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Home » Recipes » Recipe Roundups

Last Updated: Jul 1, 2024 by Angela Latimer · Leave a Comment

Birthday Party Foods (Menu Planning)

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Birthday party foods (menu planning): A list of the easiest and most delicious recipes for hosting an epic birthday party. From appetizers to desserts, these recipes are always a hit with kids and adults alike. I've also included some tips and tricks that will help you streamline the menu planning process.

If you don't see anything that piques your interest here, check out my easy party appetizers and easy party desserts for more great ideas.

Square split image showing different birthday party food ideas.
Jump to:
  • 🎉 Birthday Party Appetizers
  • 1. Deviled Eggs
  • 2. Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
  • 3. Dill Pickle Dip
  • 4. Rotel Dip
  • 5. Nachos Supreme
  • 6. Easy Air Fryer Pretzel Bites
  • ‌🍔 Best Main Courses for Birthdays
  • 7. Baked Potato Bar
  • 8. Burger Bar
  • 9. Hot Dog Bar
  • 10. Taco Bar
  • ‌🍟 Birthday Party Side Dishes
  • 11. Fruit Salad
  • 12. Potato Salad
  • 13. Ambrosia Salad
  • 14. Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings
  • ‌🎂 Birthday Party Desserts
  • 15. Sprinkle Cookies
  • 16. Easy Chocolate Cake
  • 17. Birthday Cake Funfetti Cupcakes
  • 18. Chocolate Birthday Cake
  • 💭 Tips For Choosing The Best Birthday Party Foods
  • 🎉🎂🎈🍰 More Crowd-Pleasing Recipes
  • 📖 Recipe Card
  • Birthday Party Foods (Menu Planning): 18+ Recipes To Make The Day Special!
  • 💬 Comments & Reviews

There are three key things you need to pull off a fabulous birthday party: a venue, entertainment, and FOOD. If you've picked the place to host your party and planned the activities, then all that's left is to build the birthday party menu.

Now that my daughter is a teenager, I've hosted my fair share of parties for kiddos to young adults. I've learned a thing or two about picking the perfect menu that keeps the partygoers happy and makes cleanup afterward a breeze.

🎉 Birthday Party Appetizers

Chips with dip and grab-and-go snacks make for the best party appetizers. You don't want to choose anything too complicated, so you can focus your energy on the main course and dessert.

1. Deviled Eggs

When I'm throwing a party, these deviled eggs are always the first thing to disappear. This is my go-to recipe for classic deviled eggs with the perfect balance of mayonnaise and mustard.

Deviled Eggs
These deviled eggs are a classic, time-honored recipe that is supremely easy to make and quite simply the best ever! Some things just don't need improving, and these yummy deviled eggs are one of those things! Of course, you can always change them up with stir-ins or add-ons, but these eggs will be just like the ones from your childhood!
Check out this recipe
These easy to make deviled eggs are just like Grandma made them and still the best ever recipe!

2. Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

It doesn't get much easier than these 2-ingredient air fryer pigs in a blanket. They are a great appetizer for when you're short on time before the party starts, and they are practically mess-free.

Air Fryer Pigs In A Blanket
This 20-minute air fryer pigs in a blanket recipe combines savory Little Smokies sausages and buttery crescent rolls to make an easy snack! The air fryer is the fastest way to make this classic appetizer that is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and parties!
Check out this recipe
Square image of air fryer pigs in a blanket on a metal tray with ketchup.

3. Dill Pickle Dip

This creamy chip dip is full of dill pickle flavor. Best of all, it only takes about 10 minutes to throw together and only requires a handful of simple ingredients.

Dill Pickle Dip
Dill pickle dip is an incredibly easy, quick, and delicious appetizer to make for your next potluck, party, or game day get-together! Loaded with chopped dill pickles, seasoning, cream cheese, and sour cream, this pickle dip has the best zesty, creamy flavor! With only 10 minutes of prep work and 6 ingredients, you'll love how simple it is to whip up in a flash.
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing dill pickle dip with carrots, chips, and celery.

