Throwing a football party? Serve the right foods to keep your guests happy.
Finger foods are the preferred food options for a football game viewing party. They allow the guests to eat while watching the game, without the need for a fork and knife -- or even much attention. Party foods should include both savory and sweet options to satisfy all cravings. Knowing a few food options gives you a starting point to develop your own party menu.
Dips and Salsas
Store-bought chips paired with either store-bought or homemade dips or salsa are a classic party treat. A simple option for homemade dip is onion dip. To make this dip, mix together sour cream and dried French onion soup mix. Make salsa with fresh tomatoes, onions and cilantro. For another homemade addition, make your own chips.
Pigs in Blankets
Another traditional finger food is pigs in blankets. Traditionally, you make them by wrapping hot dogs in a crescent roll. Play with the classic by wrapping different meats in different breadings. For example, use a Vienna sausage or chicken strip wrapped in puff pastry. Add cheese or other condiments to the "blankets" before wrapping them. For a sweet version, wrap a piece of candied bacon in pie dough, and top it with maple syrup or chocolate syrup.
Football Sweets
Create a cake in the shape of a football using football shaped cake pan. Or bake cupcakes and place them on a tray in a football-shape pattern, then frost them to resemble a football. A third option is to make a sheet cake and frost it with green frosting to make football field, and place football player figurines onto the cake.
Team Themed Foods
When planning a party around a certain game, consider the teams when planning your menu for a fun, themed option. Think about the regional cuisine of the area and plan snacks off of that. For example, if the Saints are planning, think about a gumbo. Or if the Bears are playing, think about a deep-dish, Chicago-style pizza. Or you can use the colors of the team to choose foods. For Greenbay, make fried green beans and a beer cheese dip.
Potluck
Menu planning for your guests gets expensive and time consuming. If you do not have the time or funds to provide a full array of foods for the guests to munch on, consider a potluck. Ask your guests to each bring their own favorite party food. This provides you with a variety of foods and ensures each guest has at least one food option he enjoys.
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