20 recipes to spice up your tailgate (2024)

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Honey bacon-wrapped tater tots | Salty, smoky, sweet and crunchy, these honey-soaked, bacon-wrapped tater tots have something for everyone. And the three ingredients in this recipe's name are the only things you need. For the honey bacon-wrapped tater tots recipe, click here.” title=”Honey bacon-wrapped tater tots | Salty, smoky, sweet and crunchy, these honey-soaked, bacon-wrapped tater tots have something for everyone. And the three ingredients in this recipe’s name are the only things you need. For the honey bacon-wrapped tater tots recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/2LZOUPCZBNDPJHTGXDX3G5UL6M.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Everything bagel pigs in a blanket | If you thought pigs in a blanket couldn't get any better, we have three words for you: everything bagel seasoning. Cream cheese and scallions bring even more NYC-inspo to this party-time classic. For the everything bagel pigs in a blanket recipe, click here.” title=”Everything bagel pigs in a blanket | If you thought pigs in a blanket couldn’t get any better, we have three words for you: everything bagel seasoning. Cream cheese and scallions bring even more NYC-inspo to this party-time classic. For the everything bagel pigs in a blanket recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/FBGFYOUCLIMKECSP2BK7MCDU5Y.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Buffalo chicken dip | You know it. You love it. Buffalo chicken dip is one of the best dishes to bring to any party, period, and it's a must-have for any game day gathering, which includes tailgating. For the buffalo chicken dip recipe, click here.” title=”Buffalo chicken dip | You know it. You love it. Buffalo chicken dip is one of the best dishes to bring to any party, period, and it’s a must-have for any game day gathering, which includes tailgating. For the buffalo chicken dip recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/N24HIU5TWIJHOBY3CHCDQ72IPE.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Salsa fresca | Also known as pico de gallo, this easy, no-cook salsa recipe is perfect for hot days at the very beginning of football season, especially when garden-fresh tomatoes are at their ripest. For the salsa fresca recipe, click here.” title=”Salsa fresca | Also known as pico de gallo, this easy, no-cook salsa recipe is perfect for hot days at the very beginning of football season, especially when garden-fresh tomatoes are at their ripest. For the salsa fresca recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/GMAF2VWILWW57E44CMGMKTHQRY.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Easy 7-layer dip | Seven-layer dip is a classic no-cook dip that tastes equally good on pretzels, tortilla chips and corn chips. Now, black olives, the sixth layer of this dip, are controversial. If your fellow tailgaters aren't fans, swap those olives out for black beans, pickled onions or jalapeños, bell peppers or canned green chiles. For the easy 7-layer dip recipe, click here.” title=”Easy 7-layer dip | Seven-layer dip is a classic no-cook dip that tastes equally good on pretzels, tortilla chips and corn chips. Now, black olives, the sixth layer of this dip, are controversial. If your fellow tailgaters aren’t fans, swap those olives out for black beans, pickled onions or jalapeños, bell peppers or canned green chiles. For the easy 7-layer dip recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/AVYIOJ2H7G37PNQA2XEDZVAMYM.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Pretzel bites with spicy cheddar dip | Pretzels and cheese dip are a classic stadium food, but you can easily make pretzels at home and snack on them before the big game. Trust us; this recipe will impress your friends. For the pretzel bites with spicy cheddar dip recipe, click here.” title=”Pretzel bites with spicy cheddar dip | Pretzels and cheese dip are a classic stadium food, but you can easily make pretzels at home and snack on them before the big game. Trust us; this recipe will impress your friends. For the pretzel bites with spicy cheddar dip recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/QRPYRQZZFWIGFTW76N6J6AADRQ.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Spicy bacon and black pepper baked beans | Baked beans go well with everything, from burgers and barbecue to cold-cut sandwiches and fried chicken. This recipe truly calls for these to be oven-baked, but you could easily transfer them to a slow cooker for your tailgate. For the spicy bacon and black pepper baked beans recipe, click here.” title=”Spicy bacon and black pepper baked beans | Baked beans go well with everything, from burgers and barbecue to cold-cut sandwiches and fried chicken. This recipe truly calls for these to be oven-baked, but you could easily transfer them to a slow cooker for your tailgate. For the spicy bacon and black pepper baked beans recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/RJIHN3LHLTWAZTUYCJEJ4VDUQQ.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="All-American macaroni salad | A picnic classic, this easy macaroni salad is great for tailgates when you don't have access to a grill or slow cooker. For the all-American macaroni salad recipe, click here.” title=”All-American macaroni salad | A picnic classic, this easy macaroni salad is great for tailgates when you don’t have access to a grill or slow cooker. For the all-American macaroni salad recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/Y4G2UQ52Y4YP6XFOCX2N2XJF7M.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Lemon dill potato salad with peas | If you're looking for a new twist on classic potato salad, this lemony dill potato salad with peas is your recipe. The lemon and fresh herbs add an irresistible brightness to the dish and make the mayo-based dressing feel lighter. For the lemon dill potato salad with peas recipe, click here.” title=”Lemon dill potato salad with peas | If you’re looking for a new twist on classic potato salad, this lemony dill potato salad with peas is your recipe. The lemon and fresh herbs add an irresistible brightness to the dish and make the mayo-based dressing feel lighter. For the lemon dill potato salad with peas recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/AOYHC5UQDLVLUPKR64TYP4KQNQ.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Gooey, creamy mac and cheese | One of the all-time best recipes for cheese fiends, this ooey, gooey mac and cheese uses cheddar, Taleggio, fontina and Gouda to add tons of dimension to an all-time classic cookout side. For the gooey, creamy mac and cheese recipe, click here.” title=”Gooey, creamy mac and cheese | One of the all-time best recipes for cheese fiends, this ooey, gooey mac and cheese uses cheddar, Taleggio, fontina and Gouda to add tons of dimension to an all-time classic cookout side. For the gooey, creamy mac and cheese recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/CWRN6JQIOGTQ2GJ3G6F5OLXTBI.