FIRE up the grill for the fourth!
There’s just something special about the Fourth of July. It’s a time to slow down, gather with family and friends, fire up the grill, and celebrate the communities we call home.
As we enjoy Independence Day weekend in 2026, we’re also soaking up some extra summertime fun. Whether you’re heading to the lake, hosting a backyard cookout, or simply enjoying a long weekend with loved ones, great food always has a way of bringing everyone together.
To help inspire your holiday menu, we’ve rounded up three festive recipes sure to be stars of the celebration!
Smoked Queso Dip
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage or chorizo, cooked
- 32 oz Velveeta, cubed
- 16 oz Lucerne pepper jack cheese, cubed
- 2 cans Signature Select tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 jalapeño, diced
- ½ onion, diced
Directions
- Add all ingredients to a disposable aluminum pan.
- Place on a smoker at 250°F for 1-2 hours.
- Stir every 30 minutes until melted and creamy.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips.
Why it works: Easy, shareable, and packed with flavor. It also feels right at home from Amarillo to Albuquerque.
Hatch Chile Cheeseburgers
We’re celebrating the flavors of Texas and New Mexico with a burger that’s packed with regional flair.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Signature Select ground beef
- 4 roasted Hatch chiles, chopped
- 8 slices Lucerne pepper jack cheese
- 8 Signature Select hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and onion for topping
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Form ground beef into eight patties and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- During the final minute of cooking, top each burger with chopped Hatch chiles and a slice of pepper jack cheese.
- Toast buns on the grill.
- Assemble with your favorite toppings and serve.
Pair with chips, potato salad, or fresh corn on the cob for an easy holiday feast.
Firecracker Berry Trifle
No Fourth of July celebration is complete without a patriotic dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 prepared angel food cake, cubed
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups blueberries
- 1 container whipped topping
- Fresh mint for garnish
Directions
- Layer cake cubes in a large glass bowl or trifle dish.
- Add a layer of whipped topping.
- Top with strawberries and blueberries.
- Repeat layers until the dish is full.
- Chill for at least one hour before serving.
- Garnish with mint and a few extra berries.
It’s light, colorful, and the perfect way to cool off after a day in the summer sun.
However you’re celebrating this Independence Day, we hope it’s filled with laughter, great food, and time spent with the people who matter most.
From all of us at The United Family, thank you for allowing us to be part of your table, your traditions, and your communities. We wish you a safe, joyful Fourth of July and a wonderful holiday weekend.
Happy Fourth! 🇺🇸🍔🍓🎆
