50 Tailgate Appetizers That Always Score Big

Pack up the car, pop up the tent and pull out the table for these tailgate appetizers. They're game day ready and perfectly portioned for sharing with all your rowdy friends.

Once sweater weather hits and the sounds of Sunday night football take over televisions, there’s only one thing on my mind: Buffalo chicken dip. I think it’s one of the best tailgate appetizers of all time, but touchdown-worthy snacks go far beyond this beloved bite.

From loaded dips and pinwheel recipes to antipasto skewers, pizza wedges and saucy meatball appetizers, you’ll find a massive assortment of options here in this well-curated list of tailgating finger foods. We chose these recipes because they’re crowd-pleasing, endlessly snackable and transportable. Plus, they offer something for every type of tailgater, whether you’re craving the classics or ready to try something new.

Many of these dishes are designed with real tailgaters in mind, meaning they can be prepped in advance, travel well and stay fresh throughout the party. Stock up on a few of our suggested best coolers for chilled items, enlist your trusty slow cooker to keep hot dips warm and gooey and pack up everything else in the best food storage containers to prevent leaks and spills from your kitchen to the parking lot.

Since tailgating is all about sharing, this collection includes snack ideas that are already big enough for a crowd, but you can always double your favorites to guarantee leftovers (if you’re lucky) or make a few extra recipes to keep everyone satisfied through halftime. Whichever dishes you choose, these tailgating recipes are guaranteed to score big with your guests long before kickoff.

1/50

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Total Time:30 min
Servings:about 2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is the best buffalo chicken dip recipe! Whenever I bring buffalo dip to a tailgate or potluck, everyone asks for the recipe. —Peggy Foster, Florence, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 152 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 409mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.

Check out these irresistible football foods, too!

2/50

Football Fest Empanadas

Total Time:40 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Classic empanadas from South America are pastries stuffed with beef or chicken, usually fried. That doesn't mean "classic" never changes. Chicken goes well with black beans, corn and jalapenos in this baked version with a southwestern spin. —Jane McMillan, Dania Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 empanada with 1 tablespoon salsa: 197 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 291mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
3/50

Slaw-Topped Beef Sliders

Total Time:26 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When I’m in need of a fast-to-fix tailgate food idea, I relied on these delicious beef sliders. To speed prep time and avoid extra cleanup, I used bagged coleslaw mix and bottled slaw dressing. —Jane Whittaker, Pensacola, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 322 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 726mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 20g protein.

Also, check out these mouthwatering Super Bowl slow-cooker appetizers, which are perfect for a game-day party.

4/50

Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Bites

Total Time:55 min
Servings:about 3-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These tasty morsels are perfect with almost any egg dish or as finger foods party guests can just pick up and pop into their mouths. —Pat Waymire, Yellow Springs, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 51 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
5/50

Spicy Honey Sriracha Game Day Dip

Total Time:3 hours 20 min
Servings:12 (3 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: You can easily whip up this creamy, spicy and salty dip. I love dips for tailgates in the slow cooker—just turn the slow cooker to low once it is cooked and let your guests help themselves. No need to worry about the dip getting cold and having to reheat it. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 168 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 243mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
6/50

Ham-Cheddar Cheese Ball

Total Time:15 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With the classic combo of ham and cheese, this spread is a year-round favorite at our house. For football parties, shape the ham and cheese ball into a football and add strips of Swiss for the laces. —Michele Moore, Mooresville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons (calculated without crackers): 108 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 162mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
7/50

Meatball Sliders

Total Time:1 hour 30 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These meatball sliders are a fun way to serve meatballs at your party without using a slow cooker. Made on mini Hawaiian rolls, they have a hint of sweetness to balance out all the wonderful Italian seasonings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 467 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 804mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
8/50

Dill Pickle Dip

Total Time:10 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My love for pickles led me to create this dip. It's so easy to whip together. But be warned, it's addictive! —April Anderson, Forest Lake, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 108 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 210mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
9/50

Garbage Bread

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My garbage bread recipe captures the flavor of a classic, fast food cheeseburger, with onions, pickles, ketchup and mustard. This is now one of our favorite dinners, although it's a fun dish to serve at parties, too! —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 317 calories, 18g fat (8g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 811mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 17g protein.
10/50

Loaded Cowboy Queso

Total Time:30 min
Servings:24 (6 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Loaded Cowboy Queso is the ultimate football dip! This easy tailgate food idea is loaded with cheese, beer, black beans, tomatoes and sausage. I often serve it with homemade tortilla chips sprinkled with taco seasoning. —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 110 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 461mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
11/50