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Grilled teriyaki mango skewers | One of the best vegetarian-friendly grilling recipes, these teriyaki skewers have a mix of mango and veggies, and it surprisingly works. Serve as is or alongside other grilled dishes as a side. For the grilled teriyaki mango skewers recipe, click here.” title=”Grilled teriyaki mango skewers | One of the best vegetarian-friendly grilling recipes, these teriyaki skewers have a mix of mango and veggies, and it surprisingly works. Serve as is or alongside other grilled dishes as a side. For the grilled teriyaki mango skewers recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/7UPIFDKQCT4PROAKEUI5CVCABE.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Messy barbacoa beef nachos | In our opinion, tailgating is all about the meat. Sure, you can serve nachos loaded with cheese, sour cream and salsa. Or, you can go the extra mile and make melt-in-your-mouth beef barbacoa to top your chips. This beef is one of our favorite slow cooker recipes and can also be used for tacos. For the messy barbacoa beef nachos recipe, click here” title=”Messy barbacoa beef nachos | In our opinion, tailgating is all about the meat. Sure, you can serve nachos loaded with cheese, sour cream and salsa. Or, you can go the extra mile and make melt-in-your-mouth beef barbacoa to top your chips. This beef is one of our favorite slow cooker recipes and can also be used for tacos. For the messy barbacoa beef nachos recipe, click here” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/DZFW4ZQK4A2GOCNEBMSBVBC2NQ.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Beer-cooked Bratwurst with sweet onions | Tailgating is practically a way of life in the fall in the Midwest, and these beer-cooked brats are about as Midwestern as you can get. Serve with a quick homemade sauerkraut and a punched-up Dijon mustard. For the beer-cooked Bratwurst with sweet onions recipe, click here.” title=”Beer-cooked Bratwurst with sweet onions | Tailgating is practically a way of life in the fall in the Midwest, and these beer-cooked brats are about as Midwestern as you can get. Serve with a quick homemade sauerkraut and a punched-up Dijon mustard. For the beer-cooked Bratwurst with sweet onions recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/337DBX64ZNANGPNJ4EOKWPPQCM.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Beef and brat chili with white beans | When it comes to game day comfort foods, chili is the No. 1 draft pick. White beans and bratwurst add an extra layer of heartiness to this savory beef chuck chili. For the beef and brat chili with white beans recipe, click here.” title=”Beef and brat chili with white beans | When it comes to game day comfort foods, chili is the No. 1 draft pick. White beans and bratwurst add an extra layer of heartiness to this savory beef chuck chili. For the beef and brat chili with white beans recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/PJLFIBUNFL2QCYV3FVV63GXOSE.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Three-bean vegetarian chili | Don't leave out the vegetarians or vegans at your cookout. This three-bean chili is 100% plant-based but tastes just as good as a meaty chili. For the three-bean vegetarian chili recipe, click here.” title=”Three-bean vegetarian chili | Don’t leave out the vegetarians or vegans at your cookout. This three-bean chili is 100% plant-based but tastes just as good as a meaty chili. For the three-bean vegetarian chili recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/B4PZUFEVHGGTQ5LWO4AU5DFN3A.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Cheesehead sliders | Of course, no tailgate would be complete without some good ol' fashioned burgers. These bite-sized, cheese-topped sliders are the perfect patty for your tailgate. Their slider size means you have plenty of room for all the other grub on your plate. For the cheesehead sliders recipe, click here.” title=”Cheesehead sliders | Of course, no tailgate would be complete without some good ol’ fashioned burgers. These bite-sized, cheese-topped sliders are the perfect patty for your tailgate. Their slider size means you have plenty of room for all the other grub on your plate. For the cheesehead sliders recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/BM6BKGYV77JMTPZH5QIMHCXRN4.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Herb-rubbed baby back ribs | It may seem like a lot of work goes into buying and cooking the best ribs ever, but this herb-rubbed rib recipe proves that doesn't have to be the case. The blend of spices makes these baby back ribs so flavorful, you don't even need barbecue sauce! For the herb-rubbed baby back ribs recipe, click here.” title=”Herb-rubbed baby back ribs | It may seem like a lot of work goes into buying and cooking the best ribs ever, but this herb-rubbed rib recipe proves that doesn’t have to be the case. The blend of spices makes these baby back ribs so flavorful, you don’t even need barbecue sauce! For the herb-rubbed baby back ribs recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/KQL2OVYPGSYSNXZ7BTPUBMFOQE.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Pulled pork sandwiches | Pulled pork, made from pork shoulder, is a deeply versatile ingredient. Here, it's seasoned simply with fresh herbs and white wine, elevating this classic game day recipe. For the pulled pork sandwiches recipe, click here.” title=”Pulled pork sandwiches | Pulled pork, made from pork shoulder, is a deeply versatile ingredient. Here, it’s seasoned simply with fresh herbs and white wine, elevating this classic game day recipe. For the pulled pork sandwiches recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/F656W7F67OMW6PESYN5AURSZEI.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Not dogs | Yeah, you can grill up some franks or vegan hot dogs at your cookout, but what's the fun in that? These Not Dogs are made with carrots, spices and chipotles in adobo, resulting in a classic smoky flavor. It's a creative vegetarian and vegan twist on a tailgate staple. For the not dogs recipe, click here.” title=”Not dogs | Yeah, you can grill up some franks or vegan hot dogs at your cookout, but what’s the fun in that? These Not Dogs are made with carrots, spices and chipotles in adobo, resulting in a classic smoky flavor. It’s a creative vegetarian and vegan twist on a tailgate staple. For the not dogs recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/UHKB3WBPVYYEI5MI4HD75ZVCPA.jpg”>

