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Grilling 24x7 » Recipes » Best Tailgate Recipes ( Over 50 Recipes)

Best Tailgate Recipes ( Over 50 Recipes)

by Frank Campanella 2 Comments

If you want to have the best tailgate spread for the big game then you have come to the right place.

Tailgate appetizers, sides, and big meat mains will keep every belly full long after the game is over.

Over 50 of the best tailgate recipes for the super bowl or just any big game

tailgate recipe round up graphic


Table of contents

  • Appetizers
  • Salads and Sides
  • Main Dish
  • Dessert
  • FAQ and Tailgating Tips
  • Bonus Recipes (Top 5 Tailgate Sauces)
fire coming out of a grill at a tailgate

Best tailgate recipes that you can bring with you or cook on site. You'll be the Tailgate Master making everyone jealous.

This list will give you some great ideas for Main dishes, Appetizers, Sides, and even Dessert so you have all your bases covered for your next tailgate.

Tailgating for NFL football games has to be my favorite activity. Not only is there tremendous anticipation for the upcoming game, but you also get to drink beer and grill with your friends.

In fact, tailgating is so important to me and my friends that we tried to tailgate for my bachelor party in a hotel parking lot in Baltimore city before going out on the town.

Sadly, hotel employees informed us that a live fire in the parking lot with 10 or so guys drinking beer is not the smartest idea.

They were probably right. Anyway, I have compiled a list of some of my favorite recipes that work really well for tailgating.

appetizer thumbnail

Appetizers

Here are some great ways to kick off the tailgate. I always like to have a few cold appetizers that you can set out while you are getting the grills fired up.

That way anyone who gets there early has something to snack on

Smoked Honey Old Bay Wings
The perfect balance of smoky, spicy and sweet all in one tasty wing. Adding the element of smoke to your honey old bay wings takes this recipe to another level
Check out this recipe
dipped smoked wing in ranch dressing glazed with honey old bay
Pepperoni Bread
An absolute tailgate hit! This pepperoni roll is the perfect game day snack - packed with pepperoni, cheeses, and sweet peppers
Check out this recipe
pepperoni bread with fresh mozzarella and dipping sauces
Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings
These oven-baked peanut butter and jelly chicken wings are reminiscent of a Thai peanut sauce with a touch of sticky sweetness. They are flavorful, juicy, and delicious!
Check out this recipe
Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings
Smoked Brisket Queso Dip
This Smoked Queso Dip using Leftover Brisket Recipe gives new life to smoked beef brisket so not a single bite of beef is waisted. 
Check out this recipe
dipping a smoked triscuit into smoked queso dip
Mexican Street Corn Dip
Everyone’s favorite Mexican side dish turns into the best ever Mexican Street Corn Dip. You don’t even need chips, just grab a spoon!
Check out this recipe
Mexican Street Corn Dip
Mini Taco Bowls
Mini Taco Bowls are the perfect party food for holiday entertaining, game day or just to have as a delicious snack. With just a little prep, these little taco bites can be assembled in under 10 minutes! You must try this super easy ground beef appetizer!
Check out this recipe
Mini Taco Bowls
Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip
This Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip is ready in less than 15 minutes with big buffalo chicken flavor. Perfect easy appetizer.
Check out this recipe
keto buffalo chicken dip served in a cast iron skillet with pork rinds
Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey
These Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Honey require only 4 ingredients and are so easy to make for an appetizer or snack.
Check out this recipe
Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey
Smoking Chicken Legs
These smoked chicken legs are juicy, tender, and practically fall off the bone. They are perfect for smoking on the pellet grill if you need to feed a crowd.
Check out this recipe
metal basket lined with deli paper filled with bbq chicken legs
Smoked Jalapeno Peppers
Smoked stuffed jalapeno peppers are the ultimate taigate appetizer for your next gameday. Cheesy spicy bacony goodness!!
Check out this recipe
Smoked Stuffed Jalapeños dipped in southwest ranch
Crab Cake Egg Rolls
The latest food trend to hit Baltimore is Crab Cake Egg Rolls. This air fried version with old bay aioli can be made at home in no time. No need to go out when you can make a healthier take on crab cake egg rolls at home.
Check out this recipe
Crab cake egg rolls with old bay aioli
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers | EASY Recipe! | Confetti & Bliss
Make these easy teriyaki chicken skewers! After marinating in a savory homemade sauce, chicken is threaded onto skewers and grilled. So good!
Check out this recipe
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers | EASY Recipe! | Confetti & Bliss
Ham & Cheese Sliders — Salt & Baker
Delicious ham and cheese sliders topped with a honey mustard poppy seed sauce.
Check out this recipe
Ham & Cheese Sliders — Salt & Baker
Bacon Wrapped Smoked Chicken Tenders
These Quick and Easy pellet grill Bacon-Wrapped Tenders are one of my family's favorite appetizers on our smoker and Low-Carb.
Check out this recipe
bacon wrapped chicken tenders
Cream Cheese Jalapeno Poppers with Bacon (Low Carb, Gluten-Free)
This bacon cream cheese jalapeno poppers recipe is made with 7 ingredients, and is ready in less than 30 minutes! Naturally low carb + keto.
Check out this recipe
Cream Cheese Jalapeno Poppers with Bacon (Low Carb, Gluten-Free)
Mini Bacon and Onion Pasties
My Mini Bacon and Onion Pasties may look impressive, but they’re one of the most simple recipes! They’re a delicious, savoury appetiser that’s always a hit.
Check out this recipe
Mini Bacon and Onion Pasties
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Bacon Wrapped Scallops can be made any time of the year in the oven, or on the grill! Grilling them alongside some grilled veges is so easy!
Check out this recipe
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Instant Pot BBQ Hawaiian Little Smokies
A quick and easy instant pot appetizer recipe with little smokies cooked in BBQ sauce with pineapple. This is a great appetizer for your game day menu, holiday dinner, or office potluck. #lilsmokies
Check out this recipe
Instant Pot BBQ Hawaiian Little Smokies
Pulled Pork Sliders (BBQ Pork Sliders) - The Kitchen Girl
BBQ pulled pork sliders with juicy, tender shredded pork and (homemade optional) coleslaw, tangy bbq sauce, dill pickle, and fried onions.
Check out this recipe
Pulled Pork Sliders (BBQ Pork Sliders) - The Kitchen Girl
Caribbean Jerk Grilled Chicken Tenders
These Grilled Chicken tenders seasoned with Caribbean Jerk spice are perfect for dipping and are much healthier than fried chicken tenders.
Check out this recipe
dipping jerk chicken tender into honey dijon dressing
The Very Best Homemade Spinach Artichoke Dip
4-Cheese Spinach Artichoke Dip is super special with goat cheese and fresh garlic! This version uses hardly any mayo and is full of flavor.
Check out this recipe
The Very Best Homemade Spinach Artichoke Dip
Bang Bang Shrimp Dip
This Bang Bang Shrimp Dip is a tasty take on the wildly popular appetizer from bonefish grill. I’ve taken all the sweet and spicy flavors of that magical sauce and transformed it into a dip that everyone will go crazy for.
Check out this recipe
bang bang shrimp dip with crispy seaweed chips and crackers
Muffuletta Dip
This Muffuletta Dip is an easy low carb recipe based on my favorite sandwich in the Big Easy. This dip is perfect for any Game Day snacking or family gatherings. Loaded with flavor and ready in no time.
Check out this recipe
Muffuletta Dip
salads and sides thumbnail

