Huddle up for flavor: 57 game day Appetizers and drinks

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Huddle up for flavor and get ready to elevate your game-day experience with our collection of mouthwatering appetizers and refreshing drinks. From savory bites that’ll keep you cheering to thirst-quenching sips that’ll keep the energy high, these recipes are the perfect playbook for your next sports gathering.

Pulling apart a garlic cheese ball filled with stringy mozzarella cheese.
Garlic Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Deviled Eggs with Bacon

Two deviled eggs on a wooden table.
Deviled Eggs with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Savor the delectable flavors of Bacon-Infused Deviled Eggs, a must-have appetizer for your game day gatherings. Infused with the smoky essence of bacon and the zesty kick of pickles, these eggs deliver a symphony of tastes that will undoubtedly elevate your appetizer spread, creating an extraordinary layer of indulgence for the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs with Bacon

Beef Kabobs

Beef kabobs on red plate.
Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

If you’re seeking to amp up your game day grilling, explore the world of beef kabobs, where every bite delivers a satisfying blend of savory meats, grilled vegetables, and a explosion of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Beef Kabobs

Hero Sandwich

Side view of a hero sandwich with meats, cheese, and veggies.
Hero Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Enhance your game day feast with a hero sandwich – a culinary champion that harmonizes a medley of flavors, textures, and the ideal ingredient balance that will leave you yearning for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Hero Sandwich

Mint Julep

Mint Julep in clear glass with mint sprigs as garnish.
Mint Julep. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Create an unforgettable game day experience by embracing the timeless tradition of a Classic Mint Julep, transformed into a captivating cocktail. With just three simple ingredients, this recipe promises an easy yet elegant libation to enhance your celebration.
Get the Recipe: Mint Julep

Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps

Overhead view of cream cheese pickle wraps on white plate.
Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Enhance your game day appetizer selection with Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps, a delightful and effortless option that’s sure to make an impact. This irresistible treat is ready to whet appetites and secure its place as an essential addition to your gathering’s menu, ensuring every guest enjoys its delicious charm!
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps

Whiskey Sour

A drink with an orange slice and cherry on top.
Whiskey Sour. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Prepare to enhance your game day festivities with this fruity and refreshing concoction, perfect for crafting an irresistible whiskey sour that will delight your guests. With this simple guide, you’ll be able to mix up a delicious libation to amp up your celebration!
Get the Recipe: Whiskey Sour

Garlic Cheese Balls

Pulling apart a garlic cheese ball filled with stringy mozzarella cheese.
Garlic Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amp up your game day spread with these Garlic Cheese Balls! Loaded with rich cheesy goodness and a hint of garlic, they’re melt-in-your-mouth incredible. Perfect for dipping or popping straight into your mouth, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Cheese Balls

Mexican Tostones

Overhead view of tostones with salt.
Mexican Tostones. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Craving a crunchy side for your football celebration? Mexican tostones are your answer. These golden and crispy plantain slices add a delightful texture and flavor to your feast.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Tostones

Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites

Buffalo chicken broccoli cheddar bites with avocado dipping sauce.
Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If there could be a perfect football food, these buffalo chicken cheddar bites would be it. Although, no need to like football to enjoy them, I’ll gladly pop a few back without the TV on!
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites

Quesabirria Tacos

Overhead shot of quesabirria tacos with lime wedges.
Quesabirria Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Quesabirria Tacos—a crispy-fried, sauce-drenched tortilla filled with perfectly slow-cooked beef and melted cheese—are a perfect game-day snack. They’re cheesy, they’re meaty, and they’re delicious.
Get the Recipe: Quesabirria Tacos

Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs

Pulled pork deviled eggs on a blue plate.
Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs are such a great twist on classic deviled eggs! They will make a great appetizer or game day food!
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs

Game Day MVP: Tater Tot Touchdowns

Extra Crispy Keto Tater Tots Croquettes inside white bowl.
Game Day MVP: Tater Tot Touchdowns. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Elevate your game with our Irresistible Tater Tots Croquettes—a surefire MVP of your football spread. These crispy bites are a touchdown of flavor and low carb goodness, keeping you fueled for every play and ensuring your taste buds are the ultimate winners.
Get the Recipe: Game Day MVP: Tater Tot Touchdowns

Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Bacon pickle boats stuffed with cream cheese on a plate next to a bowl of dip.
Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese (aka pickle poppers) are a perfect game day appetizer that can be made in under 1 hour. If you love jalapeño poppers, this pickle-based variation is sure to be a winner!
Get the Recipe: Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Hot honey lemon pepper wings on a dark blue plate surrounded by lemon pepper, lemons, a white linen, and lemonade.
Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These hot honey lemon pepper wings are a crispy, sweet, savory, and tangy finger food perfect for football parties!
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Blueberry Vodka Lemonade

A glass of blueberry vodka lemonade with lemons and blueberries.
Blueberry Vodka Lemonade. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

For a refreshing and tangy cocktail at your football festivities, make this blueberry vodka lemonade recipe. The delicious concoction combines the zesty flavors of fresh lemons with the sweetness of blueberries.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Vodka Lemonade

Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll-Ups

Jalapeno popper pinwheels on a silver trays.
Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll-Ups. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

These Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll-Ups are a favorite bite-size tortilla pinwheel filled with everything we love in a classic popper; cream cheese, fresh jalapenos, and crispy bacon. Set out a platter for game day bites.
Get the Recipe: Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll-Ups

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bite size chestnuts wrapped in bacon on a toothpick.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

It’s a match made in finger food heaven: crispy bacon wrapping a crunchy water chestnut. This dynamic duo brings together smoky, savory flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it the perfect munch for football parties or just because.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

bacon wrapped dates stuffed with chorizo and pierced together with green toothpick flags.
Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates. Photo credit: Feast + West.

A batch of Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates will disappear quickly at any party. They’re an easy appetizer you can make for a tailgating crowd and full of sweet and salty flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip

A picture of easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip with vegetable sticks.
Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

This dip is like the reliable offensive lineman of your snack table—strong, dependable, and gets the job done every play. Just mix three ingredients, and you’ve got a dip that pairs with chips or veggies and won’t let you down on game day. It’s a first-round pick for sure!
Get the Recipe: Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip

Cheese Curds

Gluten-free keto cheese curds.
Cheese Curds. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Think of these cheese curds as the defensive tackles of your snack game. They’re big, bold, and you can’t ignore them. With a crispy shell and gooey inside, these bites will have your guests doing touchdown dances in the living room.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Curds

Fresh Pico De Gallo

Overhead of pico de gallo in white bowl with veggies around.
Fresh Pico De Gallo. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Take your game day party to new heights with fresh pico de gallo. This zesty and versatile condiment adds a burst of flavor, making it the perfect dipping sauce..
Get the Recipe: Fresh Pico De Gallo

Salt and Vinegar Popcorn Cauliflower

Salt and vinegar popcorn cauliflower in a newspaper covered bowl.
Salt and Vinegar Popcorn Cauliflower. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

If you love popcorn shrimp, you’ll love this salt and vinegar popcorn cauliflower. Just as addictive but a lot healthier. It’s a perfect treat to balance out your game day spread.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Vinegar Popcorn Cauliflower

Air Fryer Empanadas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Empanadas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas are so easy to make if you use store-bought pie crusts. These Mexican meat-filled handpies are perfect for game day.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Empanadas

Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs

Green and white football plate with deviled eggs.
Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Buffalo Chicken Deviled eggs are such a crowd pleaser, perfect for game day!
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs

Meatball Blitz: Pumpkin Spice Victory

Pumpkin meatballs with baked pumpkin pieces.
Meatball Blitz: Pumpkin Spice Victory. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Score big with our Pumpkin Spice Meatballs—an unexpected twist that brings victory to your game day feast. Bursting with fall flavors and savory goodness, these meatballs offer a unique spin on classic finger food, making every bite a celebration of football season.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Blitz: Pumpkin Spice Victory

Cucumber Tomato Bites

A hand holding a cucumber tomato bite.
Cucumber Tomato Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Cucumber Tomato Bites are a quick, easy, and delicious game day appetizer recipe that you can whip together in less than 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Soy Garlic Wings

Soy garlic wings on a blue plate surrounded by a white linen, a glass of bear, soy ginger sauce, and cloves of garlic.
Soy Garlic Wings. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These soy garlic chicken wings are crispy, juicy, sweet, and savory. With one simple trick, you’ll have consistently crispy wings every time without needing to deep fry them! Everyone loves chowing down on these delicious wings at football parties!
Get the Recipe: Soy Garlic Wings

Strawberry Lemonade

Glasses of strawberry lemonade with strawberries and lemons.
Strawberry Lemonade. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Learn to make a delicious homemade strawberry lemonade with only a few easy ingredients. With this recipe, you’ll make the perfect game day beverage in no time.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lemonade

Air Fryer Corn Ribs

Corn ribs with fresh herbs being dipped into a creamy sauce.
Air Fryer Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Ever tried ribs that are vegetarian-friendly? Air Fryer Corn Ribs are a delightful twist on classic ribs. With a smoky char, seasoned to perfection, these corn “ribs” are a crunchy, savory treat that’s sure to surprise and delight the game day crowd.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn Ribs

Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese skewers on a silver tray.
Caprese Salad Skewers. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Serving caprese salad on skewers is a great way to serve this traditional summer dish for a classy tailgate. This combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and balsamic vinegar works as either an appetizer or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad Skewers

Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip Recipe

A picture of the best chip dip with potato chips on a tray.
Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Think of this dip as the quarterback of your football spread. It brings all the other snacks together, setting them up for the big win. Recreate the iconic Lawson’s Chip Dip right at home and watch your guests huddle around it.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip Recipe

Cheesy Pickle Chips

Baked pickle cheese chips with bowl of ketchup on white plate.
Cheesy Pickle Chips. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

These are the trick play your snack table needs. When you think you’ve seen it all, here come cheesy pickle chips to surprise and delight. A little tangy, a little cheesy, and completely unexpected. A buzzer-beater in snack form.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Pickle Chips

Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread

Overhead view of sliced cornbread.
Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Enjoy the taste of Mexico with this spicy cheddar jalapeño cornbread recipe. Made with cornmeal, it’s moist, flavorful, and makes a great football-watching snack.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread

Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls

Cranberry sausage cheddar balls with cranberry dipping sauce.
Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These cranberry cheddar sausage bites are perfect as a holiday appetizer or even a game day snack. Serve them with some cranberry sauce for dipping!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls

BBQ Chicken Queso

Bowl of queso surrounded by chips.
BBQ Chicken Queso. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Serve this hearty bbq chicken queso at your football watching party!
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Queso

Sushi Showdown: Creative Endzone Eats

Keto Friendly Sushi Rolls served on a black board.
Sushi Showdown: Creative Endzone Eats. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Enter the Sushi Showdown with our Creative Low Carb Sushi—a game-changing play in your football finger food lineup. These innovative bites combine fresh ingredients with low carb flair, delivering a burst of flavors that’ll have your fellow fans cheering for more.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Showdown: Creative Endzone Eats

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Garnished shrimp cucumber bites on a plate.
Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Shrimp Cucumber Bites are a perfect football party appetizer that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and serve! Featuring ingredients like shrimp, cajun seasoning, homemade guacamole, and cucumber slices, this recipe is low-carb, dairy-free, and gluten-free.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Deviled Eggs

closeup shot of deviled eggs without mustard topped with snipped chives and paprika on a white plate.
Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These deviled eggs are a finger food no one can pass up during football season. They’re a creamy, delicious appetizer everyone should try! Check out the recipe to find out the secret ingredient that’s added in place of Dijon mustard.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Shirley Temple Drink

Shirley temple drink in tall glass with cherry garnish and straws container.
Shirley Temple Drink. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Achieve perfection with a homemade Shirley Temple drink. Learn the classic recipe and use it to make your own version of the iconic beverage at your football party.
Get the Recipe: Shirley Temple Drink

Air Fryer Crab Rangoon

Crab rangoon in the air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Crab Rangoon. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Who can resist the creamy, crab-filled wonders that are Crab Rangoon? Made in the air fryer, they’re crisp on the outside with a luscious, savory filling. Perfect for game day parties or just indulging yourself, they’re a bite-sized delight.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Crab Rangoon

Shishito Peppers

Shishito peppers that have been blistered covered in sea salt.
Shishito Peppers. Photo credit: Feast + West.

