There are some great games going on this time of year. And we’ve got to have great food to go along with them.

If it’s not a federal law, it should be.

My go-to has always been steakburgers during the game. But why not try smaller sliders with a twist like caramelized onion and gorgonzola sliders or applewood bacon and cheddar sliders?

And then there are steaks when you really want to get serious. Boneless ribeyes are my favorites, but there are so many delicious cuts to choose from – why not grill up a variety?

Hickory smoked baby back ribs are a great finger food that’ll satisfy for sure. Or try a beef brisket or all beef hot dogs. You really can’t go wrong with any of those.

Check out these tailgating options, even if you’re “tailgating” in your own living room. You’re sure to find plenty of game day food ideas that will whet your appetite!

Wanna tailgate? Make it fun and create a theme!

Here’s one of my faves: Kansas City Style Tailgating.

What does that mean? All food is – what else? – KC style!

Start with some Kansas City strip steaks (seasoned with a Kansas City rub).

Or, perhaps some KC cheesesteaks. What makes these different than Philly cheesesteaks, you ask? Well, they’re from Kansas City, of course!

Add some pit beans – Kansas City style – and you’ve got a rootin’ tootin’ KC-themed tailgate party.

Have a blast playing off this theme and create your own to play with.

It’s tailgate season, friends, let’s do it up right!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

Are you a heavy-duty tailgater?

Then you probably have this tailgating thing down!

For the rest of us non-professionals, some tailgating hacks might be useful before heading out to cheer on your team – and eat like a champ!

Tip #1 – Prepare as much food as you can beforehand. You don’t want to spend ALL your tailgate time working away over a hot propane stove.

Tip #2 – Keep it simple. Do you really want a four-course meal with dijonnaise sauce and delicate fritters? No! You’re out in a parking lot for goodness’ sake. Try brisket. Ribs. Burgers. Steak. Bite-sized appetizers.

Tip #3 – Never, ever run out of food. We don’t want a brawl on our hands. Those fans get hungry!

Tip #4 – Since you will be following tip #3, make sure to bring a cooler specifically for leftovers. Tailgate food is great even the next day! But you have to store it properly so it will keep.

Tip #5 – Don’t make it so complicated that you won’t have time to have fun yourself. Try sides – and even meals – you can just heat and eat.

Have fun cheering on your team at your next tailgate party. And eat a rib for me!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.