Salads and Sides

Again even a collection of cold and hot sides gives variety so you can bring some things like pasta salad and coleslaw that are ready to go.

You can prep the hot sides in aluminum pans and either bring them hot or heat them up on the grill if you have the space.

Southwest Pasta Salad with Shrimp
This Southwest Pasta Salad with shrimp is a delicious twist on traditional pasta salads with southwest flavors and chilled shrimp.
Check out this recipe
southwestern pasta salad made with farfalle pasta , cheddar cheese, tomatoes and black olives
Smoked BBQ Beans
This recipe for Cast Iron Smoked Baked Beans is the best bbq bean recipe you will ever have. Loaded with 2 types of sausage and 5 types of beans
Check out this recipe
overhead view of cast iron smoked baked beans
White BBQ Broccoli Salad
This Broccoli Salad Recipe with Alabama White BBQ Sauce is one of the best BBQ sides you will ever try. Creamy cheesy Bacon and Broccoli
Check out this recipe
White BBQ Broccoli Salad
Velveeta Smoked Mac and Cheese
Smoked Mac and Cheese is the grown up version of everyones favorite side dish. A kiss of smoke give this Mac the extra kick to take it over the top.
Check out this recipe
Cast Iron smoked Mac & Cheese with Velveeta
Grilled French Fries
Grilled French Fries are a fantastic bbq side dish to make at your next cookout. Perfect with steaks, burgers and chicken.
Check out this recipe
grilled French fries with comeback sauce
BBQ Corn Ribs
These BBQ Corn Ribs have become one of my friends and family favorite tailgate appetizers. They grill up quick and are a fun unique way to enjoy corn on the cob.
Check out this recipe
corn ribs with dukes mayo
Corn and Avocado Summer Salad
This corn and avocado summer salad is the perfect cookout side dish. Full of bright colors and delicious fresh ingredients. Make this for your next cookout and watch it disappear.
Check out this recipe
fresh summer sides corn and avocado summer salad
Taylor Pork Roll Deviled Eggs
These Taylor Roll Deviled Eggs will have your friends and family popping these delicious bites of awesomeness until every last one is gone.
Check out this recipe
Taylor Pork Roll Deviled Eggs
Cast Iron Roasted New Potatoes
These cast iron roasted new potatoes are my favorite way to prepare potatoes.
Check out this recipe
roasted New Potatoes topped with fresh sliced scallions
Classic Southern Squash Casserole
This Classic Southern Squash Casserole is a fantastic recipe that loaded with creamy cheesy goodness and a great way to showcase yellow squash.
Check out this recipe
classic southern yellow squash casserole recipe
Classic Southern Coleslaw Recipe
This Southern Coleslaw Recipe has been in my family for generations and is a staple at any family gathering, cookouts and more
Check out this recipe
Classic Southern Coleslaw Recipe
Avocado Corn Salsa
This Avocado Corn Salsa dip is a family favorite that we make for every single gathering because it’s always a crowd-pleasing, allergy-friendly appetizer or side. Plus it’s healthy, flavorful, fresh, and super fast, and easy to make!
Check out this recipe
Avocado Corn Salsa
main dish thumbnail

