Best Tailgating Food

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Published: 07/07/2021 | Updated: 04/03/2024

Tailgating and party food go hand in hand! Here are some of our favorite game day recipes that are sure to please a crowd of hungry eaters!

Tailgating is a time-honored tradition for sports fans across the country. It’s a great opportunity to get together with friends and family before the football game and enjoy some good food and drinks. If you’re looking for some ideas for the best tailgating food, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite recipes that are perfect for game day or football season.

1. Chipped Beef Dip

   
   This delicious dip only needs a few ingredients and is even better if you make it the day ahead of time! Who doesn’t want a dip that you don’t have to fuss with at the last minute when guests are arriving!
   I love this recipe because it’s so easy to throw together. It’s also great for parties because it doesn’t take long to prepare. The only thing I don’t like about it is that it has a lot of fat. But if you want something healthier, try making this recipe using ground turkey instead of ground beef.

   Get the recipe here >> Chipped Beef Dip Recipe

2. Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball

   
   This jalapeno popper cheese ball has a hefty kick for all those spicy food fans at your party! This is another one that can be prepared ahead of time so there’s no last minute rushing around.
   The first thing I do when I start making cheese balls is to take out all the ingredients except the cream cheese. Then I add the cream cheese and mix it well. Next, I add the jalapeño peppers and mix them in. Finally, I add the bacon bits and mix everything together.

   Get the recipe here >> Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball

3. Avocado Deviled Eggs

   I actually don’t think it’s an option for me to not make these for game day! They are sooo good and my husband has declared them his favorite deviled eggs ever which is quite the proclamation coming from him!

   Get the recipe here >> Avocado Deviled Eggs

4. Bacon Corn Dip

   
   This dip has a few layers, but is SO worth it! I actually almost always make 2 of these at the same time because they get devoured so quickly! I’ve learned my lesson on this one.
   I love bacon! But it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. It’s high in saturated fat and calories, which can lead to weight gain. Plus, it has a strong smell that some people find off-putting.

   Get the recipe here >> Bacon Corn Dip

5. Fried Mushrooms

   
   These are one of the most popular recipes on this site for good reason, they are bite-size morsels of deliciousness! You can even crumb the mushrooms ahead of time so you just need to quick air fry them as guests arrive. They are also packed with protein and fiber so they make an excellent healthy appetizer.

   Get the recipe here >> Fried Mushrooms

6. Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachos

   
   What’s a game day without a pan of nachos?? Not a good one if you ask me! This fun twist on the standard nachos will be devoured in no time.
   I love this recipe because it’s so easy to throw together. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers from last night’s dinner. The pork shoulder is slow-cooked in beer and spices, then shredded into nacho cheese sauce. Then we top it off with cheddar, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole.

   Get the recipe here >> Hawaiian Pulled Pork Nachos

7. Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

   
   One of the most popular appetizers at any party or get-together is egg rolls. They are versatile, easy to make, and everyone seems to love them. But what if you want something a little bit different? Why not try buffalo chicken egg rolls! They are just as easy to make as regular egg rolls, but they have a spicy, buffalo chicken flavor that everyone will love.
   Every great tailgating party needs something buffalo-flavored and these egg rolls fit the bill. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing to dip them in and watch them disappear!

   Get the recipe here >> Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

8. BBQ Meatballs

   
   Meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser, and when you add some barbecue sauce into the mix, they’re irresistible! This recipe is simple to follow and will result in delicious, moist meatballs that everyone will love. Serve them as an appetizer at your next party, or enjoy them as a main course with some sides.
   Make these meatballs weeks ahead of time and freeze them until you’re ready to serve. Then just quick make the sauce and bake them off!

   Click here for the recipe >> BBQ Meatballs

9. Pork BBQ Sandwich

   
   There are many different types of barbecue, but one of the most popular is pork BBQ. It is simple to make and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. For this recipe, you will need: a pork roast, bbq sauce, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt. First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Then, cut the pork roast into 1-inch cubes.
   Make a giant crockpot of this pork bbq and just set out with some rolls and coleslaw. Every good party needs one main dish and this is about as easy as they come!

   Get the recipe here >> Pork BBQ Sandwich

10. Peanut Butter Pretzel Bites

    
    All parties need something sweet to snack on. This combination of salty and sweet in bite-size morsels will be a hit even with someone who claims they aren’t big on desserts!
    This recipe is perfect for those days when you don’t feel like cooking anything elaborate. All you need is a few minutes to put together and you’ll have a yummy treat that everyone will love. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top before baking.

    Get the recipe here >> Peanut Butter Pretzel Bites

    In conclusion, tailgating is a great opportunity to have a little fun with friends, cheer for your team, or just enjoy the sun. For those that are planning on hosting their own tailgates, we hope these tailgate food ideas provide you with some great ideas to make your next tailgate extra special!