The weather may be getting colder, but tailgating (also known as football) season is far from over. Everyone knows the best part of game day is the tailgates, and while we hope for UVA’s football record to improve (dare to dream y’all), these recipes will keep you happy and satisfied, even if the final score does not.
1. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Serve this spinach and artichoke dip with crackers or pita chips for easy scooping. Don’t feel guilty if you singlehandedly finish it off, because spinach is healthy right?
2. Chunky Guacamole
Chips and guac are a tailgating classic, and this spicy, gloriously chunky recipe will put Chipotle‘s to shame. If good ole classic guacamole is too basic for you, check out these 14 ways to upgrade your guac.
#SpoonTip: Add red pepper flakes if you want to add even more zest.
3. Black Bean and Corn Chili
This black bean and corn chili will warm you up on a chilly (pun intended) game day. It’s even meatless, so your vegetarian friends can enjoy it as well.
4. Mac and Cheese
Every tailgate needs a healthy dose of cheese, and this mac and cheese recipe will definitely do the trick. Make sure to use an insulated food carrier to keep it warm throughout the tailgate.
5. Buffalo Chicken Dip
No tailgate is complete without some buffalo chicken dip, and this easy-to-make recipe will be sure to impress. Dip in with some tortilla chips, and enjoy.
#SpoonTip: If you’re feeling ambitious, make your own tortilla chips with this easy microwave recipe.
6. Ham and Cheese Roll Ups
Put a twist on the classic ham and cheese sandwich with these rollups. Finger foods are the key to a good tailgate, and these bite-sized snacks will be gone in no time.
7. Loaded Veggie Nachos
These loaded nachos only take 15 minutes to make, and the recipe even tells you how to make homemade chips. Add some hot sauce on top if you want to spice things up.
8. Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Bombs
Bacon and cheese combine forces in these mozzarella bombs to make a tailgate treat that no one will be able to resist.
9. Mini Pizza Pies
These bite-sized pizza pies will help you get your pizza fix without dealing with the hassle of serving a whole pizza.
10. Chocolate-Strawberry Footballs
If you’ve managed to save any room for dessert, these chocolate-covered strawberries will satisfy your sweet tooth, and the football designs will keep you in the game day mindset.
These recipes will be sure to get you pumped for game day, and who knows, maybe after stuffing your face at the tailgate, you’ll even make it to the actual game.