Main Dish

It's time to bring out the big guns and assert your dominance and master of the tailgate!

No holding back now, these crazy sports fans have been drinking for and hour waiting for some meat to come off the grill.

One tip is to always have one long cook smoked meat like Brisket or pulled pork that you can put on the pit overnight and wrap in the morning.

If you keep the meat in a dry cooler it can stay hot for hours and hours.

BEST Pellet Smoker Brisket Recipe
If you want to know how to make the best pellet grill brisket with great results every time then this post is guaranteed to make your next brisket better!!
Check out this recipe
sliced beef brisket hand carved on a cutting board
Buffalo Chicken Sloppy Joe's
These buffalo chicken sloppy joes are a super easy recipe that is ready in less than 30 minutes.
Check out this recipe
Buffalo chicken sloppy Joe on martins potato roll
Smoked Prime Rib
If you want to feel confident in making the best smoked prime rib than this is the recipe you need.
Check out this recipe
sliced smoked prime rib with a folded steel dahlia chef knife
How To Smoke Pork Ribs
These Pork Ribs smoked on a pellet grill are my favorite meat to smoke. The flavor of the smoke combined with that sticky, sweet sauce makes these smoked ribs the best you will ever taste.
Check out this recipe
Baby back ribs gas grill recipe
BBQ Smoked Pulled Chicken
This will be the easiest Smoked Pulled Chicken recipe you will ever make! Juicy smoked chicken is perfect for making sandwiches, tacos, and more
Check out this recipe
bbq pulled chicken on a wood block platter on a sesame seed roll with Cole slaw
Smothered Beer Braised Brats
Smothered Beer Braised Brats-Get it here. This is one meal you will to want to serve because the sauteed brats in pasta sauce is a wonderful combination.
Check out this recipe
Smothered Beer Braised Brats
Wisconsin Beer Brats
Wisconsin Beer Brats. Simmered in beer and onion, grilled, and served slathered in sauerkraut and mustard. Perfect for game day. #brats #grilling #footballfood #tailgating #superbowlfood
Check out this recipe
Wisconsin Beer Brats
Smoked Pork Shoulder
If you want delicious Smoked Pork Shoulder but don't want to stay up all night tending to a fire this is the pulled pork recipe for you!
Check out this recipe
smoked pork shoulder pulled pork sandwich
Smoked Beef Tenderloin
If you want to impress your guests Smoked Beef Tenderloin on the pellet grill is always a show stopper and great for large groups.
Check out this recipe
picking up a slice of beef tenderloin
Left Over Pulled Pork Cuban Casserole
Turn your leftover pulled pork into a delicious low carb Cuban Casserole. This healthy dinner is ready in no time using the leftovers out of your fridge.
Check out this recipe
Cuban Casserole in a cast iron skillet with a slice cut out
Green Chile Stuffed Pork Loin Fatty
Here is a tasty twist on the standard Fatty Recipe. This Green Chile Stuffed Pork Loin Fatty is spicy, cheesy meaty deliciousness.
Check out this recipe
Smoked Pork Tenderloin Green Chile Fatty Bacon Wrapped
Homemade Runzas - Nebraska’s Famous Runza Recipe made at Home
Make Nebraska’s famous Runzas at home! A bread dough pocket, filled with cabbage, onion, and seasoned ground beef, baked until golden brown.
Check out this recipe
Homemade Runzas - Nebraska’s Famous Runza Recipe made at Home
Pellet Grill Smoked Tri Tip
Smoked Tri Tip on the pellet grill is by far my favorite method for preparing this beautiful cut of beef
Check out this recipe
sliced smoked Tri Tip on a cutting board
desserts for Labor Day thumbnail

Dessert

It's almost game time but what would a tailgate be without a few treats to satisfy that sweet tooth.

