The best part of hosting Labor Day is actually getting to enjoy it — and that starts with sides you made yesterday. These 20 make-ahead dishes come together in advance, so all you have to do on the big day is pull them out of the fridge and let everyone dig in.
Air Fryer Ground Beef Taco Bowls
This is the dinner I reach for when everyone is hungry and patience is running low — seasoned beef, melty cheese, and crispy mini taco shells ready in about 15 minutes. I set out a topping bar and let everyone build their own, which means zero complaints and zero dishes piled in the sink. It’s all the flavor of taco night without any of the assembly chaos.
Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole
Hearty, golden, and gone in minutes — this cowboy casserole is the kind of comfort food dinner that earns a permanent spot in the weekly rotation. Savory ground beef and sweet corn get blanketed in gooey cheese, then topped with a layer of tater tots that come out perfectly crispy from the air fryer. It’s ready in about 40 minutes and tastes like it took all day.
Air Fryer Lipton Onion Soup Mix Burgers
One packet of Lipton onion soup mix is the secret weapon that makes these burgers taste deeply savory and well-seasoned all the way through — no grill, no flipping, no fuss. They come out juicy with a perfectly seared edge in just 17 minutes, which makes them a lifesaver on busy school nights. Five simple ingredients and you’re done.
Jack Daniels Meatloaf with Sweet Whiskey BBQ Glaze
Classic weeknight meatloaf gets a serious upgrade here — a Tennessee whiskey BBQ glaze brushed on top lacquers into a sticky, caramelized crust that makes the whole house smell incredible while it bakes. It’s pure comfort food with a little swagger, and the leftovers make the best sandwiches the next day.
Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs
Juicy on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and double-glazed in sticky BBQ sauce — these air fryer meatballs are ready in about 20 minutes with zero stovetop splatter. Use homemade or frozen, they work beautifully either way. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a game day spread.
Air Fryer Beef Chimichangas
All the crispy, golden satisfaction of a deep-fried chimichanga — without the pot of hot oil or the mess that comes with it. Tender, well-seasoned ground beef gets wrapped in a flour tortilla and air fried until the outside is perfectly crunchy. Load them up with sour cream and guacamole and dinner feels like a restaurant night at home.
Air Fryer Chili
Yes, you can make real, hearty chili in the air fryer — start to finish, no stovetop, no Dutch oven, no hour of simmering. The beef browns right in the basket, the spices bloom, and the whole thing comes together in about 35 minutes. It’s a genuinely useful weeknight dinner, not just a novelty.
Gluten Free Pasta Salad
This pasta salad skips the gluten but keeps the creamy texture and vibrant flavors you’d expect. Tossed with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, it’s a chilled dish that travels well. You can make it ahead and serve cold, which helps take pressure off busy BBQ prep. It pairs easily with grilled meats or burgers.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Pasta Salad
Instant Pot Potato Salad
This method speeds up the cooking time and makes soft, fluffy potatoes without overboiling. The eggs cook right in the pot, cutting down on dishes. Creamy, tangy, and easy to customize, it’s a great make-ahead option. Chill it until serving for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Potato Salad
Blackstone Corn on the Cob
Grilled on a flat top, this corn gets a slight char and a touch of smokiness. A quick brush of butter or your favorite seasoning blend makes it pop. It’s easy to cook in big batches, which is great for feeding a crowd. Serve with lime wedges or parmesan for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Corn on the Cob
Golden Corral Cornbread Recipe
This copycat cornbread is soft, slightly sweet, and bakes up with a golden crust. It balances tender crumb with just the right amount of moisture. Enjoy it warm with butter or dipped into baked beans. It’s a reliable favorite that fits right into any BBQ spread.
Get the Recipe: Golden Corral Cornbread Recipe
Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes are made quick and easy with the Ninja Foodi. They have a buttery texture that doesn’t require a ton of effort. Customize them with roasted garlic or herbs. Serve them warm with grilled sausages or ribs.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Foodi Mashed Potatoes
Air Fryer Southern Deviled Eggs
These deviled eggs get a Southern spin with relish and seasoning that’s bold but balanced. Air frying the eggs makes peeling easier and helps with prep. The filling is creamy, sharp, and satisfying. Top with paprika or crispy bacon bits.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Southern Deviled Eggs
Air Fryer Curried Deviled Eggs
With curry powder mixed into the yolk filling, these eggs bring a warm, spiced flavor. The result is unexpected but works beautifully with grilled meats. They’re easy to prep and serve chilled. Garnish with cilantro or a dusting of paprika.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Curried Deviled Eggs
Ninja Woodfire Grilled Zucchini
Grilled over woodfire, the zucchini gets a smoky layer of flavor with charred edges. A light seasoning or marinade brings out its natural sweetness. Slice it thick to avoid overcooking. It’s simple, fresh, and pairs well with heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grilled Zucchini
Baked Bean Bacon Cups
These are baked beans with a twist—served in crispy bacon cups that add a smoky crunch. The beans are sweet and savory, with brown sugar and a hint of spice. They work great as a handheld bite or plated side. Expect them to disappear quickly at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Baked Bean Bacon Cups
French Potato Salad by Barefoot Contessa
Ina Garten’s take on potato salad is tossed with a mustard vinaigrette instead of mayonnaise. The warm potatoes soak up the dressing beautifully, creating a zesty, herb-filled side. Capers and fresh herbs add depth without overwhelming. It’s light, flavorful, and best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: French Potato Salad by Barefoot Contessa
Air Fryer Potato Salad
This version skips the boiling step and gives the potatoes a slightly crispy edge. Once air fried, they’re mixed with a tangy dressing and fresh veggies. The texture is a nice change from the traditional soft salad. It’s a conversation starter and a flavorful bite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Salad
Air Fryer Copycat Chick-Fil-A Waffle Fries
These waffle fries are crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, just like the ones from the drive-thru. Made in the air fryer, they get a golden finish without deep frying. A simple seasoning mix gives them that familiar flavor. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Copycat Chick-Fil-A Waffle Fries