<img loading="" class="lazyload size-article_feature" data-sizes="auto" alt="Honey garlic chicken wings | Chicken wings and game day go together like peanut butter and jelly. This recipe is perfect for tailgates because the wings are cooked in a slow cooker. For the honey garlic chicken wings recipe, click here.” title=”Honey garlic chicken wings | Chicken wings and game day go together like peanut butter and jelly. This recipe is perfect for tailgates because the wings are cooked in a slow cooker. For the honey garlic chicken wings recipe, click here.” data-src=”/wp-content/uploads/migration/2021/09/03/727GH6LV6S4O2CQQSEAAWLUWQY.jpg”>

20 recipes to spice up your tailgate (2024)

FAQs

What is tailgate food menu? ›

Classic tailgating recipes like deviled eggs and pimiento cheese team up with new players like Bacon-Wrapped Party Poppers and Buffalo Chicken Dip to give your tailgating spread the crowd appeal needed to satisfy a hungry group from one Saturday to the next.

What should I take for a cold tailgate? ›

Good food options to bring to a tailgate include things like sandwiches, cold salads, chips, dips, and cookies.

How do you heat food for a tailgate? ›

You can also place your wrapped-up food items into an empty oven-safe dish and then put them into the oven on low heat for 10-15 minutes before you leave for the tailgate party. This will help ensure that your food is nice and warm when you're ready to eat.

