When I think through the list of things I actually like to do, watching football falls somewhere near the very bottom. The only time my interest piques a little bit is the big game on Sunday. It has nothing to do with the game. Only a tiny bit to do with the half-time show. A bit more to do with the commercials. And EVERYTHING to do with the food.
Between the 2018 and 2019 February showdowns, we got a shiny new air fryer. {Guys, I’m here to tell you that if you don’t have an air fryer yet, put a bookmark in this post and go pick one up.}
In preparation for the Big Game this weekend, I pulled together my favorite recipes from my favorite categories of deliciousness.
Whether you’re dipping a cracker, a chip or a cut of crudité, no party is complete without those decorative bowls of creamy goodness.
Skyline Chili Dip: There’s a polarizing “noodles in my chili??” debate, spun off from the Cincinnati chili dish. Spoiler alert: I don’t dig the noodles, but this cream cheese dip made with a can of Skyline chili is a must at our game gatherings.
Texas Caviar: Contrary to its name, no fish eggs were harmed in the making of this dip.
Spinach Artichoke Dip: Commonly referred to as “spin dip” among the server crowd. I love this version because it’s hot, but there are also great options for cold “spin dips,” too.
Any good party has a variety of appetizers, and if you are serving adult beverages at your shindig, you probably want something with some substance for your guests to eat.
Hot Wings: Hopefully by now you’ve returned from your trip to buy a new air fryer so you, too, can indulge in these amazing air fried wings. We are HUGE wing fans, and the ability to make them taste just like a restaurant – but while wearing your robe – was a selling point for me.
Crock Pot Meatballs: Even though about 99% of the population has this recipe memorized, if you’re one of the 1% of the world who might gag at the thought of adding grape jelly to your meatballs, I’m here to tell you that you’re missing out on what could qualify as the 8th wonder of the world.
I don’t know about you, but the concept of a “dessert stomach” is something I fully embrace. Even if it’s just a single bite, many of your guests are probably similar. These desserts are easy to make and guaranteed crowd pleasers.
Cookie Dough Dip: If you’re sensing a cream cheese theme, nice job. It’s basically the base for all my favorite foods. This dessert is no exception. I love to spread mini vanilla wafers and graham cracker pieces around the edge of a dish with a big bowl of this stuff in the middle. Yum.
Sugar Cookie Truffles: No one likes to spend all day in a hot kitchen preparing for guests, so this no-bake option is a big winner in my book. Love that these can be decorated however you’d like – really impress your friends with team colored sprinkles!
