By Michelle Goth Game day is all about excitement, and that includes the food. While classic snacks like wings, nachos and chips with dip are always popular, there’s plenty of room to elevate the spread with fresh twists. This year, game day spreads are getting a makeover. Traditional favorites like chicken wings, nachos and pigs in a blanket can be enhanced with bold flavors, modern ingredients and creative presentations. These updates will transform the snack lineup, from unique dipping sauces and fresh nacho ideas to adding team spirit to a charcuterie board. Read on to see how these beloved favorites can become game day showstoppers. Chicken wings with a twist Chicken wings are a game day favorite, with the National Chicken Council estimating Americans to consume 1.45 billion wings during the 2024 big game. While Buffalo and barbecue sauces are staples, this classic snack can be modernized by offering alternative dipping options. Sweet chili sauce or spicy Korean gochujang sauce are great choices to add bold and updated flavors. The flavor of buffalo chicken wings is so beloved that its spin-off, buffalo chicken dip, was found by NCSharp to be the most popular dip option for the big game. Consider making smoked buffalo chicken dip this year to add a rich, smoky flavor to this popular dip. Fresh takes on nachos Nachos are a game day classic, but with a modern twist, they can be taken to the next level. Serve them on festive paper plates or in individual baskets to add team colors while making cleanup easier and serving more convenient. To switch up your nacho game, start by swapping out traditional tortilla chips for alternatives like sweet potato chips, plantain chips or crispy wonton wrappers for a unique base. For the cheese, consider using a rich queso made with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a deeper, spicier flavor. For protein, think beyond ground beef or chicken. Shredded barbecue pork nachos, spicy shrimp or even barbecue jackfruit can bring exciting new flavors to your nachos. Add textural contrast with unexpected toppings like toasted pepitas, crispy chickpeas or crumbled queso fresco. For those who love heat, top it off with thinly sliced jalapenos or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Modern nachos are all about layering bold flavors and textures to create a satisfying and sophisticated dish. Pigs in a blanket revisited Pigs in a blanket, a nostalgic snack made by wrapping mini sausages in dough and baking them, remains a favorite for many. According to PopCulture, it’s also the most popular game day snack in Michigan and Georgia. Jenna Urben, writer at The Urben Life, incorporates pigs in a blanket every year, explaining, “It’s a tradition to make pigs in a blanket for our Super Bowl party each year! They’re so easy to whip up, especially in the air fryer. I serve them with homemade honey mustard and spicy ketchup for dipping.” Pigs in a blanket are beloved for their kid-friendly appeal, so it’s a good idea to stick with the traditional recipe. However, if you want to add a twist, try serving them with warm beer cheese or Sriracha ketchup for dipping. Coat the dough in everything bagel seasoning before baking to create a modern upgrade for an extra layer of flavor. Meat and cheese with a theme Serving cured meats and cheese at parties is nothing new, but since charcuterie’s resurgence in 2019, charcuterie boards have become a staple of American party spreads. For Shelby, strength and nutrition coach at Fit As A Mama Bear, a charcuterie board is the centerpiece of her game day offerings, explaining, “Our Super Bowl apps have stayed the same for years because everyone loves them! We always have a big charcuterie spread along with spicy deviled eggs and honey garlic chicken wings.” Charcuterie boards are easily customized for the occasion. Consider incorporating a festive touch to a football charcuterie board by adding team colors with fresh or dried fruits, dips, jams or colored popcorn. Incorporating snacks inspired by the participating teams is another fun idea. For example, serve buffalo-seasoned pretzels as a nod to Buffalo’s famous wings, barbecue-smoked nuts to represent Kansas City barbecue or mini beignets to celebrate New Orleans. Fresh ideas for your game day spread With these fresh takes on tailgating food, you’re sure to impress your guests and add a modern flair to the classics. By adding bold flavors, team-themed touches or unique ingredients, these creative twists will have everyone coming back for more. So, gather the ingredients, get ready to serve up something special, and make this game day one to remember. Michelle Goth is a professionally trained cook and cookbook author dedicated to celebrating Midwestern cooking traditions. She shares easy recipes for family dinners and holidays at Blackberry Babe.