These easy blistered shishito peppers are a great way to enjoy this classic bar snack at home on game day. Dip them in your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shishito Peppers

4-Ingredient Guacamole

Two bowls of guacamole on tray with chips and various ingredients.
4-Ingredient Guacamole. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Imagine this guacamole as your special teams unit. It has one job—being irresistibly good—and it nails it every time. Fresh avocado, a splash of lime, and a secret kick make this a game day hero. First down in flavor town!
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Guacamole

Bacon Cheddar Dip

Bacon cheddar dip with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chive garnish.
Bacon Cheddar Dip. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Here’s the dip that’ll be the star of any football party. It’s a creamy, cheesy base loaded up with bits of crispy bacon. This dip is ideal for chips, but let’s be honest, you’ll want to put it on everything.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheddar Dip

Spicy Seasoned Pretzels

Spicy seasoned pretzels in a black bowl with small bowl of guacamole on the side.
Spicy Seasoned Pretzels. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These spicy seasoned pretzels are an easy homemade snack excellent for dipping in guac, salsa or hummus. Perfect for game day!
Get the Recipe: Spicy Seasoned Pretzels

Fire Roasted Salsa

Bowl of chips and salsa and a football.
Fire Roasted Salsa. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

This delicious, homemade fire roasted salsa is the perfect game day salsa!
Get the Recipe: Fire Roasted Salsa

Spinach Slam: Elegant End Zone Tidbits

Spinach Salmon Rolls on a wooden board.
Spinach Slam: Elegant End Zone Tidbits. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Experience the Spinach Slam with our Elegant Salmon Spinach Bites—a culinary touchdown that brings sophistication to your game day spread. Packed with rich flavors and nutrient-packed goodness, these bites not only satisfy but also elevate your football feast to the next level.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Slam: Elegant End Zone Tidbits

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

A plate of bacon wrapped mini peppers.
Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers are stuffed with cream cheese that’s been mixed together with Everything Bagel seasoning. If you like jalapeño poppers, you’ll love these! Prepped and baked in under 1 hour, this easy game day appetizer features the perfect combination of flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

Garlic Peanuts

Close-up shot of garlic peanuts with chopped rosemary.
Garlic Peanuts. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These Garlic Peanuts are a delicious finger food for football Sundays. The roasted peanuts are toasted in olive oil, salted, and mixed with golden garlic, dried chile de Árbol and a bit of earthy, floral chopped rosemary for a little bit of elegance on your snack table.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Peanuts

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Stack of bacon wrapped onion rings.
Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Try these sweet and savory bacon-wrapped onion rings for a unique game day appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels

Puff pastry pinwheels on a round wooden cutting board.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Level up your snack game with these spicy spirals! They’re the perfect bite-sized fiery treat that’ll have fans reaching for more during every play.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels

Beer Margaritas

A beerita with a salt rim in a glass shaped like a beer can next to limes and a green glass juicer.
Beer Margaritas. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Beer Margaritas are a fun and delicious way to celebrate any big game. Made with Mexican lager and tequila, these are the ultimate game-day sipper.
Get the Recipe: Beer Margaritas

Carne Asada Nachos

Carne asada nachos on a sheet pan.
Carne Asada Nachos. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Perfectly grilled carne asada steak makes the best nachos ever! Loaded with pico de gallo, melted cheese, guacamole, jalapeños, lime crema and fresh cilantro, these nachos will be a new game day favorite!
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada Nachos

Mushroom Magic: Stuffed End Zone Delight

Stuffed Mushrooms on a plate.
Mushroom Magic: Stuffed End Zone Delight. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Witness Mushroom Magic with Stuffed Mushroom Elegance—a culinary touchdown that adds a touch of sophistication to your football spread. Bursting with savory goodness and rich flavors, these elegant bites take your game day snacks to a whole new level, ensuring your end zone is tastefully celebrated.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Magic: Stuffed End Zone Delight

Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

A dish of jalapeño spinach artichoke dip with a spoon scooping out a serving.
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This flavorful Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip is a game day appetizer that features jalapeño peppers, fresh spinach, and creamy artichoke hearts. It’s a deliciously cheesy dip that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Pasta chips in a white bowl.
Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Use your air fryer to make irresistible pasta chips. They are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for snacking during the game.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño Poppers on a platter with a bowl of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Dive into a crispy, spicy, cheesy paradise! Perfectly air-fried, these poppers bring the heat to your football feast and will have everyone doing a touchdown dance.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Michelada

beer bottles, rim salt and hot sauce with a michelada cocktail.
Michelada. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Savory and salty, the Michelada is a delicious cocktail starring Mexican beer. Essentially a Bloody Mary made with lager beer, this drink is perfect for those early morning tailgates.
Get the Recipe: Michelada

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