15 Classic Tailgate Foods To Master Before Football Season Starts
When summer comes to a close and the fall weather slowly creeps in, football season is just around the corner. Whether this is your first time at the tailgate rodeo or you're a seasoned veteran, there are some classic tailgating recipes you need to master before the first kickoff.
Artichoke Spinach Dip
Fall brings cooler weather, meaning this warm dip will be welcomed at your tailgate. It's a classic that works well not only for your tailgate, but for any upcoming get-togethers of the season.
BBQ Wings
Barbecue wings are the perfect choice for those who like their wings with a little more sweet and a little less heat than Buffalo wings provide.
Best Burgers
You can't have a tailgate without a classic burger. Forgo the frozen options and batch these out the night before your tailgate for more flavor (and fewer preservatives).
Black Bean Dip
Black bean dip is easy to make ahead of the tailgate, and it's a little healthier for those watching what they eat. It's also a great dip for any vegans and vegetarians joining your tailgate party.
Boiled Peanuts
Boiled peanuts hail from the South, where college ball is king. Pair the salty snack with a cold beer for maximum tailgate potential.
Bratwurst
What's a tailgate without some brats? While Cheddar brats are an easy buy at the store, making these homemade sausages will earn you major tailgate-chef cred with the other grillmasters at the game.
Buffalo Chicken Wings
Spicy, messy, and delicious — the trifecta of a perfect Buffalo chicken wing. Make a big batch of these guys, because they're everyone's favorite.
Coleslaw
Crock Pot Chili
Crock Pot Chili is a crowd pleaser, and easy to set and let cook while you're enjoying the tailgate with your buddies. Top with chopped onions, Cheddar cheese, or sour cream for an extra kick.
Crock Pot Queso
Guacamole
You can almost guarantee that any bowl of guac you bring to a tailgate will leave empty. The pros at Chipotle know a thing or two about the perfect guac, so why not recreate their recipe? Extra chips, please.
Jalapeno Poppers
Jalapeño poppers are a spicy, creamy snack that's sure to please your tailgate guests. Add a little bacon and you have a recipe you'll be making throughout the entire football season.
Potato Skins
Toss around the old pigskin with one of these potato skins in hand.
Ranch Dip
This ranch dip is the perfect complement to your tailgate wings. It also pairs well with vegetables and potato chips for those who feel like snacking before the game.
Sausage and Peppers
Pump up your brats with this heartier dish of sausage and peppers. The sweet and smoky Italian sausage can stand alone as a dish when paired with crisp and sweet bell peppers, but if you want a little carb action, spoon them into a baguette or bun for a handheld meal.
Click here for the Sausage and Pepper recipe.
— Lauren Durden
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