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    Tailgating, Tailgate Food, Tailgate Recipes

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    23 Min Read

    The top 34 tailgate food ideas

    The Best Foods for Tailgate Parties

    Tailgating is a beloved tradition for many sports fans, providing an opportunity to socialize and show support for their favorite teams before the big game. While the main attraction may be the game itself and rooting on your favorite team, the game day food is an integral part of the tailgating experience. Whether you’re hosting your own tailgate or attending someone else’s, here are some delicious and crowd-pleasing tailgate recipes to include in your spread for you and your party guests.

    1. Grilled Burgers and Hot Dogs

    There’s nothing quite like the classic combination of burgers and hot dogs at a tailgate. Grilling this crowd pleaser is an easy and efficient way to feed a crowd, and there are endless options for topping them with your favorite special sauce and fixings.

    Just be sure to have a good supply of buns on hand, as well as some vegetarian options for those who don’t eat meat. Also, have some potato chips on hand for a traditional side.

    1. Chicken Wings

    A big batch of chicken wings is always a hit at a tailgate, as they’re easy to eat and can be cooked in a variety of ways.

    Whether you prefer them grilled, fried crispy wings or baked, there’s a wing recipe out there to suit your tastes. For a spicy kick, try a batch of buffalo wings with frank's red hot sauce and a blue cheese dipping sauce. Or, for a sweeter option, try honey BBQ wings with a side of ranch dressing. Whatever you do, don't forget the carrot sticks and celery.

    1. Nachos

    Nachos are the perfect tailgate food – they’re easy to transport, easy to eat, and can be customized to suit any preference.

    Simply layer chips, cheese, and your choice of toppings in a disposable foil tray, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Some tasty topping options include ground beef, black beans, diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and olives. Don’t forget the spicy salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping!

    1. Chili

    A hearty bowl of chili is the perfect comfort food for a cold tailgate, and it’s easy to make in large quantities.

    Simply simmer ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and your choice of spices in a slow cooker or large pot, and serve with a side of shredded cheese and diced onions. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or black beans in place of ground beef.

    1. BBQ Ribs

    BBQ ribs are a true crowd-pleaser at any tailgate, but they do require a bit more time and effort to prepare.

    To make the best ribs, start by seasoning them with your favorite dry rub and letting them marinate in the refrigerator overnight. Then, grill or smoke the ribs until they’re tender and falling off the bone.

    Serve with a side of BBQ sauce for dipping, and don’t forget the wet wipes for messy fingers!

    1. Sliders

    Sliders are a great finger food option for a tailgate because they’re easy to eat and can be made with a variety of fillings. For a classic option, try mini burgers with all the fixings – lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and your choice of condiments.

    Or, mix things up with pulled pork sliders, spicy BBQ chicken sliders, or veggie sliders with grilled portobello mushrooms.

    1. Chips and Dip

    Chips and dip are a staple at any tailgate, and there are countless options to choose from.

    For a classic option, try a bowl of salsa or guacamole with a side of tortilla chips. Or, mix things up with a creamy spinach and artichoke dip, jalapeño poppers, or a seven-layer dip with beans, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and your choice of toppings.

    Don’t forget to bring a few different types of chips to accommodate different dietary preferences – corn chips, pita chips, potato chips, and vegetable chips are all great options.

    1. Grilled Veggies

    While meat and cheese may be the stars of many tailgate parties, it’s important to have some healthy options available as well.

    Grilled vegetables taste great and are an easy option that can be made in advance and transported to the tailgate.

    Simply slice your choice of vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms) and toss them in a marinade before grilling.

    For a flavor boost, try adding some herbs or spices to the marinade.

    1. Deviled Eggs

    Deviled eggs are a classic tailgate food that are easy to transport and can be made in advance.

    Simply hard-boil a batch of eggs, slice them in half, and scoop out the yolks. Then, mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and your choice of spices to create a creamy filling.

    Pipe the filling back into the egg whites, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, diced chives, or even bacon.

    1. Buffalo Chicken Dip

    Buffalo chicken dip is a game changer at any tailgate, and it’s easy to make in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.

