Each year as I sit down to plan my Super Bowl Party menu, I like to choose a few traditional football party snacks (read: hearty finger food), as well as a number of dishes that showcase flavors from the hometowns of the competing teams. This year won't be any different. There are some dishes that I believe should be at every Super Bowl Party. I'll also mix in recipes that give a taste of New Orleans, the home of the Saints, and the midwestern flavors of the Indianapolis Colts, which are perfect for this bash.
Super Bowl XLIV Party Menu
Cocktails for the Colts and Saints - About.com Guide to Cocktails, Colleen Graham, has a colorful selection of specially designed cocktails for this party.
Spicy Vegetarian Bean Dip - The Tabasco in this recipe brings the spiciness of Louisiana cuisine to your Super Bowl party.
Ground Beef Nachos - Build the Indianapolis taste for beef into your menu with these hearty party nachos.
Quick 7 Layer Dip - This popular party appetizer can help your conscience (and diet) feel a little better since you can scoop veggies on a chip.
Shrimp Boil - For shrimp lovers, few dishes are as much fun as a big bowl of peel-and-eat shrimp. Use this southern shrimp boil seasoning to give it that southern flavor.
Chicken Wings - I can't think of too many football parties that I've attended without some kind of wings on the buffet. About.com Guide to American Food, John Mitzewich gives us 7 different recipes from which to choose.
Chili Pork Stew - Chili makes a regular appearance at Super Bowl parties. By combining a pork chili with andouille or chorizo sausage, this dish becomes a salute to the Saints.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches - Breaded and fried pork tenderloin sandwiches are a favorite at midwestern tailgating parties. Make them healthier, but no less flavorful, by grilling the pork. Serve them on mini buns to turn them into one handed sliders for your party.
New Orleans Pralines - One of New Orleans favorite sweets is also a perfect dessert for your Super Bowl Party!
Ultimate Chocolate Brownies - Rich chocolate brownies are a universal favorite, and the fact that they can be eaten out of hand makes them perfect for a Super Bowl bash.
Beer - No matter which team you'll be cheering on, beer fits into your menu. Follow these beer selection guidelines from About.com Guide to Beer, Bryce Eddings.
Wine Pairings for Your Super Bowl Party - Some of your guests, despite the occasion, will choose to drink wine over beer. Stacy Slinkard, About.com Guide to Wine, can help you select the best wines to go with "pub grub."
