Recipes To Kickoff Football Time In Tennessee
Football season officially begins this month, and what better way to celebrate than by tailgating with friends and family? We know that finding easy and delicious recipes for your tailgating parties can sometimes be a challenge. Below you’ll find three mouthwatering treats that are perfect for your next tailgating event: Beer Cheese Dip, Bourbon Meatballs, and Tequila Chicken Bites. Let’s dive in!
Beer Cheese Dip
This Beer Cheese Dip is perfect for pairing with pretzels or pretzel sticks, and it’s incredibly easy to make!
Ingredients:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup beer (your favorite kind)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground mustard
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Pretzels or pretzel sticks, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, beer, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ground mustard. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve with pretzels or pretzel sticks.
Bourbon Meatballs
These flavorful Bourbon Meatballs are sure to be a hit at any tailgate party. They’re savory, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
5. In a saucepan, combine the bourbon, barbecue sauce, and honey. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add cooked meatballs to the sauce, making sure they are fully coated. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Tequila Chicken Bites
These Tequila Chicken Bites are the perfect finger food for your tailgating party. They’re packed with flavor and super easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup tequila
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the dipping sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the tequila, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder and salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with oil.
- Place the chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, make the dipping sauce by combining all of the ingredients in a small bowl. Stir to combine and set aside until ready to use.
- Serve the chicken bites hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Share with us!
We hope you enjoy making these tasty tailgating treats as much as we do. Remember, cooking is more fun when you share it with others! So, after you’ve made these delicious Bourbon Meatballs and Tequila Chicken Bites, be sure to snap a photo and share your creations with us. We’d love to see them! Follow and tag us on Instagram @wineandspiritscellar. As always, we encourage you to shop for all your ingredients at The Wine and Spirits Cellar in Maryville, TN. They have a fantastic selection that will take your dishes to the next level! Happy cooking, and enjoy your tailgating parties!