Hosting A Stress-Free Game Day

Score a touchdown this football season with a winning game-day spread! If you’re hosting, follow these tips to root for your favorite team without the stress while presenting your hungry crowd with an unforgettable football feast.

Keep Appetizers Simple
Party apps should be fun and easy to eat. Start with bite-size appetizers that don’t require much preparation such as cured meats, cheeses, chips and easy-to-make dips. Try hummus, salsa and guacamole or change things up with a light and creamy Greek yogurt-feta dip.

Game-Day Drinks
No one wants to make a drink run during game time, so be sure to plan ahead. Pick up sparkling spirits and fruit juices to create a combination of refreshing beverages, or stick with your favorite traditional brews. Based on 12-ounce bottles or cans, you’ll roughly want to stock five six-packs for 10 people. Please celebrate responsibly.

Build a Football Buffet
If you’re not one for being in the kitchen on game day, try your best to prep in advance so you can enjoy the fun too! With that in mind, buffets are best, and any football buffet should include a few traditional favorites such as wings, subs, pizza or nachos. Or, consider prepping slow cooker chili earlier in the day and pair it with a spread of fresh, crunchy and cool toppings. No matter what fare your buffet features, make sure you have enough for all of your hungry fans. It’s always better to have more and send any leftovers home with guests.

Kidding Around
Young children most likely won’t be interested in sitting quietly and watching the game, so be sure to provide any kids attending with activities to keep them entertained and be ready to serve finger foods they’ll devour. Pizza, mac and cheese, hot dogs and cheese cubes are great, age-appropriate options. Consider some healthier options as well – prepackaged fruits and veggies such as baby carrots and apple slices are perfect party dippers for kids. Let them choose from healthy dips like hummus, guacamole or peanut butter.