Game night snacks like warm dips, cheesy nachos and sweet treats bring big flavor to every round. No forks needed, just grab and snack.
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Fried Chicken Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
For game days, I shake up these saucy wings. When I run out, friends hover by the snack table until I bring out more. When they ask me how to fry chicken wings, they never believe it's so easy! —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 87 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 218mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
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Ham and Cheese Sliders
From the Recipe Creator:
My next-door neighbor shared this recipe with me and I simply cannot improve it! You can make it ahead and cook it quickly when company arrives. The combo of flavors makes these sandwiches so delicious. —Iris Weihemuller, Baxter, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 315 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 555mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
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Bacon Pretzel Fury
From the Recipe Creator:
I tried a bacon pretzel fury the last time I was at Busch Gardens, and afterward I ferociously tried to re-create it at home. I don’t live anywhere close to the amusement park, so this version curbs my hankerings when back in the Midwest. —Alvin Ciepluch, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 pretzel: 533 calories, 21g fat (9g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 1699mg sodium, 68g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
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Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket
From the Recipe Creator:
For New Year’s, I used to make pigs in a blanket with beef and cheddar. But now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration. —Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 82 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
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Mozzarella Sticks
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm particularly fond of these tasty mozzarella sticks because they're baked, not fried. Cheese is one of my family's favorite foods. Being of Italian descent, I cook often with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. —Mary Merchant, Barre, Vermont
Nutrition Facts:
2 sticks: 312 calories, 17g fat (10g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 749mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
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Chicken Nuggets
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to make these golden chicken nuggets because they’re so quick and easy. My whole family loves them. The seasoning can also be used on chicken breast halves to make amazing sandwiches. —Annette Ellyson, Carolina, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken: 214 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1/2 starch.
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Fried Jalapenos
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's an appetizer that will heat up any gathering. Family and friends often request that I make these jalapenos. —DeLea Lonadier, Montgomery, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed jalapeno: 109 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 433mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Spinach Artichoke Dip
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.
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Cheeseburger Nachos
From the Recipe Creator:
Cheeseburger nachos are the perfect game night food. Load them up with all the toppings or let everyone claim part of the platter that they can top with their faves. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 407 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 1082mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein.
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Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Chips
From the Recipe Creator:
This air-fryer sweet potato chips recipe is so quick and easy. Be sure to give the sweet potato slices a quick soak in cold water to help remove some of the excess starch. —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup chips with about 2 tablespoons dip: 285 calories, 16g fat (4g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 217mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein.
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Italian Sub
From the Recipe Creator:
My Italian husband grew up eating this flavorful sandwich, which his mother used to make it after Saturday chores were finished. Put the sub together a few hours ahead and refrigerate, then serve with chips, veggies and dip for a delicious meal. —Christine Lupella, Fifty Lakes, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 340 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 1130mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 18g protein.
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Confetti Snack Mix
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve made this party mix for many years, and I usually double the recipe. It makes a delightful gift, and everyone always asks how I make it. —Jane Bray, Temple Terrace, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 125 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 98mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
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Lemon-Pepper Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
These lemon-pepper wings are perfect for game day. Try these out if you've been stuck in a chicken wing rut. Add grated lemon zest to the butter mixture if you want a more pronounced lemon flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 103 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 92mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
Before you move ahead also try these chicken wing sauce recipes that are simply irresistible!
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Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
If you like quick and easy recipes that are spicy, you'll love this Instant-Pot Buffalo chicken dip. It has that real Buffalo wing taste—and it's super cheesy! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup dip: 173 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 502mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
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Puppy Chow
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy puppy chow recipe uses a whole package of cereal, so there's less messy measuring. And it makes enough to feed a hungry crowd. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 229 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 146mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
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Mini Cheese Balls
From the Recipe Creator:
These mini cheese balls are the perfect quick appetizer for any party. Roll them in toasted sesame seeds, fresh rosemary and/or paprika to add even more flavor. —J. Spivey, Ennice, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cheese ball: 47 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 61mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Pizza on a Stick
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter and her friends had fun turning sausage, pepperoni, veggies and pizza dough into these cute kabobs. Give our version a try or make your own using you favorite light pizza toppings. —Charlene Woods, Norfolk, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
2 kabobs with 1/4 cup sauce: 429 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 1337mg sodium, 52g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein.
