The return of fall means the return of so many of our favorite annual traditions. Whether you’re heading to the mountains to admire the changing leaves, picking pumpkins at a local patch, getting lost in a corn maze, or sipping hot apple cider, there’s something about this time of year that inspires feelings of coziness, nostalgia, and togetherness.
Among the most celebrated of traditions is the start of another football season, which is especially exciting following our mostly sportless spring and summer. No tailgate tradition is complete without a full spread of appetizers, snacks, and finger foods to fill you up before kickoff. We’ve come up with some tailgating-inspired recipes that you can make and enjoy in the comfort of your own home. And even if you aren’t really a football fan, these can be enjoyed with any sport (which may be the case this year!) or for any occasion. From skillet nachos with all the fixings to loaded potato wedges, cheeseburger sliders, and a fall-inspired apple treat, we’ve got your tailgating menu covered with touchdown-worthy recipes to feed a crowd. Oh, and you can forget about the scoreboard – these four dishes will be the real winners.
Caramelized Onion & Swiss Beef Sliders
Photo credit: Jessi Heggan
These crowd-pleasing Caramelized Onion & Swiss Beef Sliders feature fresh arugula, spicy mustard, pickles and delicious caramelized onions to top it all off.
Skillet Beef Nachos
Photo credit: Jessi Heggan
Ground beef, pinto beans, jalapeños and melted cheddar cheese combine in these easy Skillet Nachos topped with pico de gallo and guacamole.
Buffalo Chicken Loaded Potato Wedges
Photo credit: Jessi Heggan
Two game-day favorites combine in these Loaded Potato Wedges topped with Buffalo chicken, bacon and cheese.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Photo credit: Jessi Heggan
Every good tailgate party needs a festive fall dessert. Try these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Barsfor a treat all your guests are sure to love.