On Feb. 11, football fans will unite over the sport’s biggest day: the Super Bowl. If you can’t be in Las Vegas to watch the San Francisco 49ers take on the Kansas City Chiefs in person, do the next best thing and host your own Super Bowl party with a spread that gives a nod to the most famous foods from the cities that will be represented.
Here are some of our favorite Super Bowl party spread ideas.
Kansas City Super Bowl Party Cooking
Any Kansas City Chiefs fan will also be a fan of a party spread containing these regional dishes.
1. Burnt Ends
An iconic delicacy of Kansas City, burnt ends can be found at various barbecue restaurants and will be a welcome addition to your party spread. Serve the juicy burnt ends with a sweet, tangy barbecue sauce, on a bun or even in a hash.
2. The Famous Cheese Slipper
This flaky pastry has its roots in Kansas City and provides endless possibilities for your party spread. Essentially a doughy baked good stuffed with various cheeses, these slippers can be topped with anything, from eggs to some of that tasty Kansas City barbecue!
3. Kansas City Style Barbeque
Regarding barbecue, consider including ribs or the popular Kansas City strip steak on your menu. The strip steak is a traditional short loin cut containing a strip of fat and some T-bone still attached for flavor. In true Kansas City style, prepare these meats with a classic dry rub consisting of brown sugar, paprika, chili, garlic, and onion powder, and serve a sweet, tangy barbecue sauce on the side.
4. Pan-fried Chicken
Pan-fried chicken has been a Kansas City staple since WWII and is an iconic dish at Stroud’s Restaurant. The chicken can be prepared in advance and served on a large tray on the buffet table.
5. Peppernut Cookies
This spicy little cookie will bring a big flavor to your Super Bowl gathering. Make it in large batches, then cover them with yellow and red frosting to match your Chief’s decor.
San Francisco Snacks for the Ultimate Super Bowl Party
You’ll score a touchdown with your party crowd, no matter what team they support, when you serve these San Francisco staples.
1. Clam Chowder in Sourdough Bread Bowls
Paying tribute to San Francisco’s sourdough bread factory and the seafood of Fisherman’s Wharf, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Leave the soup simmering in a slow cooker or on the stovetop and let guests pour their own into mini sourdough bread bowls when they’re ready to eat. Many grocery stores sell bread bowls in varying sizes (though you should call ahead to verify) or they can be ordered online.
2. Mission Burritos
An iconic dish of San Francisco’s Mission District, these over-stuffed burritos are perfect for a party spread. Create a Mission Burrito bar complete with various meat options, rice, beans, toppings, and maybe even some homemade guacamole so guests can prepare their own and free you up to watch the big game.
3. Ice Cream Sundaes
Ghirardelli fudge and Rocky Road ice cream both originated in San Francisco. Include both of these sweet treats in an ice cream sundae bar, along with other ice cream flavors and toppings, for the ultimate dessert party.
4. Garlic Fries
These famous fries from AT&T Park can be found at Gilroy’s Garlic Fries stand, and they’re easy to make for your guests at home. Prepare your fries extra crispy, then toss in a mixture of olive oil, parsley, salt, pepper, and a ton of garlic. Serve hot and fresh, just like they do at the stadium!
5. Dungeness Crab Dip
Give another nod to Fisherman’s Wharf by serving the sought-after Dungeness Crab. While crab claws are popular, they are also a mess, especially for a Super Bowl party. So steam them up and prepare a crab dip appetizer for easy serving. Pair it with crackers or veggies, and you’ll have a small starter with big flavor.
Vegas Super Bowl Party Meals
Remember the host city when planning your Super Bowl party menu! The flavors of Vegas will spice up any party spread.
1. House Dog a.k.a. Dirt Dog
Is it really a Super Bowl party without a standout hot dog? The House Dog, famously known as the Dirt Dog in Vegas, is a gourmet twist on the classic. Start with a high-quality beef hot dog, grill it to perfection, and nestle it inside a toasted, buttery brioche bun. The magic lies in the toppings: a layer of caramelized onions, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, and a drizzle of spicy mayo and ketchup. For an extra kick, add a scoop of relish or pickled jalapeños.
2. Chicken and Watermelon Waffles
Bring the soulful taste of Vegas to your table with Chicken and Watermelon Waffles, a dish that’s as unexpected as it is delicious. Start with juicy, spiced buttermilk fried chicken and pair it with freshly made waffles infused with a hint of watermelon juice for a sweet and savory contrast. Serve with a side of watermelon salsa made from diced watermelon, mint, and a hint of lime to complement the dish’s flavors.
3. Banana Cream Pie
Begin with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by layers of sliced bananas and a rich, velvety vanilla custard. Top the pie with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an added touch of indulgence. This dessert can be made in a large dish for guests to serve themselves or prepared in individual cups for a personal touch.
4. Paella
This Spanish classic is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your guests’ preferences, featuring a mix of seafood, chicken, and chorizo, all simmered with saffron-infused rice and a medley of vegetables. Serve straight from the pan to capture the communal spirit of Vegas dining, allowing guests to scoop their portion and savor the crispy, flavorful socarrat from the bottom.
