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37 Super Tailgating and Game Day Recipes

By Deborah L Melian

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These super tailgating and game day recipes – finger foods, appetizers, entrees, drinks and desserts – are sure to be easy winners at your next party.

Super Tailgating and Game Day Recipes - 1 - Wisconsin Homemaker

If you’re looking for winning game day food, look no further than this extensive recipe roundup that shares some of my favorite recipes that are not only easy to make but are also low-cost, too.

What Is Good Game Day Food?

For starters, game day food can be anything you want it to be. To be honest, I’ve seen folks go whole hog–no pun intended–or laid back –chips, dip and pretzels.

Liver pates? Only if you really think your guests are up to the challenge.

But all kidding aside, when one searches for game day food usually what you’ll find is a plethora of appetizers, finger foods, as well as these party favorites: Sloppy Joes and Pulled Pork that can be kept warm in a slow cooker.

And, if you are tailgating at a stadium, you might find folks grilling everything from hamburgers, hot dogs, bratwurst, shrimp and salmon. Everything is fair game.

The idea, though, is quick and easy dining for both friends and family and host.

Make it easy on yourself and enjoy the game.

Tailgate Party Tips (at the Stadium)

There are a lot of fair game options when it comes to tailgate party food.

Here in the great state of Wisconsin we like to grill. As mentioned above, bratwurst, hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, and yes, even salmon are a perfect touchdown for any tailgate party. Just be sure to bring these nosh-worthy foods to the game on ice.

Can you serve healthy alternatives? Of course. Many folks opt for healthy stuff like salads, vegetable wraps, and fresh fruit.

It is your party after all, so don’t be afraid to serve up food that best exemplifies, well, you.

And, remember that tailgate parties are meant to engage the populace.

Which means that since you’ll more than likely be lined up side by side alongside other sports enthusiasts in the stadium parking lot, you’ll not only get to meet some awesome folks but you’ll also get inspiration for everything food and frivolity.

Tailgating also encourages folks to think outside-the-box in terms of game day decor. You can deck out your vehicle to show your loyalty to your favorite team or theme. Or play it simple with just a few folding chairs and a cooler. It’s totally up to you.

Still need some tailgate inspiration? Check out this quick flick.

10 Tailgate Party Tips – HGTV

Tailgating Tip: It’s okay to dive right in and eat your favorite finger foods, snacks, entrees and drinks. Just be sure to pace yourself, though–especially on the spirits–because you don’t want to fumble on your way into the stadium–just saying.

RELATED: 4 Secret Tips to the Perfect Tailgating Party (Video)

Super Bowl Party Tips

And, when it comes to hosting a Super Bowl party, again, planning is key.

Taco, nacho, salad, or snack bars are really great ideas if you want to keep things simple, while at the same time providing a variety of options for your guests to nosh on.

When I tackle gatherings like this, I like to also set up snack and drink stations where my friends and family can easily gravitate to while still being able to watch the game.

But, if you don’t have space galore, then you can divvy what space you do have into smaller sections on a counter or kitchen island and serve up your offerings that way.

And, since this is the highlight of gridiron season, remember to include bit of bling and flash to your party digs, too.

Check out this amazing video that offers some fabulous tips and tricks for hosting your own Super Bowl Party.

Super Bowl Party Decor Tips – Simply Preet

As you can see, with a little planning and foresight, you can put together a party that is not only fun but also practical.

Best Game Day and Tailgate Recipes

So, are you ready for some football? It’s time to make some memorable snacks, drinks and treats.

  • Football Finger Foods
  • All-Purpose Appetizers
  • End Zone Entrees
  • Drop Kick Drinks
  • Direct Snap Desserts

Football Finger Foods

You will gain an automatic first down with these no-holds-bar finger foods.

1. Cranberry Bacon Smokies

Smokies Recipe

2. Pepperoni Pizza Puffs

Easy Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Puffs - 1A - Wisconsin Homemaker

3. Smashed Potatoes

Potatoes Fondantes - Smashed Potatoes featured on Wisconsin Homemaker

4. Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Roast Pumpkin and Squash Seeds - 2 - Wisconsin Homemaker

5. Cranberry Meatballs

Spicy Cranberry Cocktail Meatballs - 4 - Wisconsin Homemaker

6. Beef Nachos

Restaurant Style Beef Nachos Recipe - 1 - Wisconsin Homemaker

7. Loaded Hasselback Potatoes

Quick and Easy Hasselback Potatoes with Bacon - 1 - Wisconsin Homemaker

All-Purpose Appetizers

These appetizers will keep your guests well fueled during the four quarters.