4. Rotel Dip

Warm and cheesy RoTel dip is best served with crispy tortilla chips. The taco-seasoned ground beef makes this an excellent appetizer for the taco bar below.

Cheesy Rotel Dip
Rotel dip blends hearty taco-seasoned ground beef, creamy Velveeta cheese, and Rotel tomatoes with chiles! It combines to make an amazing game day dip to satisfy your queso cravings! All you need is a bag of tortilla chips!
Check out this recipe
Wide closeup on the rotel dip in skillet with chip dipped.

5. Nachos Supreme

A giant platter of nachos supreme will require some extra plates and napkins, but they're always a popular addition to any appetizer spread. To make things easier, you can put the cheese and toppings on the side so everyone can assemble their nachos on their plate.

Taco Bell Nachos Supreme Copycat Recipe
Nachos Supreme is an easy snack meal. Add all of your favorite toppings for these nachos supreme that are better than any from Taco Bell. No one complains when I'm dishing up their servings of this ultimate baked beef nachos recipe!
Check out this recipe
Loaded nachos supreme with nacho toppings.

6. Easy Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Utilize time-saving kitchen appliances like your air fryer or Instant Pot to help you with prep. These air fryer pretzel bites are delicious and perfect for dunking in various condiments and sauces like my cheese dip for pretzels.

Easy Air Fryer Pretzel Bites
These easy air fryer pretzel bites are the perfect salty, soft, and chewy appetizer for any party, game day, or family gathering! This easy recipe features refrigerated pizza dough and a few ingredients for a simple egg wash to brush on the bites before they air fry. Serve them with some tasty cheese dip, ranch dip, or your favorite mustard for a shareable snack everyone will love!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of air fryer pretzels.

>>>See All Of My Tasty Recipes Here!<<<

‌🍔 Best Main Courses for Birthdays

7. Baked Potato Bar

Baked potatoes can make an excellent main course if you provide a variety of hearty fillings like pulled pork or shredded chicken.

I like to display all the potato toppings in Tupperware containers. That way, I can quickly close everything up and refrigerate it when the party ends.

Baked Potato Bar
Perfect for entertaining, a baked potato bar is essentially a baked potato buffet loaded with toppings so guests can serve themselves! Fluffy baked potatoes and a spread of add-ons are a terrific, satisfying, and budget-friendly way to entertain!
Check out this recipe
Square image of choices for a baked potato bar.

8. Burger Bar

Both kids and adults love burgers, especially when there are tons of tasty burger toppings to choose from. You can offer different cheeses and condiments like my addictive burger sauce and let everyone build their perfect burger.

Burger Bar
A burger bar is a fun and delicious way to entertain friends and family for parties, special occasions, or just because! All you need is the right ingredients and a little creativity! Whether you're looking for a classic cheeseburger or an adventurous creation, a burger bar has something for everyone!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of burger bar ideas.

9. Hot Dog Bar

A build-your-own hotdog bar is perfect for summertime parties and outdoor events. Hot dogs are quick and easy to prepare and don't require any silverware. A big batch of homemade chili for chili dogs is always appreciated, too.

Hot Dog Bar
This hot dog bar is the perfect way to feed a crowd at parties or any special occasion you plan on having a lot of guests! Everyone will love building their own hotdogs using a variety of meat, vegetables, cheese, condiments, and more at this DIY hot dog buffet! You can even save time on the day of the party by preparing all of the toppings in advance!
Check out this recipe
Fully assembled hot dog bar ready to serve a crowd.

10. Taco Bar

If the guest of honor is a fan of tacos, nothing beats a taco bar. You can assemble different toppings, condiments, meats, and fillings for everyone to load up their taco shells or tortillas (or both).

Adults may appreciate more 'gourmet' taco toppings, while kids are usually content with the basics.

