9 Irresistible Appetizers for Game Days and Tailgate Parties

Pimiento Cheese Pretzel Bites

Spirited chants and cheers fill the air as beloved team colors are on display at every turn—football season has arrived! Fall weekends call for tailgating on game days, complete with easy-to-serve snacks to keep a crowd satisfied no matter the score. Browse our nine irresistible appetizers below.


1. Andouille Sausage and Apple Bites with Creamy Mustard Sauce

Andouille Sausage and Apple Bites with Creamy Mustard Sauce

Crisp apple slices pair perfectly with smoky sausage, while a dipping sauce of mustard, hot sauce, and apricot preserves adds zip to every bite.

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2. Turnip Green and Bacon Dip with Pull-Apart Bread

Turnip Green and Bacon Dip with Pull-Apart BreadA mouthwatering combo of bread, cheese, bacon, and turnip greens, this dip shared by our sister magazine Southern Cast Iron is a favorite for fall get-togethers.

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3. Pimiento Cheese Pretzel Bites

Pimiento Cheese Pretzel Bites

Balancing the chopped jalapeño and salty pretzels, honey-roasted peanuts lend a hint of sweetness to these tasty nibbles.

Blue and white graphic that reads "View Recipe"4. Lamb Meatballs with Honey Basil Pesto

Lamb Meatballs with Honey Basil Pesto on a white plate

Bright, zesty pesto elevates our meatballs brimming with olives, feta cheese, and plenty of fresh herbs.

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5. Pickled Mushrooms

Easy Pickled Mushrooms in a ceramic bowl

Make a batch of these pickled portobello mushrooms the day before your party for a fuss-free accompaniment to any spread.

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6. Jalapeño Cilantro Hummus with Cheese Crisps

Cilantro Hummus and crackers on a wooden board

Seeded crackers boasting a blend of Asiago and Gruyère cheese complement our twist on classic hummus.

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7. Baked Eggplant Fries

Jazz Brunch Baked Eggplant Fries

Serve these veggie fries baked in Italian seasoning and Parmesan with a versatile and creamy Rèmoulade Sauce.

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8. Kabocha Squash Crostini

Kabocha Squash Crostini on a platter

Topped with dried cranberries, a spread of squash and goat cheese on toasted bread is ideal for any autumn occasion.

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9. Bacon, Herb & Cheese Pinwheels

Bacon, Herb & Cheese Pinwheels on a white tray

Try these pinwheels packed with Cheddar, bacon, and roasted red peppers for an effortless tailgating snack.

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What are your go-to recipes for game day? Share your photos with us on social media by tagging @southernladymag.


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