Poker Night Food 

August 19, 2009
Randy Mayor; Melanie J. Clarke
Host a high-stakes night in with food so good that your guests won't dare call your bluff.
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Party-Starting Drinks

Photo: William Dickey
Sure, rules, cards, and chips are crucial for any poker night, but it's also important to get the party off on the right note, so have drinks ready for guests as they arrive. Some players may prefer cocktails while they gamble, so we're suggesting mixing up the expected (beer!) with the unexpected (not beer!) by serving one of these delicious beer beverages. Theme the party as a fiesta and go with the Beer 'Garitas for a satisfying sipper.

Our Favorite Beer Beverages
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Serve Hearty Appetizers

Photo: Karry Hosford
The red and black chips on the table shouldn't be the only chips you should be invested in. Serve a hearty appetizer that's easy to eat with one hand, so as to better conceal your cards, and delicious to boot. Unlike salsas or cheese dips, guacamole won't drip, so your card table will stay in pristine condition.

Recipe: Guacamole with Chipotle Tortilla Chips

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Slice Up a Starter

Randy Mayor; Jan Gautro
Game nights can run long, especially if all players are enjoying the big night. Plan your food accordingly. Bring out main dishes every hour or so, starting with this cheesy Chicago-style pie. The spicy sausage adds bold flavor and a boost of protein, to keep the players going.

Recipe: Chicago-Style Pizza

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High-Stakes Stacker

Randy Mayor
When the chips are gone and the pizza plate is picked clean, bring out these satisfying stackers. Use precooked bacon as a time-saver on the big night to ensure you don't miss a hand. Cook the sandwiches ahead of time, then warm them just before serving or plate them at room temperature.

Recipe: Pressed Cubano with Bacon

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Best Hand in the House

Randy Mayor; Melanie J. Clarke
Keep the one-hand-dish theme running throughout the evening by serving this ooey-gooey treats on the last hand of the night. No fair marking your cards with the melted chocolate.

Recipe: Pecan Bar Cookies

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