1. Ribs
They may take a while to cook, but there is nothing better at a tailgate then some delicious ribs. No matter how you season them, some tender grilled ribs are an excellent addition to any tailgate.
2. Buffalo Wings
Buffalo Wings are another tailgate favorite and is especially popular in Buffalo. Bills fans provide some of the best tailgates around, so you better believe that their signature food is a good fit for your tailgate.
3. Steak
There are few better things in life than a nice juicy steak fresh off the grill. If you’re willing to spring for a good steak for everyone at your tailgate, then do so.
4. Bratwurst
Bratwursts are a tailgate favorite in the northern midwest and are among the best tailgate offerings around. They may not be fancy, but they hit the spot when tailgating.
5. Brisket
A Texas favorite, some good tender brisket is among the top echelon of grilled meats you’ll find at a tailgate and is one of the best barbecue offerings around as well.
6. Turkey
A classic on Thanksgiving day football games & also for those that are looking something different than the classic meats. We’ve seen it deep-fried and grilled, either way, it’ll taste great!
7. Philly Cheese Steak
Cheese Steak is a Philly staple and is something that everyone should try at least once. If you’re attending an Eagles game, then make sure to grab some cheese steaks for your tailgate.
8. Nachos
Nachos are an excellent pregame snack and a great thing to munch on while you throw back a few beers.
9. Burgers
Burgers are a game day classic and offer lots of customization meaning there are endless combinations for you to try.
10. Jalapeño Poppers
Another great appetizer, jalapeno poppers will offer you and your fellow tailgaters something to munch on all afternoon.
11. Chilli
Chili is a great item to keep you warm during those late fall and winter games. If you think it’s going to be a chilly one, then make sure to bring some chili along to the tailgate.
12. Breakfast
The best tailgates start at the break of dawn, so breakfast is a must. Whether it’s steak and eggs, bacon and eggs, or sausage and eggs, you can’t go wrong with a hearty breakfast at your tailgate.
13. Gumbo
Similar to chili, gumbo is an excellent warm tailgate dish. It may not keep you as warm due to it being primarily served in the South, but gumbo is still a good tailgate staple.
14. Pulled Pork Sandwich
The centerpiece of most barbecue based tailgates, pulled pork sandwich, are delicious to put it simply.
15. Grilled Corn
Grilled corn is an excellent game day side and can compliment a variety of different main courses including barbecue, burgers, and brats.
16. Hot Dog
Hot dogs are a classic and an excellent offering to have at your tailgate for people whose taste buds aren’t quite as refined. They also offer plenty of customization as well.
17. Tacos
Maybe not the first thing that comes to mind when discussing tailgating, but tacos are easy to hold and allow you to put your spin on it.
18. Pigs in Blankets
You can’t go wrong with pigs in blankets at your tailgate. You can serve a variety of different meat wrapped in biscuits or even go the breakfast route and wrap them in pancakes.
19. Kebabs
Kebabs are an easy way to prepare grilled meat and also allow people to match a variety of different meats and veggies. Additionally, they’re perfect for vegetarians as well.
20. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic tailgate side and comes in numerous varieties. No matter what your potato salad recipe it’s an excellent thing to bring to the tailgate.
21. Fried Chicken
If you’re tired of the tried and true burgers and hot dogs, then fried chicken offers a simple break from the traditional.
22. Meatball Sandwiches
A tasty meatball sandwich makes for a great tailgate food and is relatively easy to prepare. They also can be much easier to keep warm than burgers.
23. Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are one of the signature tailgate foods of Baltimore and provide a bit of local flavor that you should try when attending a Ravens or Orioles game.
24. Beer Can Chicken
Beer can chicken ubiquitous with the Cleveland Browns, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try this tailgate favorite elsewhere. Just make sure you have plenty of beer to prepare the bird and drink.
25. Baked Beans
Baked beans accompany plenty of tailgate favorites including hot dogs and barbecue well, and do a superb job of filling you up.
