Portable Tailgate Party Food

It’s time again for that great American sports tradition – tailgating for the big game. And everybody knows a quality tailgate includes a wide variety of delicious game day grub. So when you head to your parking lot party you want to make sure your hot dishes stay hot, and your cold dishes stay nice and cool. Let’s take a look at some tips for taking your tasty dishes on a road trip to your tailgate.

Keep the Hot Dishes Hot

If your game day dish brings the heat, there are a few handy ways to transport it to your tailgate:

• Slow Cooker – Provide safe, even heat by using a slow cooker. Just make sure there’s a power source and table.
• Heating Pad – Keep it warm with your favorite heating pad wrapped in a towel. And make sure you’ve got a proper surface where you can place your pad.
• Chafing Dish – Use this for a more elevated experience and consistent warmth. Just remember to use a flat surface and be aware of the open flame.
• Aluminum Foil – The old tried-and-true foil cover to your dish works well when there’s no power source nearby.

Check out some hot recipes for your tailgate.

Slow Cooker Pimento Cheese Dip

Pimento cheese and warm cheese dip come together for a mouthwatering appetizer everyone will love. Serve with pretzels, crackers or vegetable sticks.

Slow Cooker Chipotle Black Bean Dip

This divine dip is a masterful mix of refried beans, black beans, corn, salsa and chilies that will elevate any chip.

Slow Cooker Bacon Mac and Cheese

A delicious and cheesy slow-cooker meal comes to the rescue when you get home after a busy day.

Keep the Cold Dishes Cold

We’ve also got helpful tips for when your tailgating dish needs to stay cool like the Fonz:

Ice is Nice – Sometimes keeping it simple is best. Ice down a cooler for your dish to keep it chilly.

Made in the Shade – On a hot day, shade can be a dish’s best friend. Keep yours there for maximum cool.

Foiled Again – That’s right, foil works both ways. It can help lock in the cool temp when covering your dish.

Check out some cool dish ideas for tailgating.

Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe

Covered with an herb-infused butter and baked to perfection, serve warm or cold for a great game day snack.

Fruit Salad on a Stick

Assemble the fruit skewers before your party, but wait to drizzle the dressing over the top until just before serving.

Vegan Potato Salad

Potato salad makes the perfect side dish for any gathering. This vegan-friendly version also travels easily and can be prepared a day in advance.

Check out more great recipe ideas for tailgating, or any other occasion.