Tailgating recipes

Prep at home the night before: form patties, thread skewers, mix dips and pack everything in labeled containers in the order you will cook it. Bring one hot dish, one or two cold dishes and finger food, and plan to start cooking about two hours before kickoff so food is done in time to pack up.

Common questions

What should I bring to a tailgate?

Bring a portable grill with fuel, a cooler for food and a separate one for drinks, tongs, a meat thermometer, foil, paper towels, plates, napkins, trash bags and hand sanitizer or wipes. Folding chairs and a small table help, as do a pop-up canopy and sunscreen. Check your stadium's rules on grills, open flames and canopies before you go.

How early should you get to a tailgate?

Many tailgaters arrive three to four hours before kickoff to get a good spot, set up and cook without rushing. Lot opening times vary by stadium, so check before you leave. With quick recipes, two hours is enough time to grill and eat, as long as most of the prep is already done at home.

How do you keep food safe at a tailgate?

Keep cold food in a cooler at 40F or below and pack raw meat separately from ready-to-eat food. Don't leave perishable food out for more than 2 hours, or more than 1 hour when it is above 90F. Use clean plates and utensils for cooked meat, and cook burgers to 160F and chicken to 165F.

How do you get rid of charcoal at a tailgate?

Never dump hot coals on the pavement or grass or put them in a regular trash can. Many stadiums have marked hot coal bins in the lots, so look for those first. Otherwise, close the grill's vents and lid to smother the coals, let them cool completely, or soak them with water before bagging them, following venue rules.