What are the most popular finger foods for parties? ›

Easy Finger Food Recipes to Make Ahead
  • Sheet Pan Nachos. ...
  • Cheese Puffs. ...
  • Cheesy Garlic Bread. ...
  • Vegetarian Quesadillas. ...
  • Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus. ...
  • Slow-Cooker Jelly Meatballs. ...
  • Loaded Cheese Ball Bites. ...
  • Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts. Treat your guests to a sweet and savory appetizer with bacon-wrapped water chestnuts.
Jan 10, 2024

What are the most common party foods? ›

38 Ideas For Party Food That Will Please Any Crowd
  • Ham & Cheese Pull-Apart Bread. ...
  • Garlic Parmesan Potato Stackers. ...
  • BBQ Pulled Pork Fries. ...
  • Peanut Butter Blueberry Frozen Yogurt Bites. ...
  • Chocolate Caramel Oat Bars (Carmelitas) ...
  • Curly Fries. tasty.co. ...
  • Strawberry Cheesecake Crackers. tasty.co. ...
  • Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas. tasty.co.
Dec 21, 2023

What is a tailgate dinner? ›

Tailgating, which primarily takes place in the United States and Canada, often involves consuming alcoholic beverages while barbecuing and grilling food. Tailgate parties occur in the parking lots at stadiums and arenas, before and occasionally after games, festivals, and concerts.

What do you do at a tailgating party? ›

Tailgate parties typically consist of grilling out, eating and drinking, listening to music, and talking with friends about the upcoming event.

What makes a fun tailgate? ›

Spice up your tailgate party by setting up games to entertain guests of all ages. This can range from classic tailgate games like ladder toss or bocce ball to trivia or a friendly wager on the game's outcome. Make sure to have a variety of options so everyone has something they can enjoy.

What is the best tailgate food that doesn t need to be heated? ›

Snacks/Dips
  • Hot Crab Dip with bread.
  • Kettle Corn with Almond Footballs.
  • Creamy Cold Spinach Dip with chips.
  • Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip with chips.
  • Whipped Pumpkin Dip with Nilla wafers.
  • Cold Bean Dip with chips.
  • Hot Mexican Bean Dip with chips.
  • Creamy Corn Dip with chips.
Dec 7, 2022

What tailgate food does not need to be refrigerated? ›

Also be sure to round out your menu with a few non-perishable snacks that don't require refrigeration like pretzels, chips, snack mixes, and nuts. No matter how well your team plays, your tailgate spread is sure to score.

How do you keep burgers warm at tailgate? ›

Keep cooked meats hot by setting them to the side of the grill rack, not directly over the coals where they could overcook. If you're at home, the cooked meat can be kept hot in an oven set at approximately 200 °F, in a chafing dish or slow cooker, or on a warming tray.

How do you keep food warm for hours? ›

Chafing dishes, preheated warming trays, multicookers, slow cookers or toaster ovens may also be used to keep food warm.

How do you make homemade dish warmer? ›

Place a heating pad on a heat-safe surface, cover it with a decorative towel, and set your dish on top for a DIY warming option.

Who has the number one tailgate in the NFL? ›

Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, might be the fifth largest in the NFL, but when it comes to tailgating, they make a strong claim for the No. 1 spot, based solely on the food. Known for their mind-blowing barbecue recipes, tailgaters at Arrowhead put on a show in the parking lot during pregame festivities.

What snacks are good for trunk shows? ›

Simple, stylish treats to serve at trunk shows and in-home...
  • Cheddar Cornbread Mini-Muffins are so moist they can sit out for hours without getting stale. ...
  • You want simple, no-mess foods, such as Vodka Tomatoes With Celery Salt. ...
  • Chipotle-Cheese Dip with Pepperidge Farms Baked Sesame Sticks.
Apr 10, 2012

What is the best lot to tailgate at the Rose Bowl? ›

Brookside Golf Course - Lot 7 - Pasadena, CA Reserve A Spot. The Brookside golf course in Pasadena is the ultimate place to tailgate before a game at the Rose Bowl.

Who has the best tailgating fans in the NFL? ›

In a study by Crestline, Lions fans were ranked fourth among the most hardcore tailgaters, with a 78.30 "Tailgating Score." New Orleans Saints fans topped the list with a 93.41 Tailgating Score, followed by the Tennessee Titans and Philadelphia Eagles. Dallas Cowboys fans rounded out the top five.

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