Grilling snacks for the big game on the WG is a fun way to elevate your tailgate or game-day menu. Here are some delicious and crowd-pleasing options for your outdoor grill:
1. Classic Grilled Wings
- Preparation: Marinate chicken wings in your favorite sauce (buffalo, barbecue, garlic parmesan, or teriyaki) for at least 2 hours.
- Grill: Cook on medium heat, flipping occasionally, until crispy and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
- Serve: Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.
2. Grilled Sliders
- Preparation: Shape mini beef, turkey, or plant-based patties. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Grill: Cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Serve: Place on slider buns with toppings like cheese, pickles, and grilled onions.
3. Kabobs
- Ingredients: Use bite-sized chunks of chicken, steak, shrimp, or tofu, along with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes.
- Grill: Thread onto skewers, brush with olive oil and seasoning, and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning often.
- Serve: Offer dipping sauces like chimichurri or teriyaki.
4. Grilled Nachos
- Preparation: Layer tortilla chips on a grill-safe tray with shredded cheese, jalapeños, and pre-cooked protein (e.g., pulled pork or chicken).
- Grill: Place the tray on indirect heat, close the lid, and cook until the cheese melts.
- Serve: Add toppings like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
5. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
- Preparation: Halve jalapeños, remove seeds, and stuff with cream cheese or shredded cheddar. Wrap with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Grill: Cook on medium heat until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
- Serve: Enjoy as-is or with a spicy dipping sauce.
6. Grilled Sausage Bites
- Preparation: Slice sausages (e.g., bratwurst, chorizo, or kielbasa) into bite-sized pieces.
- Grill: Cook directly on the grates or skewer for easier handling.
- Serve: Provide toothpicks and a selection of dipping sauces, such as mustard, barbecue, or honey sriracha.
7. Grilled Pizza Bites
- Preparation: Use mini naan bread or split English muffins as a base. Add pizza sauce, mozzarella, and toppings like pepperoni or veggies.
- Grill: Place on the grill over medium heat until the cheese melts and the crust is crispy.
- Serve: Slice into quarters for easy snacking.
8. Grilled Corn Ribs
- Preparation: Cut corn cobs into quarters lengthwise, and season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Grill: Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until lightly charred.
- Serve: Add grated cheese or lime juice for extra flavor.
9. Grilled Potato Skins
- Preparation: Scoop out halved baked potatoes, leaving a thin layer of potato. Fill with cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions.
- Grill: Cook until the cheese melts and skins are crispy.
- Serve: Pair with sour cream or ranch.
10. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Preparation: Marinate shrimp in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Grill: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque.
- Serve: Provide cocktail sauce or a tangy aioli.
Pro Tips:
- Use a grill-safe tray or aluminum foil for smaller items to prevent them from falling through the grates.
- Prepare and partially cook items indoors to minimize grilling time during the event.
- Keep a variety of sauces and dips for guests to customize their flavors.
These finger foods are perfect for a football crowd and will make your outdoor grill the MVP of the gathering! 🏈