20 Tailgate Treats To Kick Off Football Season
Football season is upon us, and that means one thing – it’s time to fire up the grill, dust off your favorite team jersey, and gather with friends and family for some spirited tailgating! Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love the lively atmosphere, no tailgate party is complete without delicious treats to fuel the excitement. From classic game day favorites to creative new recipes, here are 20 crowd-pleasing tailgate treats that will kick off your football season with a bang.
1. Loaded Nacho Dip
Start your tailgate party on the right foot with a mouthwatering loaded nacho dip. Layered with creamy cheese, zesty salsa, savory ground beef, and topped with your favorite toppings, this dip is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a side of tortilla chips and watch it disappear in no time!
2. Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Add a spicy twist to your tailgate menu with buffalo chicken sliders. Tender, shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, topped with crunchy coleslaw, and sandwiched between soft slider buns – these little sandwiches pack a flavorful punch that will keep your guests coming back for more.
3. Mini Meatball Subs
Who can resist a mini meatball sub? These bite-sized sandwiches are filled with juicy meatballs, ooey-gooey melted cheese, and a tangy marinara sauce. They are easy to make ahead of time and can be easily enjoyed without the mess.
4. Grilled Bratwurst
No football tailgate is complete without sizzling bratwurst hot off the grill. Serve them on fresh buns with sauerkraut, onions, and your favorite condiments. These savory sausages are a classic game day treat that always hits the spot.
5. Loaded Baked Potato Skins
If you’re looking for a hearty, indulgent snack, loaded baked potato skins are the way to go. Crispy potato skins loaded with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream are the ultimate comfort food for game day.
6. Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Combine two game day favorites into one delicious treat with a barbecue chicken pizza. Top a crispy pizza crust with tangy barbecue sauce, shredded chicken, diced onions, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and you’ll have a winning dish that will be devoured in no time.
7. Mini Corn Dogs
Impress your guests with adorable mini corn dogs. These bite-sized crowd-pleasers are easy to make by dipping cocktail-sized sausages in a cornmeal batter and frying them until golden. Serve with a side of ketchup or mustard for dipping, and watch them disappear from the platter in an instant.
8. Jalapeno Poppers
If you like a little bit of heat, jalapeno poppers are the perfect tailgate treat. Stuff fresh jalapeno peppers with a cream cheese and cheddar filling, wrap them in bacon, and pop them on the grill or in the oven until melty and delicious. These spicy, cheesy bites will have your taste buds cheering.
9. Loaded Tater Tots
Amp up your tater tots game with some creative toppings. Load these crispy potato bites with melted cheese, bacon bits, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a finger-licking-good snack that everyone will love.
10. Guacamole with Homemade Tortilla Chips
No tailgate party is complete without a fresh bowl of guacamole. Whip up a batch of homemade tortilla chips by slicing and frying corn tortillas until crispy. Serve with your flavorful guacamole, and you have the perfect game day appetizer.
11. Pulled Pork Sliders
Slow-cooked, tender pulled pork nestled in soft slider buns is a must-have for any football gathering. Top it with a tangy coleslaw for added crunch and flavor. These sliders are a touchdown for your taste buds!
12. Walking Tacos
Add some fun to your tailgate by serving walking tacos. Fill individual bags of corn chips with all your favorite taco toppings – seasoned ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Grab a fork and enjoy this portable twist on a classic Mexican dish.
13. Loaded Sausage and Pepper Skewers
Skewers are a great option if you want to serve meat and veggies in a single dish. Thread chunks of smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and onions onto skewers, grill until charred and juicy, and serve with a side of barbecue sauce. These skewers are bursting with flavor and are perfect for tailgating.
14. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A warm and creamy spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Serve it with chunks of crusty bread or tortilla chips, and your guests will flock to the dip station all day long.
15. Mini Pigs in a Blanket
These bite-sized treats are always a hit at tailgate parties. Wrap cocktail-sized sausages in crescent roll dough and bake until golden brown. Serve them with your favorite mustard or ketchup, and you’ll have a classic finger food that never goes out of style.
16. Loaded French Fries
Upgrade your french fry game with loaded fries. Top crispy fries with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing or barbecue sauce. These indulgent fries will disappear in no time.
17. Caprese Skewers
For a lighter option, serve caprese skewers at your tailgate party. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. These colorful and refreshing skewers are perfect for those looking for a healthier snack.
18. Pepperoni Pizza Rolls
If you’re craving pizza flavors in bite-sized form, try pepperoni pizza rolls. Wrap cheese and pepperoni in puff pastry, bake until golden and bubbly, and serve with marinara sauce for dipping. These savory rolls are an irresistible addition to your game day spread.
19. Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
No tailgate party is complete without a sweet treat. Jazz up the classic rice krispie treats by adding chunks of chocolate and drizzling them with melted chocolate. These chewy, chocolatey squares will satisfy any sweet tooth.
20. Apple Nachos
For a healthier dessert option, serve apple nachos. Slice apples into thin rounds, arrange them on a platter, and drizzle with peanut butter, honey, and sprinkle with granola and chocolate chips. These fruity nachos are both delicious and satisfying.
Conclusion
No matter which team you’re rooting for, these 20 tailgate treats will score big points with your fellow fans. From savory sliders and loaded dips to sweet indulgences, there’s something for everyone at your football gathering. So fire up that grill, stock up on ingredients, and get ready to kick off the football season with a feast that will have everyone cheering!
*Source www.tastingtable.com