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Chocolate Chip Blondies
From the Recipe Creator:
Folks who adore the classic cookies will enjoy that same beloved flavor in these chocolate chip bars. This blondie recipe can be mixed up in a jiffy, tastes wonderful, and is perfect for occasions when company drops by unexpectedly or you need a treat in a hurry. —Rhonda Knight, Hecker, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 blondie: 102 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Chili Queso Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve had this recipe for more than 42 years and have updated it from time to time. This is an easy party favorite, and everyone loves the taquito dippers. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup dip: 147 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 473mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
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Game-Night Nacho Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
Some like it hot with jalapenos; others like it cool with a dollop of sour cream. But one thing’s for sure: This is “nacho” ordinary pizza night. —Jamie Jones, Madison, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 370 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 1103mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
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Really Good Snack Mix
From the Recipe Creator:
I grew tired of my family picking through a snack mix for their favorite ingredients and leaving the rest. So I experimented using only their most-loved mix-ins and came up with this recipe. Now there's never any left! —Lori Genske, Waldo, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 180 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 269mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 starch.
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Deep-Fried Candy Bars on a Stick
From the Recipe Creator:
Why wait in line at the state fair for deep-fried candy bars when you can satisfy your curious taste buds in your very own home? Be sure to make a lot—these novelties go fast! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 fried candy bar (calculated without confectioners' sugar): 136 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
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Turkey Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
Need an awesome snack for game day? My kids love these easy four-ingredient turkey pinwheels. Go ahead and make them the day before—they won’t get soggy! —Amy Van Hemert, Ottumwa, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 51 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
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Bacon Beer Cheese Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
My tangy, smoky dip won the top prize in our office party recipe contest. Other beers can work for this, but be sure to steer clear of dark varieties. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 213 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids go crazy for this gooey dessert pizza, although adults snap it up too. Everyone loves the chewy crust and the amazingly delicious combination of chocolate and peanut butter. —Bernice Arnett, Marshfield, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 220 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 42mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
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Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce Meatballs
From the Recipe Creator:
The secret ingredient in this sassy sauce is the grape jelly. It's a sweet contrast with the chili sauce. —Irma Schnuelle, Manitowoc, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball: 106 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 313mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
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Ginger Creme Sandwich Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
With a lemony filling, these spiced cookies go over big because they have old-fashioned, comfort-food appeal. Your party guests will snatch them up! —Carol Walston, Granbury, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich cookie: 184 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 154mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Ground Beef and Pepperoni Stromboli
From the Recipe Creator:
I've made this delicious Stromboli many times. It is perfect when friends and family get together on game day and always satisfies big appetites. —Shelley Banzhaf, Maywood, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 268 calories, 17g fat (6g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 467mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 14g protein.
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Mini Corn Dogs
From the Recipe Creator:
Fun-sized corn dogs add a little 'wow' factor to any cookout or get-together. Kids and adults equally love them, so expect them to disappear fast. —Deb Perry, Bluffton, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini corn dog: 68 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Candy Bar Brownies
From the Recipe Creator:
The two kinds of candy bars baked into these brownies make them an extra-special treat. —Sharon Evans, Clear Lake, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 brownie: 121 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 73mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Ice Cream Cone Treats
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe as a way for my grandkids to enjoy Rice Krispies treats without getting sticky hands. You can also pack the cereal mixture into paper cups and insert a wooden pop stick to create pops. —Mabel Nolan, Vancouver, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 174 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 142mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Havarti Turkey Hero
From the Recipe Creator:
This is not your ordinary sandwich! Everyone loves the combination of chutney and chopped peanuts. I like to make this when I have company in the afternoon or at night after a game of cards. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 302 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 973mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
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Pinwheels and Checkerboards
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom used to make these cookies every Christmas, and I still love them. They are so colorful...and you can get two kinds of cookies from one dough! They're perfect for including in gift boxes.—Jill Heatwole, Pittsville, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 45 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 43mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
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Mini Hot Browns
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's my take on the famous Hot Brown sandwich. Guests quickly saddle up for juicy turkey slices and crispy bacon piled on toasted rye bread and then topped with a rich cheese sauce. —Annette Grahl, Midway, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 98 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 246mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
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Layered Chocolate Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me the recipe for these layered brownies, but I added my own touch--chunky peanut butter. Every time I take these to a group gathering, I get requests for the recipe. It's a real crowd-pleaser! —Judy Sims, Weatherford, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 brownie: 189 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
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Snickers Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy, sweet salad with crisp apple crunch is a real people-pleaser. It makes a lot, which is good, because it will go fast! —Cyndi Fynaardt, Oskaloosa, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 218 calories, 9g fat (6g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 174mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
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Pot of S’mores
From the Recipe Creator:
Mom’s easy Dutch oven version of the popular campout treat is so good and gooey. The hardest part is waiting for this to cool so you can devour it. Yum! —June Dress, Meridian, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 584 calories, 28g fat (17g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 326mg sodium, 83g carbohydrate (47g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
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Roasted Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
Our family's all-time favorite salsa, this recipe is the reason we grow a huge garden every summer. We make gallons of it and share with our neighbors. You might find yourself eating it right out of the bowl with a spoon. —Donna Kelly, Orem, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 27 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 155mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
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Chicken Nachos
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken nachos recipe is delicious and so simple. Rotisserie (or leftover) chicken keeps it quick, and the seasonings and splash of lime juice lend fantastic flavor. My husband enjoys this snack so much that he often requests it for dinner! —Gail Cawsey, Geneseo, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 221 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 314mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 12g protein.
