The mecca of all food holidays is almost upon us – the Super Bowl! Just like Thanksgiving and Christmas, calories don’t count on this day. Snack foods always rule my menu and this year will be no different.
Don’t let the pretzel-making process intimidate you. Jeanne Ballough’s (Reynoldsville, PA) Pennsylvania Dutch Soft Pretzels is an easy to follow recipe.
“These pretzels are great they taste just like the ones I had from a Dutch family in Chambersburg, PA,” reveals Jeanne. “They are easy to make and really good.”
While the shape may not be perfect, Jeanne’s pretzels are fun to make. They are a soft-baked pretzel covered in just the right amount of salt. The pretzels are slightly crisp on the outside while staying soft and chewy on the inside. They’re delicious on their own but I suggest adding some dippers. A little German mustard, honey mustard, nacho cheese or some beer cheese dip would be yummy.
Is it game day if wings aren’t served? Not in my book. Paula Todora’s (Fort Worth, TX) Crispy Baked Chicken Wings are a great option.
“Low carb, easy to make by baking, and the best wings ever,” thinks Paula. I absolutely loved these guilt-free wings.
They’re nice and crispy on the outside, but juicy on the inside. These wings aren’t too spicy, but pack a great punch of flavor. The added spices give the wings a hint of garlic and onion. If you like your wings with a bit of heat, then just add more hot sauce. A must-make.
Who doesn’t love an easy and tasty Crock Pot meal? The aroma in the Test Kitchen was intoxicating as Mary Kay Nugent’s Touchdown Sammies simmered away.
“This recipe is so simple and tasty and lets you enjoy the game instead of being chained to the kitchen,” shares Mary Kay. “Take this recipe and make it your own… you can do sliders or onion buns (my preference) or sourdough bread… it is excellent on rye buns too.”
The robust beer and stock give the beef so much flavor. Once shredded, it’s tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Have fun with the toppings. I opted for a toasted pretzel bun, melted provolone, and BBQ sauce – amazing. This will be great for a crowd when everyone is gathered to watch the big game.
Another tasty goodie is Kendra W. Raymond’s (Hermon, ME) Anytime Tailgate Sandwiches.
“These little gems are irresistible,” says Kendra. “An absolute must for any tailgate party, outdoor or indoor! I often double this recipe for a crowd.”
Serve these on game day and they’re going to go fast. They are the ideal munchable size. The sweetness from the Hawaiian rolls and the ham are the perfect balance to the savory cream cheese, Parmesan, and onion. Be ready for some high fives when these are served.
While appetizers a must on the menu, I always serve a sweet treat. Brownies are always popular and Krystal McDowell’s (Reidsville, NC) Dangerously Fudgy Brownies are so good.
“I could never find a brownie recipe that I liked,” explains Krystal. “In my house, these brownies barely have a chance to cool before they’re gobbled up. They’re a hit at my bakery as well.”
These brownies are moist and not too sweet. Darker chocolate and cocoa are used so the sugar isn’t overpowering in the actual brownie. The icing on top adds a bit of sweetness to balance. Yum!
Whether you’re hosting a party or have been asked to bring something, these Blue Ribbon recipes are delicious for game day. If you want more recipes, check out our Great Tailgate and Blue Ribbon Chicken Wing collections. They’re full of fantastic football food. Happy Pinching!