Are you ready for some football? I am! The big game is this Sunday. While technically it’s about the two teams playing, in my book it’s all about the food.
Dips are always popular on game day parties and you’ll star of the day if you bring Sherry Monfils’ (Worcester, MA) Bacon Cheeseburger Queso Dip. Seriously, bacon, ground beef, and cheese… how could this not be great?!
“Oh my, do men seem to love this dip,” jokes Sherry. “It’s meaty and cheesy. Serve with slices of bread and thick tortilla chips.” You’ll definitely need a heartier chip for this recipe… it’s packed with ground beef, diced tomatoes, and bacon (mmm, bacon). This is a great recipe to switch-up ordinary queso. Plus, it’s super easy to make. Score!
The Crock Pot does all the work for Heather Trice’s (Indianapolis, IN) Honey Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches. “This recipe is easy to double or even triple if making to serve a larger crowd,” shares Heather. Her easy shredded chicken recipe is great for the big game.
What I love is the addition of Italian dressing. It gives a little tang to the BBQ sauce. Serve on potato rolls (maybe add a little slaw) and you’ll have a hearty sandwich that’ll earn extra points with friends.
One bite of Megan Todd’s (Warren, OH) “Giuseppe” Pepperoni Rolls and you’ll never take a shortcut again when making pepperoni rolls. Megan’s recipe is a bit labor intensive, but the majority of time is making her homemade Italian bread (which would be amazing on its own!) and allowing it to proof.
But, as Megan explained, “these freeze very well, so they are great for a make ahead meal.” The bread is crunchy on the outside with a light and airy inside. Stuffed with pepperoni, provolone and mozzarella cheese, served hot from the oven these are magnificent. Cut into smaller strips and serve as an appetizer or larger pieces for a more substantial snack. Definitely a winning recipe.
A football party is not complete without something Buffalo. Instead of Buffalo chicken sliders or Buffalo wings, try Julie Penman’s (Salt Lake City, UT) Buffalo Style Chicken and Rice Soup. If it’s a cold day, this hearty soup will warm you right up! To me, this has more of a chili consistency than a soup. Rice, along with a combination of chili, kidney and black beans, are fab additions to the recipe.
“This healthy and hearty soup combines the same great flavors of Frank’s hot wings, but less guilty and less messy,” shares Julie. “It’s delicious topped with sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese, tortilla chips or crumbled blue cheese.” Set up a topping bar at the party and let the guests top their bowls based on their taste. A tasty way to kick-up your game day.
Michele Kusma’s (Columbus, OH) Chocolate Fluffernutter Football Dip is fun and will be a favorite with kids – big and small! Michele was inspired by the classic fluffernutter sandwich. “Peanut butter and marshmallow creme are a delicious combination,” thought Michele. “Adding chocolate created a decadent dessert dip!”
She shaped the dip into a football since the color resembled one and used mini-marshmallows for the lines on the ball. Seriously adorable. Dip apples, pretzels, strawberries, and, my favorite, graham crackers.
Or, serve Belinda Castillo’s (San Antonio, TX) Football Oatmeal Ice Cream Sandwiches for a fun game day treat. “Fun and yummy,” says Belinda and I’d have to agree. Besides being tasty, they’re adorable. Not only will kids love these chewy, creamy oatmeal ice cream cookies, but adults will too. I’m sure you will receive lots of high fives and fist bumps.
If you’re heading to a party this Sunday, try one of these winning recipes. They have MVP written all over them. Do you have a favorite game day recipe? Let us know… Happy Pinching!