Taco Bar
A taco bar is an easy and delicious way to feed a hungry crowd and guests will love getting to build their own tacos. With tons of tasty toppings to choose from, everyone can customize their taco to perfectly suit their tastes! Keep reading for everything you need to know about setting up the ultimate taco bar at home!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of a taco bar layout.

‌🍟 Birthday Party Side Dishes

11. Fruit Salad

Fruit salad is cool and refreshing, plus it can be made hours before the party and kept in the fridge until you're ready. The fruit is tossed in a super simple honey citrus sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Fresh Fruit Salad
My best fresh fruit salad contains grapes, nectarines, bananas, mangoes, kiwis, strawberries, oranges, and pineapple! This easy, classic fruit salad recipe features a made-from-scratch honey citrus fruit sauce that screams summertime! It's a refreshing salad that doubles as a dessert!
Check out this recipe
Wide closeup on the fresh fruit salad garnished with fresh mint leaves.

12. Potato Salad

It's easy to make a huge batch of potato salad, and again, it can be prepared the night before and refrigerated until needed. This is a favorite for outdoor parties during the hot summer months.

Potato Salad
This potato salad is a classic side dish recipe that can easily be customized to suit your preferred tastes! Not only is it amazingly easy to prepare, but it is also incredibly addicting! After just one bite, this will become your new favorite potato salad recipe!
Check out this recipe
Best classic potato salad recipe to make for any occasion, served in wooden bowl on light background.

13. Ambrosia Salad

Ambrosia salad is a sweet side dish consisting of creamy Cool Whip dressing, fluffy mini marshmallows, and fruit. You can whip it up hours before the party and keep it cool in the fridge while focusing on the remaining food.

Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Ambrosia salad is an easy, creamy fruit dessert that features Cool Whip, pineapple, mandarins, cherries, mini marshmallows, and more! It's a delightfully refreshing dish to bring to your next potluck, family gathering, or party with your friends. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or need a simple dessert to make in a pinch, this fruit salad recipe is sure to be a hit with adults and kids alike!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of Ambrosia Salad in a bowl.

14. Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings

Onion rings pair perfectly with any of the main courses above (of course, you could go for air fryer french fries, too). Frozen onion rings turn out crispy and delicious in the air fryer, no one will know they weren't homemade.

Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings
I'm absolutely loving these Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings for how incredibly easy and super crispy they turn out in just minutes! The ease of getting as-good-as-deep-fried foods in these air fryers is just amazing. I love the ease of cleanup and both hubby and I love these perfectly crisped onion rings with a big, juicy burger!!
Check out this recipe
large square image of crispy air fryer frozen onion rings stacked 8 high with dip on the side.

‌🎂 Birthday Party Desserts

15. Sprinkle Cookies

I love that you can use any type of sprinkles for these soft and chewy sprinkle cookies. It makes it incredibly easy to make them match the party theme.

Sprinkle Cookies
These sprinkle cookies are incredibly soft, perfectly chewy, and completely coated in colorful rainbow sprinkles. They are a childhood favorite that will add a special touch to birthdays and special occasions. Of course, they are so easy to make and delicious that you can prepare them whenever you like.
Check out this recipe
Wide close up image of sprinkle cookies.

16. Easy Chocolate Cake

If you don't consider yourself a baker, you can still pull off a wonderfully moist and decadent birthday cake. This easy chocolate cake recipe is simple enough for beginners in the kitchen and always tastes delicious.

Easy Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Ganache
This easy chocolate cake recipe couldn't be more simple, and it turns out moist, fluffy, and deliciously rich every time! All you have to do is combine the ingredients and bake! It will be your new go-to cake for birthday parties, celebrations, or just because!
Check out this recipe
Close up square image of easy chocolate cake.

