By Lauren Durden
The Daily Meal
When summer comes to a close and the fall weather slowly creeps in, football season is just around the corner. Whether this is your first time at the tailgate rodeo or you're a seasoned veteran, there are some classic tailgating recipes you need to master before the first kickoff.
Tailgates are where the football parties get started. They’re where you meet friends, get revved up for the game, and fuel up on food (and -- within reason, we hope -- drink) before you hit the stadium, where that tray of nachos and a couple of beers will cost you a fortune. You’ll be prepared for your first tailgate of the season with these classic recipes in your playbook.
Tailgating recipes can vary by region, but wings and burgers are sure to be a touchdown with your guests. Easy-to-prep slow-cooker favorites and dips mean you don’t have to stand over the grill the whole time. Review the play-by-play of each recipe below to be the MVP of the parking-lot tailgate this fall.
Classic Tailgate Foods
Artichoke Spinach Dip
Fall brings cooler weather, meaning this warm dip will be welcomed at your tailgate.
Artichoke Spinach Dip
It's a classic that works well not only for your tailgate, but for any upcoming get-togethers of the season. Click here for the Artichoke Spinach Dip recipe
BBQ Wings
Barbecue wings are the perfect choice for those who like their wings with a little more sweet and a little less heat than Buffalo wings provide.
Best Burgers
You can't have a tailgate without a classic burger.
Best Burgers
Forgo the frozen options and batch these out the night before your tailgate for more flavor (and fewer preservatives). Click here for the Classic Hamburger recipe.
Boiled Peanuts
Boiled peanuts hail from the South, where college ball is king.
Boiled Peanuts
Pair the salty snack with a cold beer for maximum tailgate potential. Click here for the Boiled Peanuts recipe.
Bratwurst
What's a tailgate without some brats?
Bratwurst
While Cheddar brats are an easy buy at the store, making these homemade sausages will earn you major tailgate-chef cred with the other grillmasters at the game. Click here for the Homemade Pork and Veal Bratwurst recipe.
Crock Pot Chili
Crock Pot Chili is a crowd pleaser, and easy to set and let cook while you're enjoying the tailgate with your buddies.
Crock Pot Chili
Top with chopped onions, Cheddar cheese, or sour cream for an extra kick. Click here for the Crock Pot Chili recipe.
Guacamole
You can almost guarantee that any bowl of guac you bring to a tailgate will leave empty.
Guacamole
The pros at Chipotle know a thing or two about the perfect guac, so why not recreate their recipe? Extra chips, please. Click here for the Guacamole recipe.
Jalapeno Poppers
Jalapeno poppers are a spicy, creamy snack that's sure to please your tailgate guests.
Jalapeno Poppers
Add a little bacon and you have a recipe you'll be making throughout the entire football season. Click here for the Bacon Jalapeño Poppers recipe.
Potato Skins
Toss around the old pigskin with one of these potato skins in hand.
Sausage and Peppers
Pump up your brats with this heartier dish of sausage and peppers.
Sausage and Peppers
The sweet and smoky Italian sausage can stand alone as a dish when paired with crisp and sweet bell peppers, but if you want a little carb action, spoon them into a baguette or bun for a handheld meal. Click here for the Sausage and Pepper recipe.
For the complete list of the 15 Classic Tailgate Foods go to TheDailyMeal.com.
More From The Daily Meal:
-- Healthy Alternatives to Your Favorite Stadium Food
-- The 8 Healthiest Beers to Pack in Your Tailgate Cooler
-- Healthiest Foods to Bring to a Tailgate
-- 10 Myths About Your Favorite Sports Drinks
