Now that the Super Bowl teams are locked and loaded, and the rivalry between the brother coaches of the 49’ers and the Ravens has piqued the curiosity of even the more mild football fans, it’s time to think about parties and the food. This weekend off gives time to round up favorite tried-and-true dishes as well as track down some new things to try.
The key to successful football party food is keeping it simple, loaded with flavor, serve-yourself and make beforehand. Though I would not say the typical food featured on Boulder Locavore is ‘football food’ there are definitely plenty of dishes that do fill the bill. Dip-able, spreadable fare. Relaxed, inviting cuisine suggesting looser waistbands and slouching on comfy arm chairs. Easy to prepare and make-ahead dishes that allow lavishing friends and family with deliciousness but also your attention, rather than slaving in the kitchen when everyone gathers. And of course a twist on the expected, perhaps offering a nod to seasonality, quality ingredients and all gluten free.
Relax and let us do the thinking for you! I’m sure you’ll find something here that you’ll love!
First Down: Scoopable, Spreadable, Dip-able Appetizers
Hot Artichoke Dip with Garlic Toast Rounds
Field Goal: Savory Sides
Touch Down: Main Dishes
Macaroni and Cheese with Homemade Chicken Apple Sausage and Bacon
Crock Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Sweet Victory: A Spicy Cocktail and Desserts
Drunken Sailor Rum Cupcakes with Pineapple Frosting
Buffalo Chicken Everything! I’m a bit obsessed with Buffalo Chicken Wings and that flavor combination in general. I felt I hit the motherlode when exploring the blog Closet Cooking to find it the home of all things ‘Buffalo Chicken’. From the more mainstream dips and wings to innovative soups and even sushi, the recipes dazzle with gorgeous pics, tasty ingredients and crazy-good ideas.
Not wanting to seem like a complete football food stalker by linking to every one of his recipes I loved, I held back and limited myself to the three below. I will note in addition to the Buffalo Chicken extravaganza this site is oozing with the football food we love; gooey, decadent grilled cheese sandwich combinations, dips you are tempted to strap on like a feedbag and not share. He has pulled together a football food round up too. Simply search ‘buffalo chicken’ on Closet Cooking or poke around in general. Prepare to weep with joy at the findings.
(Note: for gluten free eaters, Closet Cooking is not a dedicated gluten-free blog so be sure to scrutinize the recipes for any needed gluten free substitutions).
Some additional favorites from my Gluten Free blogging Sisterhood:
Chili Goat Cheese Dip (Musings of a Housewife)
Sweet and Spicy Beef Nachos {slow cooker recipe} (A Spicy Perspective)
White Pizza Dip (La Phemme Phoodie)
Sriracha Chicken Skewers (This Mama Cooks on a Diet)
Creamy Chipotle Butternut Dip (Tasty Eats at Home)
In the case this isn’t enough I also have two Pinterest boards that have more luscious ideas: Mouth Watering and a group board Game Day Recipes. Check them out too!
Carolyn says
January 16, 2014 at 7:15 amWith a line-up like this, you’ve blown the notion that gluten-free cooking is boring and tasteless right out of the water!
Toni Dash says
January 16, 2014 at 9:17 amThank you Carolyn; that is probably the most flattering comment I could hope to receive. There is a misnomer that GF food is void of flavor which of course is completely untrue. It’s a much more vibrant way to eat than many realize!
Happy Valley Chow says
January 25, 2013 at 11:08 amI love the look of ALL of these recipes! Sounds like the perfect game time feast. Thanks for sharing!
The Mom Chef ~ Taking on Magazines One Recipe at a Time says
January 25, 2013 at 11:30 amI want everything. I still have my eye on that blue cheese cake though. It looks amazing. Go ‘9ers!
Toni Dash says
January 26, 2013 at 10:06 pmA little someone in my house saw this post and inquired, with high hopes I surmise, if I would be making all these dished for the Super Bowl. We happened to be in San Francisco last weekend when the 49’ers won the playoff and there was lots of screaming and honking in the streets. A pretty exciting game and a pretty excited city!
Sprigs of Rosemary says
January 25, 2013 at 9:52 amA dazzling line up! I don’t know where to start! I only have to take one thing to the SUper Bowl party. I’m hard pressed to choose!
Toni Dash says
January 26, 2013 at 10:08 pmI’m not great at narrowing down options when I like several things so I’m no help Rosemary I’m afraid! I will say whatever you choose you will be better than ok!