappear quickly, so it’s wise to shop early in the day or even before Labor Day weekend officially begins.
* **Consider Store Brands:** Walmart’s Great Value brand offers a wide range of products at budget-friendly prices. Often, the quality is comparable to name-brand products.
* **Read the Fine Print:** Pay close attention to the terms and conditions of each deal. Some deals may have quantity limits or other restrictions.
Drinks and Sides to Complement Your Labor Day Feast
No Labor Day meal is complete without refreshing drinks and flavorful side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to round out your spread:
**Drinks:**
* **Iced Tea:** Brew a large batch of iced tea and offer a variety of sweeteners and lemon wedges.
* **Lemonade:** Freshly squeezed lemonade is a classic summer beverage that’s always a hit.
* **Sparkling Water:** Offer a selection of flavored sparkling waters for a light and refreshing option.
* **Beer and Wine:** For adult guests, provide a selection of beer and wine that pairs well with grilled foods.
**Sides:**
* **Coleslaw:** A creamy coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to BBQ chicken or burgers.
* **Macaroni Salad:** Another classic side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Baked Beans:** Sweet and smoky baked beans are a hearty and satisfying side dish.
* **Grilled Vegetables:** Grill a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, for a healthy and flavorful side.
* **Chips and Dip:** A simple and easy snack that’s perfect for casual gatherings.
Staying Safe While Grilling
Grilling is a fun and rewarding way to cook outdoors, but it’s important to follow safety precautions to prevent accidents. Here are a few tips for safe grilling:
* **Keep the Grill Clean:** Clean your grill regularly to remove grease and food debris, which can cause flare-ups.
* **Grill in a Well-Ventilated Area:** Never grill indoors or in an enclosed space, as this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
* **Keep Children and Pets Away:** Supervise children and pets closely around the grill to prevent them from getting burned.
* **Use Proper Tools:** Use long-handled grilling utensils to avoid getting burned.
* **Never Leave the Grill Unattended:** Stay near the grill while it’s in use and never leave it unattended.
* **Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby:** Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your food is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Making the Most of Your Labor Day Weekend
Beyond delicious food, Labor Day weekend is a great time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the company of friends and family. Here are a few ideas for making the most of your Labor Day weekend:
* **Host a Backyard BBQ:** Invite your friends and family over for a Labor Day BBQ. Fire up the grill, put on some music, and enjoy the summer weather.
* **Go Camping:** Spend a weekend camping in the great outdoors. Enjoy hiking, swimming, and campfire stories.
* **Visit a Local Attraction:** Explore a local museum, park, or historical site.
* **Take a Road Trip:** Embark on a road trip to a nearby town or city.
* **Relax at Home:** Spend a relaxing weekend at home, reading, watching movies, or catching up on chores.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Affordable Labor Day Celebration
By taking advantage of Walmart’s Labor Day deals and following these delicious recipes, you can create a memorable and affordable celebration. Remember to plan ahead, shop strategically, and prioritize safety. Most importantly, enjoy the company of your loved ones and celebrate the end of summer in style. Happy Labor Day!
Enjoy your savings and delicious food! Remember to always check Walmart’s website and app for the latest deals and promotions.