Cranberry Feta Pinwheels

Total Time:20 min
Servings:40 appetizers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These pretty pinwheels will disappear so fast, it will make you head spin! 'The dried cranberries and chopped green onions make these perfect for a Christmas buffet,' suggests Joyce Benninger from Owen Sound, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 3 each: 97 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 183mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
12/50

Bacon Crackers

Total Time:30 min
Servings:24 crackers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This appetizer is low-effort—with only four ingredients and 20 minutes in the oven—and high-packed with flavor. Brown sugar and black pepper are sprinkled on bacon for a sweet and savory bite and then placed on a buttery saltine to tie it all together. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 2 crackers: 58 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 163mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
13/50

Beer Dip

Total Time:5 min
Servings:3-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Ranch dressing mix flavors this easy dip packed with shredded cheese. It's perfect paired with pretzels. Be forewarned, though—it's hard to stop eating once you've started! The beer cheese dip can be made with any type of beer, including nonalcoholic. I've taken it to many parties and I am always asked for the recipe. —Michelle Long, New Castle, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 93 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 184mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
14/50

Barbecued Party Starters

Total Time:2 hours 45 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These sweet and tangy bites will tide over everyone until dinner. At the buffet, set out some fun toothpicks to make for easy nibbling. —Anastasia Weiss, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1/3 cup: 237 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 491mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
15/50

Fresh Veggie Pizza

Total Time:25 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: There's no need to bring confetti to your next snack-time gathering. Just carry in this colorful veggie pizza that's topped with a rainbow of crunchy vegetables! Guests usually don't even guess this delicious pizza is low-fat. —Brooke Wiley, Halifax, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 164 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 623mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
16/50

Cheeseburger Dip

Total Time:2 hours 10 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This fun dip recipe uses ingredients that I always have in the fridge, so it's easy to throw together on short notice. —Cindi DeClue, Anchorage, Alaska
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 157 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 225mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 10g protein.
17/50

Garlic Pizza Wedges

Contest Winner
Total Time:25 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My friend made this tailgate food, and my husband and I just couldn’t stay away from the snack table! —Krysten Johnson, Simi Valley, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 119 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 193mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
18/50

Mustard Dip for Pretzels

Total Time:5 min
Servings:1-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With just four ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge, this quick appetizer comes together in a snap. If you like the zip of horseradish, start with a teaspoon or two and add more to taste. —Isabelle Rooney, Summerville, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoon: 154 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 428mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
19/50

Bacon Cheeseburger Balls

Contest Winner
Total Time:35 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The first time I served these, my husband and kids thought we were having plain meatballs. Then they cut into the flavorful filling inside! —Cathy Lendvoy, Boharm, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts: 1 ball: 75 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 137mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.

Also, check out some tailgate grilling ideas.

20/50

Taco Meatball Ring

Contest Winner
Total Time:45 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: While it looks complicated, this attractive meatball-filled ring is really very easy to assemble. My family loves tacos, and we find that the crescent roll dough is a nice change from the usual tortilla shells or chips. —Brenda Johnson, Davison, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 203 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 457mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
21/50

Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls

Total Time:35 min
Servings:16 rolls
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My husband loves Buffalo wings, but they are so messy! These Buffalo chicken rolls are mess-free and always go fast at tailgates—and they’re much tastier than regular Buffalo wings, if you ask me. —Tiffinie Cichon, Gulfport, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 175 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 372mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
22/50

Dill Dip

Total Time:10 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Be prepared—you'll likely need to make a double batch of this delightful dill dip recipe. One batch is never enough when we have a get-together! It tastes fantastic with just about any vegetable, so you can use whatever you have on hand as a dipper. —Kathy Beldorth, Three Oaks, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 123 calories, 13g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 219mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
23/50

Buffalo Chicken Wings

Total Time:25 min
Servings:about 4 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Hot wings got their start in Buffalo, New York, in a kitchen. Although there was no game on at the time, today spicy wings and cool sauces are traditional tailgate fare. Cayenne, red sauce and spices keep these tangy buffalo chicken wings good and hot, just like the originals. —Nancy Chapman, Center Harbor, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 126 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 105mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
24/50

Cilantro & Lime Chicken with Scoops

Total Time:3 hours 45 min
Servings:16 (4 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I came up with this recipe when I was preparing for a large party and wanted a healthy Tex-Mex chicken to serve in tortilla chip cups. You can make this party dish ahead of time to free yourself for time-sensitive dishes. Serve it in tortilla cups or any other savory, crispy cup you like. Enjoy the leftovers over salad greens or wrapped up in tender tortillas for burritos. —Lori Terry, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup chicken mixture: 97 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 183mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 medium-fat meat.
25/50

Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders

Total Time:40 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I created this dish to fill two pans because these sliders disappear fast. Cut the recipe in half if you want one batch. —Nick Iverson, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 380 calories, 24g fat (13g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 628mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.
26/50

Bacon Dip

Contest Winner
Total Time:2 hours 15 min
Servings:4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I've tried assorted appetizers before, but this one is a surefire people-pleaser. The thick bacon cheese dip has lots of flavor and keeps my guests happily munching as long as it lasts. I serve it with tortilla chips or sliced French bread. —Suzanne Whitaker, Knoxville, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 261 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 417mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 11g protein.
27/50

Cranberry Sauerkraut Meatballs

Total Time:4 hours 15 min
Servings:about 5 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I tried these meatballs at a birthday party for a friend, and now I make them all the time. They are super easy to make and perfect for a potluck or a Sunday afternoon football game. —Lisa Castelli, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 meatball with about 1 tablespoon sauce: 76 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 250mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
28/50

Taco Pinwheels

Total Time:15 min
Servings:3 dozen pinwheels
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These pinwheels come together quickly when you start with leftover taco meat. They make an appealing tailgate food idea served with salsa, or a fun lunch option with a salad on the side. —Cindy Reams, Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 pinwheel: 51 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 84mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
29/50

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Total Time:35 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I like to dunk these appetizer meatballs in blue cheese or ranch salad dressing. If I make them for a meal, I often skip the dressing and serve with blue cheese polenta on the side. —Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 meatball: 33 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 338mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
30/50

Jalapeno Popper Spread

Total Time:35 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I've been told by fellow partygoers that this recipe tastes exactly like a jalapeno popper. I like that it can be made without much fuss. —Ariane McAlpine, Penticton, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 239 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
31/50

Crispy Party Bites

Contest Winner
Total Time:25 min
Servings:2-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These are so quick to make and are great as a bite-sized appetizer. Throughout the years, I have substituted different meats, toppings and cheese, and it's always a favorite of guests. —Kristie Schley, Pasadena, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 51 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 149mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
32/50

Avocado Salsa

Contest Winner
Total Time:20 min
Servings:about 7 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I was planning a party and thought it might be fun to try a different kind of avocado salsa. This recipe was an absolute success. Scoop it up with chips, spoon it over chicken or steak, or eat it on its own! —Susan Vandermeer, Ogden, Utah
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 82 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 85mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
33/50

Mini Mac & Cheese Dogs

Total Time:40 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We wanted to get creative with hot dogs, so we made a mac-and-cheesy one. Pile on the extra cheese, relish and even bacon. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 198 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 446mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
34/50

Loaded Pulled Pork Cups

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:1-1/2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Potato nests are simple to make and surprisingly handy for pulled pork, cheese, sour cream and other toppings. Make, bake, and collect the compliments. —Melissa Sperka, Greensboro, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 1 hash brown cup: 129 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 439mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
35/50

Bourbon Candied Bacon Deviled Eggs

Total Time:45 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: At our house, it doesn’t get any better than deviled eggs with bacon—bourbon candied bacon, that is. See if you can resist them. We can’t. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 stuffed egg half: 107 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 97mg cholesterol, 142mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
36/50

Southern Pimiento Cheese Spread

Total Time:10 min
Servings:1-1/4 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A classic southern comfort food, this spread is used as an appetizer with crackers, corn chips or celery. It is also smeared between two slices of white bread for sandwiches and as a topping for hamburgers and hot dogs. —Eileen Balmer, South Bend, Indiana.
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 116 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
37/50

Antipasto Skewers

Total Time:35 min
Servings:40 appetizers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My husband and I met at a cooking class. We have loved creating menus and entertaining ever since. These make-ahead antipasto skewers are always a hit. —Denise Hazen, Cincinnati, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 kabob: 66 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 315mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
38/50

Chicken Cordon Bleu Sliders

Total Time:2 hours 50 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I’m always searching for new ideas for sandwiches because they’re my favorite food. I created these sliders with the flavors of a classic dish. This was one taste experiment that met with the family’s approval. —Carolyn Eskew, Dayton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 slider: 209 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 254mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 14g protein.
39/50

Obatzda (German Cheese Dip)

Total Time:15 min
Servings:3-1/2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Obatzda, otherwise known as German beer cheese dip, is so delicious and creamy. It’s the perfect dip to make the night before a tailgate. —Beate Trinkl, Einsbach, Germany
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 79 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 183mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
40/50

Italian Meatballs and Sausages

Total Time:4 hours 10 min
Servings:8 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a wonderful nibble for a tailgate or any family function. The snack is so easy to prepare and also very tasty. I’ve doubled and even tripled the recipe for large groups. No matter how much I make, I always come home with an empty slow cooker. —Jan Kasinger, Graham, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 200 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 663mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
41/50

