We’re all pretending we’re excited about the Super Bowl LVIII showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, but let’s be honest: We’re really just looking forward to the food and Usher’s halftime show performance of course. Whether you prefer an actual meal or a buffet of appetizers, there’s no wrong way to indulge on Super Bowl Sunday. To help you prepare your menu, here are some of The Root staff’s favorite game day snacks.
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Pizza
It may not be super exciting or fresh, but you can’t go wrong with pizza. Whether you make it yourself or order it from your favorite spot, it’s an easy party choice. Just be sure to get your order in early because Super Bowl day is one of the busiest days of the year for pizza places.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Some people have their own special recipe, while others prefer to buy their favorite pre-made brand and heat it up at home. It doesn’t really matter which you go for, everyone loves spinach artichoke dip. If you’re at the party, grab some early, because it’s always first come, first served with this one. It runs out fast.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
When done right, buffalo chicken dip is a fantastic flavor bomb. Be careful though, there are a lot of unsuccessful attempts out there. The dip can sometimes be too spicy or suffer from a serious lack of seasoning.
Wings
BBQ, buffalo, lemon pepper, garlic parmesan, the choices are endless. If you give your guests a variety of wings, with an amazing selection of dips, your party will be a guaranteed hit.
Fried Chicken Strips
To clarify, we’re actually down with anything fried. However, chicken strips, much like wings, offer an opportunity to personalize your meal with the sauces of your choice.
Meatballs
What makes meatballs such an easy party choice is that you can put them in the slow cooker in the morning and just let them simmer until kickoff. If you’re already doing wings, we suggest a classic marinara to add some variety to your menu.
Sliders
When you say sliders, burgers are generally everyone’s first choice. But you don’t have to stick with burgers. If want to get creative, go with pulled pork, fried chicen, or even mini cheesesteaks.
Egg Rolls
Whether they’re chicken, vegetable or pork, egg rolls are always a party favorite. Plus, they provide easy cooking and clean up for the host. Egg rolls are a first-round draft pick.
BBQ Ribs
If you want to up the difficulty level and impress your friends, BBQ ribs are a solid party choice. Put these in your oven or smoker early in the morning, and they’ll be deliciously tender by game time.
Nachos
Many of the snacks we’ve already discussed can easily be used with a nacho bar. Set up all the toppings and let your friends go wild. Be sure to throw in a few surprise choices to keep them on their toes.
Deviled Eggs
Black people cannot have a party without deviled eggs. Pro tip: Don’t get too crazy with the recipe. The only acceptable add-ons are bacon, shrimp or salmon. Also, don’t put relish in the filling, it’s not a pleasing flavor.
Chili
While we’ve stuck to finger foods for our picks, chili is great on its own, or as an accompaniment to your other snacks. Use it on your sliders or meatballs. Or lay out a cool chili bar with sour cream, dips, cheese, tortilla chips and other toppings. Just make sure you’re guests know if they spill, they are officially banned from all future parties.
Beer, Wine, Cocktails
It’s Super Bowl Sunday, so we assume the drinks will be flowing. However, make sure you have a nice variety of choices, so everyone feels comfortable. This includes non-alcholic options that aren’t soda. Interesting mocktails show that you’re going above and beyond your usual gatherings.
Cupcakes
When the second half of the game kicks off, you need to start rolling out some desserts. If you want to stick with finger foods, but want something more substantial than cookies, cupcakes are a nice option. Bake or buy multiple flavors, and you’ll be a hero.
Brownies
If cupcakes are too much, brownies are also an amazing dessert choice. Plus, you can make these ahead of time, just add powdered sugar and look like a pro.
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