    Simply mix together cooked and shredded chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, and blue cheese dressing, and heat until the mixture is hot and bubbly.

    Serve with a side of celery sticks and tortilla chips for dipping.

    1. Pulled Pork Sandwiches

    Pulled pork sandwiches are a fun and hearty option for some extra points at your next tailgate, and they’re easy to make in advance.

    Simply season a pork shoulder with your choice of spices, and slow cook it in a slow cooker or oven until it’s tender and falling apart. Then, shred the pork and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce.

    Serve the pulled pork on buns with a side of coleslaw for a classic flavor combination.

    1. Quesadillas

    Quesadillas are a quick and easy option for a tailgate, and they can be customized to suit any preference.

    Simply layer cheese and your choice of fillings (such as grilled chicken, steak, or vegetables) between two tortillas, and grill or bake until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.

    Serve with a side of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.

    1. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

    Grilled cheese sandwiches may seem like a simple option, but they’re always a hit at a tailgate.

    For an extra tasty flavor twist, try using a variety of cheeses and adding some sliced tomatoes or avocado to the sandwich.

    Grilled cheese sandwiches can be made in advance and reheated on the grill or in a pan, making them a convenient option for a busy tailgate.

    1. Pigs in a Blanket

    Pigs in a blanket are a classic snack that are always a hit with kids and adults alike.

    Simply wrap bite-sized pieces of sausage or hot dogs in puff pastry or crescent roll dough, and bake until the pastry is golden brown.

    Serve with a side of mustard or ketchup for dipping.

    1. Seven-Layer Dip

    Seven-layer dip is a classic tailgate snack that’s easy to make and customize to suit your flavor preferences.

    Simply layer beans, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and your choice of toppings (such as diced tomatoes, onions, olives, and jalapenos) in a large serving dish.

    Serve with a side of tortilla chips for dipping, and don’t forget to have some vegetarian options available for those who don’t eat meat.

    1. Antipasto Skewers

    Antipasto skewers taste great and are an easy appetizer for a tailgate, and they can be customized to suit your preferences.

    Simply skewer your choice of cured meats, cheeses, olives, cherry tomatoes, and other antipasto favorites, and serve with a side of crackers or baguette slices.

    1. Grilled Corn on the Cob

    Grilled corn on the cob is a delicious and easy option for a tailgate, and it’s a great way to add some healthy options to the spread.

    Simply soak the corn in water for a few hours before grilling, and brush with melted butter or your favorite seasoning before cooking. Serve with a side of salt and pepper for seasoning.

    1. Deviled Ham Spread

    Deviled ham spread is a delicious and easy option for a tailgate, and it’s a great way to use up any leftover ham.

    Simply mash together diced ham, mayonnaise, mustard, and your choice of spices to create a creamy spread. Serve with a side of crackers or baguette slices.

    1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Grilled shrimp skewers are a delicious and easy appetizer for a tailgate, and they’re a great way to add some protein to the spread.

    Simply skewer your choice of shrimp and season with your favorite spices before grilling. Serve with a side of cocktail sauce or a lemon wedge for squeezing.

    1. Veggie Platter

    Veggie platters are a healthy and refreshing option for a tailgate party, and they’re easy to transport and customize to suit your preferences.

    Simply arrange a variety of vegetables (such as carrots, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers) on a platter, and serve with a side of your favorite dip (such as ranch dressing or hummus).

    1. Cheese and Cracker Platter

    Cheese and cracker platters are a classic tailgate party food that are easy to transport and customize to suit your preferences.

    Simply arrange a variety of cheeses (such as cheddar, brie, and gouda) on a platter, and serve with a side of crackers and some sliced fruit (such as apples and grapes).

    Don’t forget to have some vegetarian options available for those who don’t eat meat.

    1. Chips and Queso

    Chips and queso are a delicious and easy appetizer for a tailgate party, and they’re sure to be a hit with cheese lovers.

    Simply mix together shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, onions, and your choice of spices to create a creamy queso dip, and serve with a side of tortilla chips for dipping.

    Try adding some diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the queso for a spicier option.

    1. Grilled Pizza

    Grilled pizza is a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and it’s a great way to add some variety to the spread.

