(BPT) - Nothing beats gathering with friends to cheer on your favorite team — the energy, the camaraderie, those hard-won victories — and of course, share all that great food. With a little prep work, a solid game plan and simple crowd-pleasing dishes that are easy to serve and share, you can be the MVP of the game-day get-together.
Here are several tips to make the game-day celebration easier, more fun and tastier, too.
Make room for more guests
Ahead of game day, gather extra seating as needed and arrange it so all your guests will have a good view of the game. Clear out clutter and move any extra furniture that might get in the way, like side tables or other items so there's space to move around. Too many decorative pillows crowding your sofa? Store the extras in a closet to give everyone room to huddle together at kickoff.
Get everyone in the spirit by decking out the buffet table and viewing room in your team's colors with themed banners, tablecloths and napkins. Encourage guests to wear their favorite team jerseys, even if they're rooting for the opposition. You can also add small touches like themed coasters or drink stirrers to give the space a festive, game-day feel.
Make sure guests can grab a drink without missing the action by setting up a self-serve station. Offer a mix of options — from beer or cocktails to sparkling water, soda and mocktails — and add fun touches like citrus slices and colorful garnishes. Keep cups and ice nearby so refills are effortless and everyone can enjoy their favorite beverages throughout the day.
Please crowds with easy sides and appetizers
Keep game day stress-free by choosing appetizers and sides that are quick to prepare. Opt for easy favorites that guests can grab and enjoy — think sliders, wings or a variety of chips and dips. Simple dishes like these let you focus on hosting while keeping the energy high and guests satisfied.
Did you know bacon is the fifth most added item to macaroni and cheese? For a ready-made crowd-pleaser, try Bob Evans Bacon Macaroni & Cheese. Microwave ready in five minutes, this creamy dish offers an indulgent blend of real cheese and bacon with a rich, savory hickory-smoked flavor and just the right touch of black pepper seasoning.
Take your appetizers up a notch with these Barbecue Pork Macaroni & Cheese Bites. These handheld bites combine cheesy and smokey Bacon Macaroni & Cheese with spicy barbecue pork for a flavorful twist that's easy to prepare and ideal for sharing.
Prep time: 15 minutes; Cook time: 20 minutes; Servings: 12
- 20 ounces Bob Evans Bacon Macaroni & Cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup spicy barbecue sauce
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 1/2 cups shredded barbecue pork
- 1 cup hamburger dill pickle chips
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine macaroni & cheese, cream cheese and barbecue sauce, stirring until blended.
2. Add breadcrumbs and beaten eggs, stirring until blended. Spoon mixture into wells of a lightly greased (24-cup) miniature muffin pan.
3. Bake 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, heat pork in microwave if desired.
5. Top macaroni & cheese bites with shredded pork and pickles. Drizzle with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
Find this new flavor of macaroni and cheese to elevate your homegate spread, plus more game-day recipe inspiration at BobEvansGrocery.com.
