Whether you're big on planning ahead, or are a last-minute culinary whiz, we're arming you with six brand new recipes, plus tips and tricks for entertaining with ease. Our Gourmet Game Day menu includes everything from a finger-friendly Asian snack mix, to red velvet whoopie pies. And while the big game is synonymous with gluttonous indulgence, we've also included recipes for fresh salads geared toward those of us looking for lighter fare on a day defined by beer, Buffalo wings and bratwurst.
Even if you aren't lucky enough to score tickets to the game, you can still kick back from the comfort of your kitchen (or couch) and wave goodbye to a stadium's worth of nacho "cheese" sauce as you whip up the real deal, our Queso Fundido, a hot bean, cheese and chorizo dip. And that's just the start...
The main event features Stuffed Sliders Your Way. We're giving you the ultimate template for mixing and matching your favorite meats, cheeses, toppings and breads. There are classic combos like lamb with yogurt sauce in a mini-pita, and creative twists like Texas-inspired pork patties brushed with barbecue sauce, topped with coleslaw and served on a lightly toasted brioche bun. The flavors (and combinations) are almost endless.
It'll be a day of stress-free feasting thanks to our Play-by-Play guide that provides timed steps and instructions for putting together the whole menu without missing a minute of the game.
• Throw the Flag: Don't stop at decorating with your team's colors; add yellow and red napkins to mimic the referee's flag and the coach's challenge flag. This simple decorative touch will add an element of coffee table competition to your spread.
• The Perfect Spot: Keep things simple by positioning food near the television, with sweets kept separate from savory dishes. You don't want guests to be forced to choose between watching the game and eating. It's a Super Bowl party, not a seven-course dinner.
• Pre-game Warm-Up: Include a mix of both hot and room temperature foods, the latter of which can be prepared and set out ahead of time. Our menu includes a Chopped Salad, Asian-inspired Snack Mix and Orzo Salad that can be ready in bowls before guests arrive, giving you ample time to fire up the grill (or grill pan) for DIY sliders.
• Get Into the Spirit: Opt for more unique beer options to pair with your snacks, and don't forget the citrus! Add a splash of fresh lime to Corona, an orange wedge to Blue Moon or a lemon twist to Ayinger.
• Call for Substitutions: It's not all about the booze. Don't forget to include kid-friendly mocktails like freshly squeezed lemonade or fruit-filled iced tea for those who are looking for beverages that don't have to be shaken or stirred.
• Post-game Wrap-Up: The last thing you'll likely want to think about after the game is more food. But bidding goodbye to your guests with a parting gift of homemade granola makes for a stress-free Monday morning with breakfast already in the bag.