15 Crowd-Pleasing Recipes for Football Season

Few things excite me more than the prospect of a lazy Sunday spent hanging out with friends and family eating football couch chow. I love cooking for a crowd, rolling out different finger foods, hearty soups and snacks throughout the day. Here are some of my go-to recipes for football season, from pork and black bean chili to sticky Chinese chicken wings and my grandmother’s tailgating pot of love (aka kielbasa and pea soup).

Buttermilk Fried Onion Rings

This is a classic Southern-style recipe for buttermilk fried onion rings, with an extra flavor boost from the fennel, paprika and hot sauce. Get the recipe >>>

Fresh Tomatillo Salsa

This fresh tomatillo salsa has a tangy, herby, citrusy flavor with an extra kick from the jalapenos and poblanos chiles. Get the recipe >>>

Foolproof Macaroni & Cheese

Of the dozens of recipes for this comfort food classic that I have in my recipe file, this one is the best. Get the recipe >>>

One-Pot Sticky Chinese Chicken Wings

I can’t get enough of the classic Chinese master sauce on these easy one-pot chicken wings. Get the recipe >>>

Firecracker Shrimp with Blue Cheese Dressing

There is no better couch chow than these firecracker shrimp. Get the recipe >>>

The Best Nachos of All Time

These nachos are built with several components, all made from scratch and delicious on their own. When served together, they will blow your mind. Get the recipe >>>

Crab Rolls with Thai Chile Sauce

The crust of these crispy crab rolls filled with moist flaked seafood, is made with—surprise!—soft, white sandwich bread. Get the recipe >>>

Grandma Zimmern’s Tailgating Pot of Love

Whether you’re at the game or at home on the couch, this one-pot meal is fantastic football food. Get the recipe >>>

New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp

Spicy, lemony, garlicky and rich, this barbecue shrimp is a real treat. Be sure to use shrimp with their heads on for this dish. That’s where all the flavor is! Get the recipe >>>

Achiote Roasted Pork with Tomato-Habanero Salsa

Serve this achiote-scented roasted pork shoulder with habanero-tomato salsa, lots of fresh corn tortillas, limes and cilantro. Get the recipe >>>

Oyster Hush Puppies with Pepper Mojo

I love to make these oyster hush puppies for a crowd at my house. There’s nothing easier than standing in my kitchen frying batches of these superb oyster treats. Get the recipe >>>

Golden Coin Chicken-and-Shrimp Skewers with Peanut Sauce

I first tasted this traditional southern Chinese recipe when I was in Guangzhou, and I was instantly hooked. Get the recipe >>>

Pork & Black Bean Chili

When I invite the guys over to watch football, I like to roast a ham or a few birds and lay out some buns and mustard, and I always serve this chili. Get the recipe >>>

The Best Baked Beans

These baked beans were one of my favorite dishes growing up. The variety of beans adds a great textural contrast; the bacon, a smoky accent; the onions, a nice crunch. Get the recipe >>>