    Simply roll out some pizza dough and top it with your choice of sauce, cheese, and toppings.

    Then, grill the pizza until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. For a fun twist, try using a variety of different sauces and toppings to create a build-your-own pizza station.

    1. Spaghetti Salad

    Spaghetti salad is a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and it’s a great way to use up any leftover pasta.

    Simply mix together cooked and cooled spaghetti noodles, diced vegetables (such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions), and a flavorful dressing (such as Italian or ranch). Serve chilled or at room temperature.

    1. Grilled Shrimp and Pineapple Skewers

    Grilled shrimp and pineapple skewers are a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and they’re a great way to add some tropical flavor to the spread.

    Simply skewer your choice of shrimp and pineapple chunks, and grill until the shrimp is pink and the pineapple is caramelized. Serve with a side of teriyaki sauce or a citrus marinade for dipping.

    1. Grilled Sausage and Sweet Peppers

    Grilled sausage and peppers are a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and they’re a great way to add some protein to the spread.

    Simply slice your choice of sausage and sweet bell peppers, and grill until the sausage is cooked through and the peppers are charred. Serve on buns with a side of mustard or ketchup for dipping.

    1. Grilled Steak Skewers

    Grilled steak skewers are a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and they’re a great way to add some protein to the spread.

    Simply skewer your choice of steak and season with your favorite spices before grilling. Serve with a side of chimichurri or a garlic butter sauce for dipping.

    1. Grilled Chicken Skewers

    Grilled chicken skewers are a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and they’re a great way to add some protein to the spread.

    Simply skewer your choice of chicken and season with your favorite spices before grilling. Serve with a side of BBQ sauce or a citrus marinade for dipping.

    1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers

    Grilled vegetable skewers are a delicious and easy appetizer for a tailgate party, and they’re a great way to add some healthy options to the spread.

    Simply skewer your choice of vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms) and grill until they’re tender and charred. Serve with a side of hummus or a garlic butter sauce for dipping.

    1. Grilled Shrimp and Vegetable Skewers

    Grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers are a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and they’re a great way to add some protein and healthy options to the spread.

    Simply skewer your choice of shrimp and vegetables, and grill until the shrimp is pink and the vegetables are tender and charred. Serve with a side of cocktail sauce or a citrus marinade for dipping.

    1. Grilled Corn Salad

    Grilled corn salad is a delicious and easy option for a tailgate party, and it’s a great way to use up any leftover corn on the cob.

    Simply grill your choice of corn until it’s tender and charred, and then slice the kernels off the cob. Toss the grilled corn with diced tomatoes, onions, and a flavorful dressing (such as ranch or Italian), and serve chilled or at room temperature.

    1. Grilled Pizza Skewers

    Grilled pizza skewers are a fun and easy option for a tailgate party, and they’re a great way to add some variety to the spread.

    Simply skewer your choice of pizza toppings (such as diced vegetables, meats, and cheese), and grill until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is melted. Serve with a side of pizza sauce for dipping.

    1. Pimento Cheese

    Pimento cheese is a Southern classic that’s perfect for a tailgate party. It’s a creamy spread made with shredded cheese, diced pimentos, and mayonnaise, and it’s delicious on sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip for veggies.

    To make pimento cheese, simply mix together shredded cheddar cheese, diced pimentos, mayonnaise, and your choice of spices (such as garlic powder and paprika) in a bowl. Serve the pimento cheese with a side of crackers or sliced baguette, and don’t forget to have some vegetarian options available for those who don’t eat meat.

    Conclusion - get out there and try some new recipes at your next tailgate!

    In conclusion, tailgate parties are a beloved tradition for many sports fans, and the food is an integral part of the experience. Whether you’re hosting your own tailgate party or attending someone else’s, these delicious and crowd-pleasing foods are sure to be a hit. From classic options like burgers and hot dogs, to more creative options like grilled pizza and antipasto skewers, there’s something for everyone at a tailgate party. So don’t forget to include some of these tasty treats in your spread, and cheers to a great game!

     

    Great food is just the start, for more info on how to make the most of your tailgating experience check out our post here. 

    Topics:   Tailgating, Tailgate Food, Tailgate Recipes

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