11 Super Bowl recipes for when you care more about food than football

As Super Bowl weekend quickly approaches, we’re left clamoring to the kitchen to tackle the daunting task of what to cook. Because let’s face it, even if we’re rooting for the New England Patriots or the Atlanta Falcons, the real winner of Super Bowl LI is already the food. Regardless of all the questions we have about halftime or the game, the only question we’ll have about the food is when it will be ready and how soon we can devour it. Whether you’re looking for an easy crockpot recipe for your Super Bowl party, or are feeling more adventurous, these 11 recipes will  have your stomach singing.

And, if you’re vegan, vegetarian, or have other dietary restrictions, not to fret! Many of these dishes are easily adaptable for the pickiest eater at your party. So whether you’re subbing carnita for a meatless option or cheese for vegan cheese, no stress involved. But be warned- some of these dishes may take center stage over football. After all, some of us are just here for the commercials and food.

1 Guacamole

Would it really be a Super Bowl party without some delicious guacamole?  No, it wouldn’t be. And this simple guacamole with jalapeños, cilantro and of course, avocado, is sure to be a hit. Simply mash the avocados, add in everything else and you’re done. Serve with some fresh tortilla chips and this dish will speak for itself.

2 Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

Let’s face it, nothing screams Super Bowl like chicken wings. But this year, try taking your wing game to a new level. This recipe uses a few simple ingredients, namely honey and garlic, to elevate the flavors of this classic dish. And with wings this rich, we’re sure they’ll fly off the plate.

3Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Freezer Fudge Cups

You can’t satisfy everyone, but you can at least try with these frozen chocolate peanut butter cups. These deserts feature the trifecta of flavors- chocolate, vanilla and peanut butter. Whether you plan on garnishing with peanuts or sea salt, there’s really no way to go wrong. But be advised, these babies melt. So make sure they’re eaten fast, we doubt that will be a problem.

4Salt and Pepper Plantain Chips

So plantain chips may not be the first thing you’d think to serve your guests, but what’s a party without a surprise or two? This recipe is so simple it seems like a joke, but we promise it’s not! Whether you’re serving these seasoned plantain chips with hummus or kefta kebabs, they’re sure to add some color and unexpected flavor to you halftime spread.

5Cheesy Black Bean and Pork Carnitas Quesadillas

This recipe is not for the faint of heart. In fact, these cheesy quesadillas  are sure to make any foodie weak at the knees. These slow cooker quesadillas take over 8 hours to cook, meaning that they probably taste unreal. With fresh salsa and Queso Oaxaca included in the recipe, this authentic take on Mexican food is sure to be a people pleaser.

6Spinach Artichoke Hummus

If there’s one appetizer that pleases anyone, it’s hummus. This spinach artichoke hummus feels like the elegant older sister of the hummus we know and love. With artichoke, tahini and cayenne pepper, this dip is intriguing but still inviting. The best part? You don’t even have to feel bad for not making any artichoke dip! Because really, has anyone ever been upset about hummus?

7Vegan Beer & Cheese Bread Bowl Dip

Whether or not you’re vegan, there’s no way you won’t want to eat this beer and cheese dip. Because honestly, when does beer, cheese and bread not sound appealing? Although this recipe is more involved than others, if there’s a time to partake in glutenous vegan beer cheese meals, it’s at a Super Bowl party. Just don’t forget to share.

8Game Day Sheet Pan Nachos Two Ways

Because the only thing better than nachos is nachos two ways. So whether you’re in the mood for mango chicken nachos or butternut squash nachos with cilantro, there’s really no way to lose. Simply add the ingredients over tortilla chips, bake, garnish and serve. If you’re feeling indecisive, not to worry- no one said you can’t make both.

9Peanut Butter Blossom Cookie Bars

No explanation is necessary for why these peanut butter cookie bars  should be at your Super Bowl party. Filled with delicious peanut butter and vanilla, this recipe is rich but also deceptively simple. And topped off with a Hershey’s Kiss, it’s sure to leave a sweet and lasting impression on your guests.

10Peppered Pork Sliders with Honey Mustard Sauce

Move over hamburgers, there’s a new star in town. These peppered pork sliders only take five minutes to prepare, and their small size is a perfect alternative to a classic burger. Served with honey mustard sauce and a pretzel buns, this fun twist on a game time classic is sure to be a hit.

11 Brownie Marshmallow Cookies

If whoopie pies were your thing growing up,  get ready to drool over these brownie marshmallow cookies.   The best part? You’ll have plenty of fresh marshmallow filling leftover to enjoy as marshmallow pops (or plain, we won’t judge.) So whether you’re looking to indulge in nostalgia or surprise your guests, these cookies will help you be the host with the most.