Tailgating isn’t complete without a spread that makes people forget about the game for a minute. These 17 recipes are designed to keep the crowd happy and full, no matter how intense the game gets. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just there for the snacks, this lineup won’t disappoint. Warning: You might be more popular than the quarterback by the end of the day.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Everyone loves a good dip at tailgate parties, and Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd favorite for a reason. It has the perfect balance of creamy and spicy, ensuring every scoop is packed with flavor. It’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy, making it a must-have at any gathering. Pair it with chips or fresh veggies for an irresistible snack.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Loaded Tater Tots
There’s nothing like Loaded Tater Tots to kick the fun up a notch. They’re crispy, cheesy, and come with a variety of toppings to please everyone. Whether you’re a fan of sour cream, bacon bits, or green onions, these tots have you covered. They’re the ultimate comfort food that brings people together.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Crunchy Onion Rings
For those who crave something crunchy, Crunchy Onion Rings are a perfect choice. These golden rings are a classic snack that never fails to impress. Ideal for munching on while waiting for the game to start, they’re a hit with adults and kids alike. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a simple yet fulfilling treat.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger brings the familiar taste of KFC into your home with a twist. It’s a spicy, juicy burger that satisfies the craving for fast food with a homemade touch. Building this burger is part of the fun and eating it is even better. It’s the kind of burger that makes you look forward to halftime.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger
Garlic Bread
Nothing starts a tailgate party like a warm, buttery slice of Garlic Bread straight off the grill. It’s simple to prepare and always a hit, making it a must-have for any gathering. Whether it’s alongside a main dish or just as a snack to keep the hunger at bay until the big game starts, it fits perfectly. Just remember to make enough because it tends to disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
When looking for a snack that’s both irresistible and easy to munch on, Bacon Wrapped Smokies are your go-to. These little bites pack a punch of flavor, wrapped in crispy bacon that makes them hard to resist. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd without missing any of the action. Watching the game becomes even more exciting with a plate of these in hand.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls
For those who love a bit of spice and everything nice, Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are the perfect tailgate treat. This snack combines the creaminess of cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeño and the crunchiness of bacon. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together, ready to cheer on their team. Just be warned, they might be more popular than the game itself!
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls
Chipotle Grilled Chicken
Nothing says tailgate like the smoky aroma of Chipotle Grilled Chicken filling the air. This dish brings a bold taste to the table, with chipotle peppers offering a smoky heat that’s hard to beat. It’s easy to prepare in advance, leaving more time to enjoy the festivities. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with almost any side dish, making your menu planning a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders offer a sweet and savory taste that transports you straight to the islands. They’re the perfect handheld food, making them ideal for tailgates where standing and socializing is part of the fun. The combination of tender pork and Hawaiian flavors makes every bite a mini vacation. And let’s not forget the ease of serving them to a crowd!
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders
Chick-fil-A Nuggets
Fans of fast-food favorites will fall head over heels for Chick-fil-A Nuggets you can make right at your tailgate. These nuggets offer that beloved taste, ensuring a winning meal before the game even starts. They’re a great way to bring the fast-food experience to your tailgate without the drive-thru. Best of all, their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for snacking throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets
Copycat Smash Burger
Bringing the essence of your favorite burger joint to the parking lot, Copycat Smash Burger is a game changer. It’s the kind of burger that requires extra napkins and is totally worth it. The thin, crispy edges and juicy center make every bite better than the last. It’s a sure bet to keep the crowd satisfied until halftime.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger
Easy Chicken Tenders
Easy to prepare and always a hit, Easy Chicken Tenders are a foolproof addition to any tailgate. They’re the ultimate finger food, loved by fans of all ages. Whether dipped in honey mustard, ranch, or ketchup, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, they cook up fast, meaning more time enjoying the game and less time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders
Taco Casserole
Taco Casserole brings a fun and festive twist to the traditional tailgate menu. It’s like having a taco in casserole form, ensuring each bite is filled with your favorite taco flavors. Easy to share and even easier to love, it makes feeding a hungry crowd simple. Once you bring this dish out, expect everyone to gather around for a taste.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole
Spinach Artichoke Dip
This dip is the ultimate sharing dish, perfect for bringing people together. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it hard to stop dipping. Spinach Artichoke Dip is a classic that never fails to please, ensuring everyone’s in a good mood for kickoff. Whether it’s with bread, chips, or veggies, it gets devoured every time.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip
Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes
Tailgate meals don’t get much more comforting than Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes. They take the beloved flavors of buffalo chicken and combine them with the hearty goodness of baked potatoes. This dish is a surefire way to kick the flavor up a notch, ensuring everyone’s warm and contented. And it’s a creative way to enjoy the game-day favorite without the mess of wings.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes
Korean Corn Dogs
Add a twist to your tailgate with Korean Corn Dogs, a street food favorite that’s fun to eat and even more fun to share. These corn dogs offer a unique blend of flavors and textures, making them a memorable addition to any tailgate spread. They’re a hands-on pick that’ll have everyone talking. Between the crunch and the sweet and savory flavors, it’s a real hit.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs
Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ham and Cheese Sliders are the little sandwiches that could. They pack all the flavors of a hearty ham and cheese sandwich into a bite-sized slider that’s perfect for tailgating. Easy to bake in bulk and loved by all ages, they keep the party going. Whether it’s for a small family tailgate or a large gathering, these sliders are always a smart play.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders