50+ College Tailgating Food Ideas By State

Why is it Called Tailgate Food?

The term “tailgate” originated from using the tailgate of a pickup truck for serving food and drinks during a party. Although a truck is not a requirement for tailgating nowadays, it is where the term comes from. Tailgating culture can vary, especially on college campuses where students may not necessarily drive cars to the stadium; this is particularly true for well-known football schools in the Southeast and Midwest regions where these parties can get big and last all day.

What Kind of Food Is Best for Tailgating?

Grilling and smoking food used to be the primary methods of preparing food for tailgates. However, with the creation of tools like Crockpots, air fryers, and instant pots, as long as you have a generator, the recipe possibilities are endless. No matter how you prepare the food, finger foods and foods you can easily scoop into a paper cup or bowl are a favorite among tailgaters and make for an even better tailgate spread.

College Tailgating Food Ideas By State

The best part about tailgating season isn’t necessarily the football games – it’s the game day food we get to make, share, and enjoy. Classic fare like burgers, hot dogs, wings, and nachos are tailgating staples, but every state has unique recipes and regional flavors to feed crowds of hungry fans.

I compiled more than 50 of the best tailgating food ideas influenced by local cuisine in each state. And hey, I am only human, so if you see a recipe you love missing, let us know in the comments. So fire up your outdoor grill and continue reading for the very best college tailgating food from every state!

1. Alabama

Schools: University of Alabama and Auburn University

Football at Alabama is a way of life. Fans arrive on campus days in advance to arrange elaborate tailgating setups complete with portable grills, TVs, yard games, and food – lots of it! Here are some of Alabama’s favorite tailgate food ideas: 

• Pork Ribs
• Fried Chicken
• Grilled Flank Steak
• Shrimp and Grits
• Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce
• Alabama Fire Crackers
• Sweet Tea

2. Alaska

School: University of Alaska Fairbanks

• Salmon Dip
• Salmon Jerky
• Candied Salmon

3. Arizona

Schools: Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, University of Arizona

• Green Chile Cheeseburgers
• Carne Asada Tacos
• Sonoran Hot Dogs
• Elote

4. Arkansas

School: University of Arkansas

It wouldn’t be tailgating in Arkansas without Arkansas cheese dip and tortilla chips, but don’t call it queso, or you will get an ear full. Other game-day favorites include Razorback dip and chili finished with all your favorite toppings, like red onions, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and corn chips.

5. California

Schools: Stanford University, University of California Berkeley, UCLA, and University of Southern California

According to the internet, vegetables with ranch dressing and guacamole are the most notable appetizers at tailgate parties in California. However, the good eats are so much more than that! Expect tasty dishes like carnitas made with tender pork shoulder, chicharróns, and L.A.-style hot dogs. 

Larger tailgate parties even hire taco trucks to make homemade street tacos, like carne asada tacos. Among the favorite tailgate foods of Californians is Korean BBQ, specifically grilled Korean L.A. galbi beef ribs.

6. Colorado

School: University of Colorado Boulder

Make a popular favorite like smoked Brisket, but if you don’t have a smoker, you can prepare beef brisket in the oven beforehand or try brisket sliders. Other Colorado football meals include hatch pork green chili, smoked beef ribs, and chili verde.

7. Connecticut

School: Yale University

• Clam Chowder
• Lobster Rolls

8. Delaware

School: University of Delaware

• Chicken and Slicks

9. Florida

School: University of Florida

It’s not called the Sunshine State for nothing! The warm weather in Florida lasts throughout the college football season, making Florida State one of the top places to break out the grill and bust open a cooler. And the ‘Swamp’ in Gainesville is where the Florida Gators and their fans showcase their fierce football spirit and delicious local food.

• Smoked Fish Dip
• Fried Gator Tail
• Cuban Sandwich
• Key Lime Pie

10. Georgia

Schools: Georgia Tech and University of Georgia

• Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
• Boiled Peanuts
• Puppy Chow
• Smoked Chicken Wings
• Low Country Boil
• Brunswick Stew
• Smoked Peach Cobbler
• Wet Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

12. Idaho

School: University of Idaho

In the spud-loving state of Idaho, the football traditions run as deep as their love for potatoes (even though it’s more of a commodity crop). Expect to enjoy an easy appetizer like loaded potato skins and battered steak fingers!

13. Illinois

Schools: University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Italian Sausage
• Chicago Dogs
• Italian Beef Sandwiches

14. Indiana

Schools: Purdue University and Indiana University

• Chex Mix
• Hoosier Pie
• Pork Sandwich

15. Iowa

School: University of Iowa

You will find all kinds of comfort food at tailgating parties in Iowa. With an almost state fair-like atmosphere, enjoy favorites like smoked turkey legs and scotcheroos (chocolate and peanut butter bars) for those with a sweet tooth.

16. Kansas

School: University of Kansas

• Kansas City Tomahawk Pork Chops
• Burnt Ends
• Bierock

17. Kentucky

School: University of Kentucky and University of Louisville

Let’s talk about the delicious food in Kentucky. In this state, food traditions run deep, and that’s why you have to give classic burgoo a try! Common ingredients include pork, beef, mutton, venison, tomatoes, lima beans, and corn. However, use any variety of meats and seasonal vegetables in almost any combination for the stew. Other popular tailgating food ideas are pimento cheese dip and hot brown croissants.

18. Louisiana

School: Louisiana State University and Tulane University

Football fans in Louisiana are famous for a few things. Firstly, they’ve earned a reputation as some of the most vocal, fiercely dedicated, and spirited fans in the South Eastern Conference (SEC).

And while they defend their teams fiercely, they are equally renowned for their warm hospitality, generously serving guests with heaping plates of food! Tailgates in Louisiana start at dawn and go all day with plenty of food and local traditions.

• Jambalaya or Pastalaya
• Gumbo
• Cajun Smoked Boudin and Boudin Balls
• Andouille Sausage
• Cajun Smoked Crawfish Dip
• Cajun Seafood Boil
• Shrimp Etouffee
• Spicy Louisiana Shrimp Dip
• Beignets

19. Maine

School: University of Maine

• Cold Lobster Rolls

20. Maryland

Schools: Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland College Park

• Hot Crab Dip
• Crab Cakes
• Crab Spinach Dip

21. Massachusetts

School: Boston University

• Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwiches
• Boston Baked Beans
• Boston Clam Chowder

22. Michigan

Schools: University of Michigan and Michigan State University

• Grilled Bratwurst with Peppers and Onion
• Michigan Pasties
• Chili Coney Dogs
• El Azteco Copycat Dip

23. Minnesota

School: University of Minnesota

• Tater Tot Hotdish

24. Mississippi

School: Ole Miss

• Fried Chicken
• Potato Salad
• Deviled Eggs
• Mississippi Sin Dip
• Mississippi Mud Dip

25. Missouri

Schools: Washington University in St. Louis and University of Missouri

• St. Louis Style Ribs
• Toasted Ravioli

SEARCHING FOR MORE LIKE THIS? 

If you’re loving these delicious recipes, try one of these appetizer favorites! 

Rainbow Wraps

Chicken Lollipops

Quinoa Balls

Tandoori Chicken Tikka

26. Montana

School: University of Montana

• Huckleberry Pie

29. New Hampshire

Schools: Dartmouth College and University of New Hampshire

Apple cider donuts, made with simple ingredients, are one of the best tailgate recipes, especially for morning games with a piping hot coffee.

30. New Jersey

Schools: Princeton University and Rutgers University

• Sausage and Peppers
• Hot Pork Roll and Cheese Dip

31. New Mexico

School: University of New Mexico

• Walking Tacos

32. New York

Schools: Columbia University, New York University, and Cornell University

• Buffalo Wings

33. North Carolina

Schools: Duke University, North Carolina State University, and UNC Chapel Hill

Celebrate game day in North Carolina with Carolina-style barbecue, particularly Eastern style, which means slow-roasting a whole pig, basted with a spice-and-vinegar mixture while cooking. The rub brings sweet heat to the pork, while the vinegar tenderizes the meat to make delicious pulled pork sandwiches. Complete the meal with Carolina-style or vinegar coleslaw and corn meal battered hush puppies.

Don’t have time to cook? Try the Bojangles Tailgate Pack – complete with 20 pieces of fried chicken, three sides, and sweet teas; it is a go-to for many locals. Barbecue and Bojangles, I mean, what more do you need? Oh, finish the meal off with ice-cold Cheerwine.

34. North Dakota

School: University of North Dakota

• Grilled Kielbasa
• Fleischkuekle

35. Ohio

Schools: Ohio State University

Ohio State football tailgating is a massive tradition, with fans gathering in the parking lots around Ohio Stadium for hours before kickoff. Enjoy grab-and-go meals like grilled Cincinnati mettwurst, loaded potato skins, Cincinnati chili over spaghetti, and skyline cheese coneys. And don’t forget a plate or two of Buckeyes, a sweet treat with the same name as their team.

36. Oklahoma

School: University of Oklahoma

Oklahoma has two time-honored traditions: football and tailgating. And in Oklahoma, no party is complete without cowboy caviar. It’s a delectable dip packed with veggies and beans, and don’t forget about the cast-iron skillet cornbread.

37. Oregon

School: University of Oregon, Oregon State University

Food trucks are a prominent part of tailgates in Oregon, offering a variety of local cuisines, brews, and live music – the whole thing creating a festival-like atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of the Oregon Ducks or the Oregon State Beavers, you can enjoy local football favorites like crispy cauliflower bites, crab dip, and marionberry pie. And you can always count on vegetarian options being available! 

38. Pennsylvania

Schools: Penn State, University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon, and Pittsburgh University

• Stickies
• Cheesesteaks
• Pierogies
• Sausage and Pepper Sandwiches
• Meatball Subs
• Whoopie Pies

39. Rhode Island

Schools: Brown University and University of Rhode Island

You don’t need to go all out with a clambake at your tailgate party, but grilling clams is an easy option anyone can do. Partygoers in Rhode Island throw the clams on the grill in their shells until they pop open. Then, use tongs to transfer them to a plate and drizzle some garlic butter over the top before passing them around for people to enjoy.

40. South Carolina

Schools: University of South Carolina and Clemson

Football Saturdays in South Carolina are about more than just tailgating in parking lots. The entire community comes together and joins in the excitement on game days. Like many other college towns in the South, South Carolina schools have tried-and-true tailgating recipes, and at the top of the list is mustard-based Carolina BBQ, including fan-favorite pulled pork sliders. Here are some other popular South Carolina recipes:

• Chicken Bog
• Pimento Cheesy Dip
• Banana Pudding Cups

41. South Dakota

Schools: University of South Dakota

Tailgaters in South Dakota take pride in their elaborate set-ups and enjoy the excitement of cheering on their team with regional favorites like Chislic. You can prepare the skewers with cubed beef, lamb, or venison and sprinkle them with garlic salt.

42. Tennessee

School: University of Tennessee

Tailgating is a big part of football culture in Tennessee. Before game time, fans gather in parking lots around Neyland Stadium in Knoxville to barbecue and eat classic Southern comfort foods like pulled pork, fried catfish, Memphis-style ribs with dry rub, chow chow, coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.

43. Texas

Schools: University of Texas Austin and Texas A&M

Texas, tailgating, and football go hand-in-hand. Fans gather to cheer on their teams before kickoff with large Texas-sized helpings of tailgating favorites like smoked brisket and grilled sausages, but don’t forget to wrap them in a flour tortilla! Breakfast tacos for early morning games, chili con carne (no beans – of course), sizzling fajitas, and Frito pies are also tailgating staples.

Psst, if you think beans go in chili as I do, try my recipe for chili con carne with black beans. And if you don’t have a smoker, you can prepare brisket in the oven beforehand or bring my juicy brisket sliders.

44. Utah

School: University of Utah, Brigham Young University

From TVs and corn hole to Spike Ball and smokers, the fan gathering sets the tone for the game. And what better way to ready yourself for cheering on your team than homemade food and ice chests laden with specialty soda? Fans in Utah eat hot appetizers like funeral potatoes, smoked jalapeño poppers, smoked jalapeño popper dip, and Utah’s most talked about food, fry sauce! And, if you’re a fan of BYU, you will enjoy free ice cream from the BYU creamery handed out during the game.

45. Vermont

School: University of Vermont

Two of the most notable tailgating treats at the University of Vermont are macaroni and cheese made with Vermont sharp cheddar cheese and a splash of craft beer, and don’t forget the maple creemees (soft serve ice cream); the single-serve dessert is always a crowd pleaser, as long as you can find a way to keep them cold. 

46. Virginia

School: University of Virginia

• Country Ham Sandwiches
• Smoked Turkey Legs

47. Washington

School: University of Washington

On game days, Husky stadium on the shores of Lake Washington becomes a spectacle of floating SAILGATING parties. Diehard fans arrive at the stadium in style. With boats bobbing under sunny skies and fans mingling dockside before kickoff, the lake transforms into a vibrant marina of purple and gold.

Keeping with the water theme, you will see popular salmon favorites like teriyaki salmon, foil-pack salmon, smoked salmon cheese balls, and smoked salmon dip on the menu.

48. West Virginia

School: West Virginia University

When researching tailgates in West Virginia, one food stood out above all others – the beloved pepperoni rolls! A pepperoni roll is a handheld snack that combines a soft yeast roll with slices of pepperoni baked inside. Some variations include different kinds of cheese like provolone or mozzarella or brushing the top with garlic butter. 

49. Wisconsin

School: University of Wisconsin Madison

Thousands of fans gather hours before kickoff to eat, drink, play games like cornhole, and get pumped up to cheer on their team. The most dedicated fans bring grills, tents, and tables and spend the whole day socializing and partying with fellow fans before heading into the stadium to watch the game. These tailgates often feature beer-smoked bratwurst, grilled kielbasa, beer cheese dip, and famous cheddar cheese curds as a part of their game day menu. 

50. Wyoming

School: University of Wyoming

In this college town, tailgaters stick to longstanding cowboy traditions by eating popular meals like bison steak, meatballs, burgers, and Chugwater chili before games.

More Classic Tailgating Favorites

• Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
• Guacamole
• Football Cupcakes
• Instant Pot Beef Ribs
• Turkey Smash Burgers
• Beef Ribs in the Oven
• Football Cheese Ball
• Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
• Gluten-Free Pasta Salad
• Pico De Gallo
• Air Fryer Mini Tacos
• And try one of these 25 chili recipes!

AM I MISSING A RECIPE YOU LOVE? 

Let us know in the comments! We want to see every school and every local cuisine represented.