Banana Split Grilled Dessert Nachos
A unique nachos recipe with all the flavors of a banana split - in an easy, healthy, fun grilled dessert! A simple yet decadent family favorite!
Check out this recipe
Banana Split Grilled Dessert Nachos
Fruit Salad With Poppy Seed Dressing
Easy fruit salad is the perfect spring and summer side dish! This 4-ingredient flavorful fruit salad recipe comes together so quickly.
Check out this recipe
Fruit Salad With Poppy Seed Dressing
Mississippi Mud Dessert Dip | Mississippi State Tailgate
This dessert is a show stopper! Bring Mississippi Mud dip to next party and you’ll be the tailgate fave. Luscious chocolate dip with chips, ’mallows + more.
Check out this recipe
Mississippi Mud Dessert Dip | Mississippi State Tailgate
Cherry Turnovers | EASY Cherry Hand Pie! | Confetti & Bliss
These cherry turnovers are light and crisp with amazing flake! So yummy. This is an EASY cherry hand pie recipe. Enjoy them bakery fresh!
Check out this recipe
Cherry Turnovers | EASY Cherry Hand Pie! | Confetti & Bliss
Edible Cookie Dough Cones - Waiting for Blancmange
These chocolate filled ice cream cones, topped with a dollop of edible chocolate chip cookie dough will be a fun new family friendly treat.
Check out this recipe
Edible Cookie Dough Cones - Waiting for Blancmange
Raspberry White Chocolate Cookies
These raspberry white chocolate cookies are soft, chewy, and ready in under 20 minutes! You can use white chocolate chips or chunks!
Check out this recipe
Raspberry White Chocolate Cookies
Nutella Blondies
These Nutella blondies are filled with a gooey thick layer of chocolate hazelnut spread inside and have a perfect crinkle top. This blonde brownies recipe is so easy too!
Check out this recipe
Nutella Blondies

FAQ and Tailgating Tips

How do you keep cold sides cold when serving?

Always bring extra ice to use for keeping side dishes cold. You can serve the sides in aluminum foil pans fill a second pan halfway with ice and place the cold sides on top. This will keep the sides cold for up to 2 hours depending on the temperature outside. Also having the cold sides in the shade under a tent helps.

How do You keep Smoked Meats like Brisket and Pulled Pork Hot?

After you have reached an internal temp that you want wrap the meat in foil place in a dry cooler and cover it with a towel. the meat will stay piping hot for at least 4 hours depending on the cooler. Then you can slice or shred on site.

What do you recommend for a handwashing station?

The easiest thing is to get yourself a 5-gallon bucket, 5-gallon water jug, and a Water dispenser. You can reuse the water jug with tap water and the dispenser is wireless so you can take it anywhere. Place the jug on a table or upside-down crate and place the bucket underneath to catch the dirty water. Have soap, paper towels, and a trash can nearby and you are set.

What's the best method for packing up and saving the leftovers?

The dry cooler that you had your hot food in will now become your cold leftover cooler. Cover all your sides with the aluminum foil lids and bag up all the meats in gallon freezer bags. Make sure there is plenty of ice in the cooler and load all the leftovers in.

brats on a grill with flames

Bonus Recipes (Top 5 Tailgate Sauces)

  • Blue Cheese
  • Ranch
  • Honey Dijon
  • Stout Beer BBQ Sauce
  • Comeback Sauce

Check out my 4th of July and Labor Day Round-Ups for Even More Recipes!!!!

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Comments

  1. Jersey Girl Cooks

    August 02, 2021 at 6:05 pm

    Great choices! Thanks for including my mini taco bowl recipe!

    Reply
    • Culinary Lion

      August 02, 2021 at 9:46 pm

      It caught my eye immediately, They look fantastic!! thank you for sharing the recipe.

      Reply

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If you love grilling, smoking and searing then you have come to the right place. Grilling 24x7 is your home for everything BBQ, Grilling and more. 

You'll find unique grilling recipes as well as a collection of bbq sides and sauces to make your next backyard cookout or tailgate a success.

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