8. Creamy Ranch Dip

Homemade Creamy Ranch Salad Dressing Recipe - great as a dip

9. Layered Taco Dip

Layered Taco Dip Recipe - 1 - Wisconsin Homemaker

10. Guacamole

11. Pumpkin Hummus

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus - 2 - Wisconsin Homemaker

12. Creamy Dill Dip

Creamy Dill Dip - 2 - Wisconsin Homemaker

13. Lone Star Salsa

Lone Star Salsa in a Bowl

14. Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo - Salsa Fresca on Wisconsin Homemaker

15. Mango Salsa

Mango Avocado Salsa - WisconsinHomemaker

16. Shrimp Dip

17. Hot Artichoke Dip

Cheesy Artichoke Dip featured on WisconsinHomemaker.com

18. Warm Queso

Mexican Queso Blanco Dip - 3- Wisconsin Homemaker

End Zone Entrees

Hand off your snacking to these game-worthy entree recipes that are sure to please even the toughest linebacker.

19. Bratwurst Reuben Sandwich

Bratwurst Reuben Sandwich featured on Wisconsin Homemaker

20. Brew City Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches

Brew City Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich - 7 - Wisconsin Homemaker

21. Pulled Pork

Cuban Pulled Pork Carnitas Recipe featured on WisconsinHomemaker.com

22. Oven Baked Ribs

Slathered Sweet Baby Rays Ribs

23. Easy Pita Pizzas

Easy Pita Pizzas - cheesy

24. Mom’s Chili

Hearty Chili Recipe with Beans - Chili Bowl

25. Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes Recipe from WisconsinHomemaker.com

26. Chicken Chili

Easy Spicy White Chicken Chili - sm - found on WisconsinHomemaker.com

Drop Kick Drinks

Kick off your party with these one-of-a-kind drinks and cocktails that you can serve with or without alcohol.

27. GaGa Key Lime Margarita

GaGa Key Lime Margarita - 1 - Wisconsin Homemaker

28. Lemon Martini

Refreshing Lemon Martini

29. Spa Mojito

Easy Spa Mojito makes 2 Servings

30. Green Apple Sangria

Green Apple Sangria - Wisconsin Homemaker

Direct Snap Desserts

These game time treats are too good to pass, so be sure to include a variety for one and all.

31. Mini Crustless Cheesecakes

Crustless Mini Cheesecakes - 2 - Wisconsin Homemaker

32. Cherry Parfaits

No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Parfait - 6B - WisconsinHomemaker.com

33. Lime Curd Trifle

Quick Lemon Berry Trifle - ready to serve

34. Football Sugar Cookies

Ann Clark 3-Piece Football Cookie Cutter Set

35. Caramel Apple Cheeseball

Caramel Apple Cheese Ball Recipe - eating cheese ball

36. Pina Colada Cheeseball

Pina Colada Cheese Ball Recipe on Wisconsin Homemaker

37. Death by Chocolate Cake

Doctored Death by Chocolate Cake - 1 - Wisconsin Homemaker

So which were your favorite super tailgating and game day recipes from above? Share your favorite picks in the comments below.

And, for more delicious party food no matter the season or reason, be sure to check out Wisconsin Homemaker’s Recipe Section.

 WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you do try any of Wisconsin Homemaker’s recipes, ideas or products be sure to share your comments below and photos on Instagram or Pinterest with a tag @wisconsinhomemaker and hashtag #wisconsinhomemaker Thanks!


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DISCLAIMER: Deborah L Melian is a participant in the Amazon Service LLC Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. She also is a participant in Google AdSense Affiliate program. 


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About Deborah L Melian

I am a midwestern wife and mother who loves to share family friendly recipes, along with my two cent's worth on everything home and garden. I live in Wisconsin. You can follow me on FACEBOOK • TWITTER • PINTEREST • INSTAGRAM

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***Deborah L Melian is a participant in the Amazon Service LLC Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate she earns from qualifying purchases. She also is a participant in Google AdSense Affiliate program.***

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