>>>See All Of My Tasty Recipes Here!<<<

17. Birthday Cake Funfetti Cupcakes

Cupcakes are a classic birthday dessert that can be easily customized with sprinkles, candy, and different colors and flavors of buttercream frosting. I love these Funfetti cupcakes because every bite has a rainbow sprinkle surprise.

You could also try my number cupcake cake, which makes for a cute photo op!

Birthday Cake Funfetti Cupcakes
These birthday cake Funfetti cupcakes are fun, delicious, and perfect for celebrating your loved one's birthday! They are quick and easy to prepare and are sweet, tender, and incredibly moist. Top them off with your favorite type of frosting and get ready to enjoy the party!
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing birthday cake funfetti cupcakes.

18. Chocolate Birthday Cake

Almost everyone loves chocolate. As long as the birthday boy or girl is a fan of chocolate cake, this moist chocolate birthday cake with chocolate buttercream frosting never disappoints.

Chocolate Birthday Cake
This chocolate birthday cake is a moist, rich, and decadent cake that any chocolate lover will be excited about! The perfectly baked cake is layered with homemade chocolate buttercream frosting that is absolutely heavenly. Add on some fun decorations and candles for a birthday cake you'll never forget!
Check out this recipe
Square image of a chocolate birthday cake.

💭 Tips For Choosing The Best Birthday Party Foods

Ultimately it's up to the guest of honor to choose the type of food at their party, unless it's a surprise party, of course. Here are a few key things to keep in mind when building the birthday party menu:

  1. Pick age-appropriate options: When selecting the menu, be sure to keep the age of the attendees in mind. Young kids usually prefer common foods, whereas teenagers or adults might enjoy a more diverse menu.
  2. Consider the time of your party: Usually, you will be expected to serve dinner if the party is at dinnertime. If you're working on a budget, have a mid-afternoon party. You can feed small plates and snacks rather than a full meal if the party is held outside of mealtimes.
  3. Finger foods and easy-to-eat items: Finger foods and easy-to-eat options are best, especially for younger kids. Guests can graze and snack throughout the party, so dishes that require minimal mess or utensils make cleanup so much easier.
  4. Customize for the theme: If the birthday party has a specific theme, try incorporating it into the food. For example, I like to use coordinating frosting colors for cakes or cupcakes.
  5. Keep it fun: Interactive food stations that allow partygoers to customize their meals are part of the entertainment. Build-your-own burger bars, taco bars, hot dog bars, and even ice cream sundae stations are always a hit.

🎉🎂🎈🍰 More Crowd-Pleasing Recipes

  • Cream Cheese Salsa Dip - This 2-ingredient party dip is the perfect appetizer for a taco bar!
  • Boneless Chicken Wings - The great thing about boneless chicken wings is that you can toss them in different sauces and seasonings for variety!
  • Fudge Brownies - Warm fudgy chocolate brownies are delicious with a scoop of ice cream on top!
  • Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese - This rich and creamy mac and cheese can be served warm right out of your crockpot!
  • Cherry Pie Bars - These 3-ingredient dessert bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, and more!
  • French Onion Dip - No one can resist French onion dip. It's a classic party appetizer!

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5 from 2 reviews

Birthday Party Foods (Menu Planning): 18+ Recipes To Make The Day Special!

Birthday party foods (menu planning): A list of the easiest and most delicious recipes for hosting an epic birthday party. From appetizers to desserts, these recipes are always a hit with kids and adults alike. I've also included some tips and tricks that will help you streamline the menu planning process.
Author | Angela Latimer
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 699kcal
Prep 30 minutes minutes
Cooking 15 minutes minutes
Total Time 45 minutes minutes
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Ingredients
 

Burgers

  • 6 lbs ground beef (I used beef with an 85/15 ratio)
  • 3 tablespoon burger seasoning
  • 12 hamburger buns (twice as many if making ¼-pound burgers)

Toppings

  • bacon (cooked and crisped)
  • red onion (sliced)
  • tomato (sliced)
  • lettuce (washed and leaves separated)
  • dill pickle slices
  • pineapple slices
  • roasted onions & bell peppers
  • mushrooms (sauteed)

