Tailgate Game Day Recipes
Tailgating is more than just a pre-game ritual—it's a celebration of camaraderie, food, and football. As the former Executive Chef for CenturyLink (now Lumen Field) stadium and someone who had the privilege of traveling with the Seahawks to their Super Bowl victory in 2014, I've seen firsthand how great food can elevate the game day experience. Tailgating treats are all about portability and bold flavors that can be enjoyed on the go, and with the NFL 2024 season just 5 days away, it's the perfect time to incorporate seasonal ingredients into your tailgate spread. And of course, these are great ideas for enjoying game day at home with fellow fans or rivals to keep it interesting!
From savory finger foods to irresistible dips, these recipes are designed to make your tailgate the envy of the parking lot. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines or setting up a spread at home, these dishes will keep the spirit of the game alive while satisfying your appetite. So, get ready to fire up the grill, break out the coolers, and dive into some of the best tailgating treats that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
These Asian Buffalo wings combine the perfect balance of heat and umami, featuring crispy, seasoned chicken wings tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made with BBQ, buffalo, and soy sauce, with a hint of honey and sriracha for a kick. Finished with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of black and white sesame seeds, these wings are an irresistible fusion of flavors perfect for any game day spread.
One of my most popular recipes, these crab fries are loaded with flavor, featuring crispy fries smothered in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream, Boursin cheese, cream cheese, and a hint of Parmesan. Topped with tender crab meat, a touch of garlic, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, these fries are finished with a squeeze of lemon for a burst of brightness, creating the ultimate indulgent snack.
These Buffalo cauliflower bites are a spicy, plant-based alternative to traditional wings, featuring crispy, oven-baked cauliflower coated in a flavorful batter made with flour, paprika, garlic powder, and oat milk. Tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce with a hint of honey, these bites offer the perfect combination of heat and sweetness, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.
This spicy guacamole brings the heat with fresh jalapeño, balanced by the creamy richness of avocado and the bright flavors of lime and cilantro. Finished with a touch of finely diced onion and a sprinkle of kosher salt, it's the perfect zesty dip for chips or topping for tacos.
This creamy queso dip combines the sharpness of cheddar and the smoothness of jack cheese, melted together with butter, garlic, and a blend of evaporated milk and regular milk for an ultra-silky texture. Thickened with cornstarch and brightened with a splash of lemon or lime juice, this dip is perfect for drizzling over nachos or serving with your favorite chips.
Steak fries are thick-cut, golden potatoes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect side for a juicy steak or a hearty snack on their own. Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, these fries are baked or fried to perfection, offering a satisfying bite with every piece.
Mac and cheese is a fantastic game day food. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a variety of snacks and can be easily made in large batches. Whether served as a comforting side or a main dish, it’s sure to be a hit at any game day gathering. My creamy mac 'n cheese features a velvety cheese sauce made with a blend of gruyere, cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, creating an indulgent, rich flavor. Topped with a crispy panko mixture sautéed in butter and garlic, this dish offers the ideal balance of creamy and crunchy textures, making it a standout game day food.
It doesn’t feel like game day with out classic Pico de gallo and tortilla chips. This vibrant, fresh salsa made with ripe tomatoes, crisp onions, and zesty lime juice, brings a burst of flavor. Enhanced with chopped cilantro and a touch of jalapeño for heat, it's the perfect accompaniment for tacos, chips, or grilled meats.
