Easy Game Day Dips and Main Dishes
Depending upon which sport you are a fan of game day recipes are always useful. There seems to ALWAYS be a special sporting event around the corner, no matter the season. Last year I did superbowl themed television segments and had a little cameo from little helper. Here is a list of some great DishItGirl recipes to add to your celebratory spread!
The Dips:
Chicken Teriyaki Dip- I have to warn you this dip is SUPER flavorful and addicting. I use pre-made rotisserie chicken as a short cut!
Pulled Pork Layer Dip- Make way to much pulled pork? Grab some of the extra and make this satisfying dip.
Eggplant Caponata Dip- Need something a little more veggie forward, this is your crowd pleaser. It is the perfect make ahead dip because the flavors get better as they sit in the fridg
The Main Events:
Hot Honey Mac and Cheese - Kick up your mac and cheese a couple notches with adding in hot honey. Then top with crunch popcorn!
Steak and Mozzarella Sandwiches- Fresh mozzarella with steak, dipped in an easy gravy will for sure be your new favorite game dea meal!
Pulled Apple Cider Chicken Sandwiches- These are great for fall and winter sports. Not only for watching the game but for weeknights when your kids have practice!
Sausage and Peppers- This is a classic dish that never disappoints. What is best of all it can all be made on one sheet pan before your guests arrive.
Open Face Broccoli Cheese and Sausage Sandwiches- This classic combination is a welcomed change up to the classic sausage and peppers. The crumbled sausage cooks up in minutes and the broccoli gives it a little nutritional boost!
Crispy Garlic and Chickpea Fritters- Need something for your non meat eaters, this is the perfect solution! Serve with the spicy tomato sauce and you have a winning combo!
BBQ Chicken Apple Meatballs- These are a favorite no matter what the day! They are are great make ahead option, and make sure you make PLENTY of them ahead of time. They go quick!
5. Have a stash of unscented pillar candles and tea lights. They create ambiance and a festive look at a moment’s notice.
6. Stockpile festive plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery. Makes clean up a little easier, with less dishes to do. Plus, it adds to your tablescape/décor without too much fuss!
7. Do a pantry inventory prior to the holiday season. Make sure your heaviest used spices are filled, and not expired. Maybe buy a little
8. Make simple syrup for cocktails or a fun extra for coffee at brunch. Simple boil equal parts sugar and water. Add a cinnamon stick while simmering for an extra festive twist.
9. Have some seasonal treats on hand. It doesn’t hurt to have stash of candy canes or some egg nog in the fridge. Candy canes double as décor for a dessert or hot chocolate display. Also, great to crush up and top a cheesecake or other simple dessert.
10. It’s always good to have a plain bag of popcorn on hand. It can be made more interesting by adding some truffle oil or everything bagel seasoning! It is an instant hit at a cocktail party or a Christmas movie binge night.
11. A bottle of prosecco typically is inexpensive, and a little bubbly instantly makes things feel festive.
12. Have a holiday playlist saved and ready to go! That way you aren’t searching for music or an appropriate Pandora station minutes before people arrive.
13. There is nothing worse than an overflowing garbage can. Except for having flimsy garbage bags that break under the pressure of a holiday party. If you know you are having a large gathering have industrial garbage bags on hand will save you a lot of messy headache.
14. Don’t count out your kid’s snacks! Arrange their crackers on the cheese board, take their fruit snacks out of the bag and place them in tiny bowls within a dessert board. Use their clementine’s as a centerpiece! No one will know the difference; it is all in how you arrange them!
15. Ditch expensive centerpieces and turn seasonal fruits into festive centerpieces. Add greenery from the floral section of the grocery store and your favorite platter for some beautiful DIY decor
Most of all remember the main goal of the holiday season is to spend time together. It in is not all about what is on the table, but who is around it. That is where the warm feeling comes from, the connection made through the time spent with those you love. Your children and family members will carry that in their hearts, not the expensive gift which will one day be cast aside.
