When it comes to the big game, snacks are all well and good. But for those of us who like to eat a proper dinner at half-time, pigs-in-a-blanket might not fit the bill. If your crowd likes a well-rounded dinner-time meal, try some of these game day-ready dinners that can be prepared early so you don't miss a second of the action.
Beef Chili
Football is best friends with chili, and we love this staple comfort food for feeding a crowd. Make it a day or two ahead and reheat slowly while you enjoy the game (or commercials!). Serve with a toppings bar, including our favorite Frito-pie fixins: corn chips, shredded Cheddar, pickled jalapeños, and sour cream!
Sausage with Sweet and Sour Peppers
This recipe is a vinegary-take on the stadium classic sandwich. Make it early in the day or even the night before, and slice the sausages before reheating for easy serving. Set out with soft buns for serving. Watch this video to see how it's done!
Slow Cooker Pulled-Pork Barbecue
Made at your convenience, this is the perfect recipe for feeding hungry fans. Go classic and serve with buns and coleslaw, or prepare a build-your-own baked potato bar with pulled pork as the celebrity cameo. Cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and tangy pickled onions are the perfect toppers.
Reuben Sandwiches
Reubens are one of our favorite hand-held meals, perfect for grab-and-go to suit guests on the move. Griddle your sandwiches before your company arrives, then pop them in the oven to heat through before serving. Sandwiches are easy to customize for friends with special diets, too, so set aside variations to suit your friends who don't eat cheese or prefer gluten-free bread.
Ham Bone and Collard Green Soup
Soup is the ultimate make-ahead dinner for a cold night with friends, and this one is as warm and cozy as it gets. With savory ham and tender greens, we love this soup served piping hot with crusty bread or corn bread for dipping into the flavorful broth, or served over hot steamed rice.