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Shortbread Cookie
From the Recipe Creator:
With only a few ingredients, these butter shortbread cookies are so simple to prepare. —Pattie Prescott, Manchester, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 183 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
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Ghost Shortbread Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Pac-Man was my favorite video game when I was growing up. For a party, I decided to get creative and shape my go-to sugar cookies into the ghosts from the game. —Jamie S, Regina, Saskatchewan
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Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
My buffalo chicken quesadillas are filling enough to serve as a meal and versatile enough to win big points as a snack for game night. Feel free to sub in your favorite flavored tortillas. Or kick up the spice factor with pepper jack cheese instead of the Mexican blend. —Crystal Schlueter, Babbitt, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 quesadilla: 773 calories, 43g fat (22g saturated fat), 152mg cholesterol, 2354mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 7g fiber), 44g protein.
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Walking Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
These Walking Tacos are perfect for an on-the-go dinner, a campfire meal or an easy game-night supper. The ingredients go right into the chip bags! —Beverly Matthews, Richland, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without toppings): 530 calories, 28g fat (6g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 1017mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 24g protein.
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Candy Bar Cheesecake Brownies
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with these brownies as a way to use up my son's leftover Halloween candy. You can tint the cream cheese orange for a spooky touch. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grv, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 brownie: 282 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 233mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
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Ground Beef Taco Dip
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.
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Blue Cheese Potato Chips
From the Recipe Creator:
Game day calls for something bold. I top potato chips with tomatoes, bacon and tangy blue cheese. I make two big pans, and they always disappear. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 215 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 359mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
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Mustard Pretzel Nuggets
From the Recipe Creator:
This quick and fun snack is similar to the mustard pretzels you can buy at the store, but you can make it for a fraction of the price. It's a killer recipe for all kinds of parties and football gatherings. —Sarah Mathews, Ava Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 204 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 411mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
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Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
One of my favorite slow-cooker recipes is this impressive buffalo chicken egg rolls appetizer. You can wrap the filling in egg roll wrappers and bake, or, for a bite-size version, use smaller wonton wraps. —Tara Odegaard, Omaha, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 egg roll: 174 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 716mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
Game Night Snacks FAQ
How do I make game night snacks kid-friendly?
For kid-friendly game night snacks, start with familiar flavors, fun shapes and bite-sized portions that are easy to grab and eat. Mini grilled cheese sandwiches, fruit kabobs and soft pretzel bites are all hits with kids. Other easy options like peanut butter crackers, veggie cups and string cheese skewers double as healthy snacks for kids with playful textures and familiar ingredients. You can also set up a build-your-own station with stackable sliders or mix-and-match snack boards to keep things fun and interactive.
What are some healthy snack options for game night?
Healthy game night snacks don’t have to be boring. Look for options built around fresh vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Baked zucchini chips, hummus with crisp veggies and turkey or chicken skewers are lighter bites that still feel satisfying. Whole grain quesadillas filled with beans or a bowl of air-popped popcorn are easy to nibble and satisfy those salty, crunchy cravings. Many of these healthy snack options can be prepped ahead so they’re ready to serve when the game begins.
Can game night snacks be made ahead of time?
Yes, plenty of game night snacks can be prepped ahead and either chilled, frozen or reheated just before serving. Cold dips, trail mix and snack boards are easy to assemble a few hours early, while baked pinwheels, cheesy pull-apart bread or savory pastries can be stored in the fridge and baked off just before guests arrive. Make-ahead appetizers like hand pies or stuffed rolls can be frozen, so you’re ready for the next round without starting from scratch.
