Top 20 Tailgating Appetizers

Game-Winning Appetizers

Whether you're at the game or cheering from home, kick off your tailgating party with our first-string collection of snacks, spreads, and dips.

For starters, scoop up this hearty Cowboy Caviar.

Grilled Pepper Poppers

If the game isn't going your way, have no fear. These spicy cheese-filled poppers will fire up any Super Bowl bash. And try washing them down with a cool cocktail.

Recipe: Grilled Pepper Poppers

BLT Wraps

Wrap sandwiches are so versatile. You can fill them with your favorite meats and condiments for an array of options. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap or secure with a toothpick for easy pick-up-and-go treats.

Recipe: BLT Wraps

Red-Onion Dip

Forgo the plain-Jane onion dip from the grocery and try this quick-and-easy version filled with fresh ingredients. Impress fans by serving it with Garlic Pita Chips.

Recipe: Red-Onion Dip

Light Pimiento Cheese-Stuffed Celery

This recipe makes plenty to go around, so stuff some in celery stalks and serve the rest with crackers, apple wedges, or as a sandwich spread. Make pimiento cheese up to a week before game day and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Recipe: Light Pimiento Cheese-Stuffed Celery

Spinach-and-Artichoke Dip

Serve hot from the oven to those gathered 'round the big screen. Top off the savory dip with one of our favorite beer beverages.

Recipe: Spinach-and-Artichoke Dip

Barbecue Deviled Eggs

When you make deviled eggs, add some chopped smoked pork to the filling for a game-winning twist. Place the serving tray over ice to keep the appetizers cool during the celebration.

Recipe: Barbecue Deviled Eggs

Quick Creamy Vegetable Dip

Pair with crisp, fresh vegetables for a make-ahead dip. Chop and store the veggies in plastic bags in advance for easy service at the tailgate.

Recipe: Quick Creamy Vegetable Dip

Buffalo-Seasoned Chicken Fingers With Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce

Not only will kids gobble up these chicken fingers, but grown-up game-goers also will enjoy these filling finger foods. For a lighter appetizer, try Chicken Nuggets with Mustard Dipping Sauce.

Recipe: Buffalo-Seasoned Chicken Fingers With Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce

Crisp and Spicy Snack Mix

Serve this mix in individual paper cups adorned with your football team's colors for a portable snack that tailgaters can easily carry as they make the rounds.

Recipe: Crisp and Spicy Snack Mix

Roasted Corn Salsa

While you're grilling game-day burgers and brats, add some corn to the fire for this zesty recipe.

>The Scoop on Salsa

Recipe: Roasted Corn Salsa

Pigs in a Blanket

Just five ingredients are all you need to prepare crescent roll-wrapped sausages with honey mustard dipping sauce. This game-day starter is a favorite of even the youngest fans.

Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Cheddar Cheese Straws

Savory and rich with just a bit of a peppery bite, cheese straws are great for game-day snacking. They're especially easy to make and travel well.

Recipe: Cheddar Cheese Straws

Cruisin' Crab Dip

Use fresh crab meat or substitute chopped cooked shrimp for an inexpensive but equally delicious option. Create several fan-loving chip and dip recipes for a winning spread.

Recipe: Cruisin' Crab Dip

Spiced Mixed Nuts

Pack a staple snack mix that's perfect for munching anytime on game day. Take it to the tailgate in an airtight container, and then divide into individual plastic bags for a mid-game treat.

Recipe: Spiced Mixed Nuts

Chile-Cheese Spread

Serve this spread with assorted crackers and fresh vegetables, and it's certain to elicit cheers from your crowd. Can't get enough? Try more cheese dips and spreads.

Recipe: Chile-Cheese Spread

Smoky Ranch Dip

Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce give traditional Ranch dressing a smoky kick. Pair this versatile dip with chicken fingers, wings, carrot sticks, or potato chips at your next tailgate.

Recipe: Smoky Ranch Dip

Boiled Peanuts

Save yourself a trip to the concession stand by preparing this favorite football snack. If you're craving more flavor, try one of the savory variations included with the recipe.

Recipe: Boiled Peanuts

Honey Chicken Wings

You're sure to get a standing ovation when guests sample this sweet-hot salsa, honey, and ginger marinade. Bake the wings during the first quarter and serve at halftime with blue cheese or Ranch dressing.

Recipe: Honey Chicken Wings

Avocado-Tomatillo Dip with Cumin Pita Chips

Update game-day guacamole by adding tomatillos to the mix. Not only will they bring extra flavor, but they'll keep your dip from discoloring at the tailgate.

Recipe: Avocado-Tomatillo Dip with Cumin Pita Chips

More for Tailgating

Make your game-day party the best ever with more of our tailgating tips.

• Tailgating Recipes
• Tailgating Recipes Under $1
• The Complete Tailgating Guide
• The Essential Tailgating Recipes
• Xtreme Tailgating
• Tail-Trimming Tailgate Recipes
• Game-Day Wing Recipes