Game day in the South is all about great food, family, and friends. If you’re looking to elevate your game day experience, these three recipes are sure to be crowd favorites.
1. Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a game day classic that’s both filling and full of flavor, making it the perfect dish to start your game day. To make this creamy dip, you’ll need shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot), and shredded cheddar cheese. Combine all the ingredients in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles on top. Serve with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for dipping. This dip is quick to prepare and sure to disappear fast once it hits the table.
2. Smoked Sausage Sliders
Sliders are ideal for game day—they’re easy to eat, packable, and full of flavor. Smoked sausage sliders bring the smoky, savory flavor to the table. Grill smoked sausages until they develop a nice char, then slice and place them in soft slider buns. Top with a creamy Southern-style coleslaw made with cabbage, mayonnaise, and a touch of vinegar. Add a dab of BBQ sauce or spicy mustard for extra flavor. These mini sandwiches are great for feeding a crowd, and the smoky sausage paired with the cool slaw is a great combination for game day.
3. Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a staple of any Southern gathering, and there’s no better way to keep the crowd happy than with buttermilk fried chicken. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the meat while giving it a tangy flavor. After marinating, coat the chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mixture—think salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Fry until crispy and golden brown. You can serve it hot or at room temperature, making it perfectly portable. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces and sides like biscuits or potato salad.
Cover Photo by Spencer Davis
