8 Must-Try Recipes to Make for the Big Game
/Whether you’re watching the big game for the football, Rihanna’s halftime performance or commercials, everyone can agree that no watch party is complete without good food.
In fact, some might argue that food is what makes this particular Sunday so exciting. If you’re hosting, it’s a chance to whip up the beloved game day snacks your crew craves, but also an opportunity to try a new recipe or two.
If you’re looking to fill out your watch party spread, we have game day food ideas that are sure to please a crowd — from comfort food to fancy food and lots of options in between.
What makes a winning spread for the big game
Delicious party dips complete with chips, crackers or fresh vegetables (who doesn’t love a dip?)
A variety of savory and sweet appetizers
Munchies with a crunch (for when the game gets intense)
Easy-to-grab finger food
Dessert (do we need to explain this one?)
Fill out your final lineup with these must-try game day eats.
If your idea of a super bowl is a large bowl of guacamole, we've got you covered. Our recipe for chips and guac takes this classic appetizer all the way to the end zone thanks to extra spice (hello serrano pepper!) and a generous topping of queso fresco. The homemade chips? Now that’s a victory.
Get our recipe for house chips and guac.
You’ll want to huddle around the chip bowl once this easy appetizer is served. A spicy take on spinach artichoke dip, our jalapeño artichoke dip will win over your crowd when it comes out of the oven — hot, bubbly and oh-so cheesy.
Get our recipe for jalapeño artichoke dip.
These cheese curds are the ultimate snack for those moments when the big game gets intense. You won’t be able to stop munching on these delicious morsels of cheesy goodness.
Get our recipe for fried cheddar cheese curds.
This irresistible blend of homemade mixed nuts is a must-have for your big game watch party. A little spicy thanks to the buffalo sauce and a little tangy courtesy of the ranch dressing mix, a mixed nut blend doesn’t get any better than this.
Get our recipe for buffalo ranch party nuts.
Easy Baked Chicken Wontons With Jalapeño Cream Cheese Filling
Whether you’re a fan of the NFL or just came for the food, these chicken wontons are a win-win. Baked to crispy perfection and filled with a savory jalapeño cream cheese filling, this is an easy appetizer that will disappear fast.
Get our recipe for easy baked chicken wontons with jalapeño cream cheese filling.
These hot ham sliders are a fan favorite thanks to the layers of meat and melty cheese you can’t help but love. They’re a cook’s favorite thanks to trusty, store-bought Hawaiian rolls slathered in butter and the ease of how they come together and are served.
Get our recipe for slow cooker hot ham sliders.
There’s something comforting about baked dishes with a cream cheese filling, and these baked chicken wontons are no exception. Cheesy, melty but also crunchy, and with a nice touch of spice, look no further to complete your appetizer lineup.
Get our recipe for sweet and spicy whipped feta crostini with hot honey.
Monster Cookie Bars
Everyone knows you need something sweet to balance the savory sliders, chips and guac and other favorites on your watch party spread. These monster cookie bars hit the spot. Easy to make and easy to serve, these dessert bars are sure to be a win.
Get our recipe for monster cookie bars.
This Dairy Farmer Runs His Farm By Three Rules Learned From Football
Born into a California dairy farm family, AJ De Jager knew at a young age he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, father and uncles, who all have made the dairy business their lives’ work. Inspired by his grandfather, Ed, to be a forward-thinking, innovative farm-owner, AJ graduated from college, married, started a family and replanted his roots in Colorado, where he established his own farm, Hunter Ridge Dairy.
Settled between the Rocky Mountains and the grassland frontier of northeastern Colorado, Hunter Ridge Dairy cares for its 4,000 Holstein cows in a freestall barn, guided by three farm rules (inspired by AJ’s college football coach): Be on time, do your best and treat people and animals how you want to be treated.
Read the rest of AJ's story to see why he feels blessed to run a dairy farm.