Cheese

  • American cheese (sliced)
  • provolone or swiss cheese (sliced)
  • blue cheese crumbles

Condiments

  • burger sauce
  • ketchup
  • mustard
  • mayonnaise
  • BBQ sauce
  • sweet pickle relish

(Note: 2x or 3x only changes the ingredient list)

Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela

Instructions
 

Cook The Burgers

  • Preheat your grill, frying pan, skillet, or flat-top griddle to medium-high heat (425°F / 218°C).
  • Stovetop: Add 1 tablespoon of EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) to the pan as it heats up. (Adding more as needed after batches of burgers).
    Grill: Clean and oil the grates.
  • While things are heating up, portion 6 lbs ground beef into twelve ½-pound patties (or 24 ¼-pound patties).
  • Once your grill or pan is ready, season both sides of the burger patties with the 3 tablespoon burger seasoning and add them immediately to the hot grill or pan. (Work in batches if necessary and wait to season the patties until right before adding them to your pan or grill).
  • Cook for 4 minutes on the first side, then flip the burgers and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the opposite side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
  • Once cooked, transfer the burger patties to a cutting board or plate and cover them loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Repeat with any remaining burger patties.

Set Up The Burger Bar

  • On a large table or surface that is easily accessible to guests, set out the plates and utensils.
  • Place the burgers, 12 hamburger buns, toppings, cheeses, and condiments at the head of the table after the plates. If possible, label the ingredients to help your guests navigate your burger bar more easily. (bacon, red onion, tomato, lettuce, dill pickle slices, pineapple slices, roasted onions & bell peppers, mushrooms, American cheese, provolone or swiss cheese, blue cheese crumbles, burger sauce, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, sweet pickle relish)
  • Allow guests to make their way down the line and assemble their perfect burger!

Notes

  • Save yourself time before the party by prepping all the toppings, vegetables, and condiments in advance. Most ingredients can be prepared 1-2 days in advance and kept in the fridge until needed.
  • To keep your burgers warm and delicious, consider using a chafing dish or warming tray to maintain their temperature. Alternatively, you can cook the burgers in batches, allowing guests to enjoy them fresh off the grill!
  • Turn your burger bar into a friendly competition by inviting guests to submit their best burger creations! You can then have a taste test and award a prize for the most delicious and creative burger.
  • To store: Leftover burger patties and toppings can be placed in an airtight container or Ziploc bag and refrigerated for 3-4 days. Leftover buns can be kept at room temperature in a sealed Ziploc bag for up to 5 days.
  • To reheat: Place leftover burger patties on a metal wire rack on top of a baking sheet and bake them at 400°F (205°C) for 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook the opposite side for 2-3 minutes. Then, assemble your burgers and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 699kcal (35%) | Carbohydrates: 22g (7%) | Protein: 43g (86%) | Fat: 47g (72%) | Saturated Fat: 18g (113%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 161mg (54%) | Sodium: 365mg (16%) | Potassium: 672mg (19%) | Fiber: 1g (4%) | Sugar: 3g (3%) | Vitamin A: 27IU (1%) | Vitamin C: 1mg (1%) | Calcium: 113mg (11%) | Iron: 6mg (33%)
Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can’t wait to see your results! Mention @bake_it_with_love or tag #bake_it_with_love!
Course Beef Dishes, Burgers, Dinner Recipes, Main Course, party foods
Cuisine American
« Amish Sugar Cookies
How To Freeze Avocado »

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Hi there, I'm Angela

I am an avid vintage cookbook collector, cook, baker, and total foodie. I love sharing new, fun, creative recipes and great classic recipes, just like my Grandma used to make! Every recipe on BIWL is tested to ensure that cooks of any experience level can succeed.

Welcome to Bake It With Love. Enjoy!

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