Pro Tips for Tailgating & Homegating Success 🏈

Let’s start at the pregame show!

Before the Game

Plan the Menu Early: Choose recipes you can prep ahead or cook quickly, that morning.

Marinate Overnight: Meats taste better and save you time on game day.

Pack Smart: Use clear bins to organize plates, napkins, utensils, and condiments.

Tailgating

Keep Cold Foods Cold: Freeze water bottles to use as cooler ice packs.

Bring Extra Fuel: Propane, charcoal, or even lighter fluid—don’t risk running out.

Label Everything: Use team-colored duct tape to mark drinks, coolers, or even chairs.

At Home (Homegating)

Use Slow Cookers: Keep dips, chili, and wings warm all game long.

Create a Kid Zone: A small craft table or football-themed coloring pages keep little fans happy.

Set the Mood: Team colors, balloons, and a themed snack table turn your living room into a mini stadium. — a lot of stuff is currently 40% off at Hobby Lobby!

Game Day Hacks

Finger Foods Win: Easy to grab means less cleanup. I’m a huge fan of dips.

Double Up on Napkins: Football food is deliciously messy. Bring napkins and wipes.

Bring a Trash Bag: Whether at home or outside, it’s a lifesaver for quick cleanup.

WINNING RECIPES:

🧀 Sheet Pan Nachos

Tortilla chips Shredded cheese Black beans Jalapeños Sour cream, salsa, guac

Directions: Spread chips on a baking sheet, top with beans + cheese, bake at 400°F for 10 minutes. Add toppings and serve hot.

🌮 Walking Tacos

Individual bags of Doritos or Fritos Taco meat (ground beef or turkey) Toppings: shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream

Directions: Open chip bags, spoon in taco meat and toppings. No plates needed!

🥒 Ranch Pickle Bites

Dill pickle slices Cream cheese Everything bagel seasoning

Directions: Spread cream cheese on pickles, sprinkle seasoning on top. Easy, crunchy, addicting.

🍫 S’mores Dip

Chocolate chips Mini marshmallows Graham crackers

Directions: In a skillet, layer chocolate chips + marshmallows, bake until gooey (about 10 minutes at 375°F). Scoop with graham crackers.

Want more recipes? Check them out here: https://shanisty.com/2020/10/09/5-easy-recipes-for-home-gating-this-football-season/

https://myfox28columbus.com/good-day-columbus/college-football-season-ohio-state-university-buckeyes-tailgate-food-dips-sides-snacks-desserts#