Homemade Guacamole

Total Time:10 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I always judge a Tex-Mex restaurant by its guacamole. And although it's simple to prepare, it can go wrong oh, so easily. I've spent many years perfecting mine, to the point where I think it's better than most restaurants. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 90 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 78mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
42/50

Caprese Skewers

Total Time:10 min
Servings:12 kabobs
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 kabob: 44 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
43/50

Smoked-Almond Cheese Toasts

Total Time:30 min
Servings:3 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I created my recipe for appetizer toasts while planning the menu for a friend's bridal luncheon. Smoked almonds add a special touch to the chunky cheese spread. —Laura Murphy, Columbus, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts: 1 appetizer: 81 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 103mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
44/50

Green & Gold Salsa

Total Time:10 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Edamame and corn give this unique salsa its unmistakable team colors. You can add a little salt if you like, too. A healthy alternative to creamy dips, it’s good for the extra point. —Maggie Lovat, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1/4 cup: 48 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
45/50

Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs

Total Time:25 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My daughter Sara loves spicy Buffalo chicken and deviled eggs, so I combined the two. Make and chill a day ahead so the flavors mingle. —Robin Spires, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 stuffed egg half: 85 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 111mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
46/50

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Total Time:30 min
Servings:3 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: One taste of this outrageously delicious hot spinach artichoke dip and your guests will not stop eating it until it's gone. The savory blend of artichokes, spinach and Parmesan cheese is positively addictive! It tastes even better if you make it the night before and chill it in the fridge before baking. —Michelle Krzmarzick, Torrance, California
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 68 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 139mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
47/50

Ground Beef Taco Dip

Total Time:20 min
Servings:24
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: What's a football party without taco dip? This version made with spicy ground beef and fresh toppings does not disappoint the die-hards. It is full of classic flavors and is a little extra filling for game day appetites. —Errika Perry, Green Bay, WI
Nutrition Facts: 1/2 cup: 116 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
48/50

Antipasto Bake

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:20
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Stuffed with savory meats and cheeses, these hearty antipasto squares would satisfy an entire offensive line! The dish comes together quickly and bakes in under an hour, making it the perfect party bring-along. Introducing the all-stars in this ooey gooey appetizer: salami, Swiss, pepperoni, Colby-Monterey Jack, prosciutto and provolone. A crisp topping finishes it off. —Brea Barclay, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 229 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 662mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 11g protein.
49/50

Loaded Baked Potato Dip

Contest Winner
Total Time:10 min
Servings:10 (2-1/2 cups)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 0.250 cup: 208 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 286mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
50/50

Buffalo Wing Poppers

Contest Winner
Total Time:40 min
Servings:40 appetizers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These buffalo chicken poppers combine the flavor of hot wings and jalapeño appetizers to make a snack greater than the sum of their parts. —Barbara Nowakowski, Mesa, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 1 popper: 57 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 159mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.

Tailgate Appetizers FAQ

What should I bring to a tailgate party?

If you’re attending rather than hosting a tailgate party, dips and spreads are the simplest to haul. You can’t go wrong with travel-friendly Southern pimento cheese spread, Buffalo chicken dip, spinach-artichoke dip or jalapeno popper spread. Then, set out various dippers, like corn chips, crackers or crisp crudite. Bring warm dips in a slow cooker and plug it in when you get to the party. Different deviled eggs variations are another winning idea. Prep the fillings ahead of time and assemble them once you arrive.

What are the best finger foods for tailgating?

The best tailgating finger foods are bite-sized, portable and easy to enjoy while mingling. Anything you can eat without cutlery is fair game, like Caprese or antipasto skewers, pepperoni pinwheels, pigs in a blanket and apricot-glazed bacon spirals. Sliders are another ultimate game-day snack, much more manageable than tackling a giant, messy burger in the parking lot. Try different variations, such as chicken cordon bleu sliders, slaw-topped beef sliders, meatball sliders or bacon cheeseburger sliders.

How do you keep appetizers warm at a tailgate?

Slow cookers and Instant Pot recipes are the real MVPs for warm appetizers on game day. They hold heat like a champ and can plug into a travel power bank or your vehicle. Insulated carriers and thermal bags also work wonders for foods like sliders, pigs in a blanket or baked dips. They’ll stay toasty for well over an hour if you wrap the dish in a clean towel before tucking it inside.

For anything fried or crispy, line the container with parchment and vent the lid slightly so the steam doesn’t turn the food soggy. And if you really want to go pro, a small portable grill or tabletop burner can revive anything that needs a quick reheat once you’re set up in the lot.