Slam-Dunk Snacks and Sips
Welcome to the most exciting time of the year for college basketball fans! As the tournament heats up, so does the need for refreshing beverages, delicious snacks, and meals to fuel your watch parties. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just here for the food, we’ve got you covered with mouth-watering recipes that will make your basketball celebrations unforgettable.
Here's a game-winning lineup of crowd-pleasing dishes and drinks to keep your watch party fueled from tip-off to the final buzzer.
Set the scene with basketball-themed decor. Hang mini hoops on the walls, scatter team banners around the room, and use orange and black tableware to mimic a basketball court.
Keep the energy up during halftime with activities like a mini free-throw contest using a toy hoop or a tournament bracket challenge with prizes for the winners. These games will keep the competitive spirit alive throughout the party.
Tip-Off Appetizers
All the cheering and shouting works up a hearty appetite and a big thirst, so the food and beverages are key players. Get ready to elevate game day snacking with some of our favorites that you can have out and ready before tip-off! Don’t be afraid to ask guests to bring a dish, perhaps one that represents their favorite team or a region in the tournament. Just be sure to know in advance what everyone is bringing so you can balance out the menu in terms of flavors and textures.
Mini Bracket Bites - Caprese Skewers
For a lighter option, try bite-sized caprese skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. They’re fresh, flavorful and the perfect finger food for stress-eating during a close game.
Overtime Snacks
Fan Favorites
Nacho/Taco Bar
Nachos are a game day classic, but why not upgrade to a nacho and taco bar? Offer toppings like seasoned beef, shredded chicken, queso, jalapeños, black beans, guacamole, and salsa, along with tortilla chips, taco shells, and soft tortillas. Guests can load up their nachos or craft the perfect taco for a customizable feast!
Basketball and Brews
Whether you’re a casual fan or a college basketball aficionado, the combination of basketball and beer offers a unique way to enjoy the game. If you’re having a watch party include a mix of light lagers, hoppy IPAs, and a robust stout or celebrate the diversity of teams by sampling beers from different regions. Add an extra layer of fun by setting up a beer bracket. Pit different brews against each other and have your friends score on their favorites to see which one comes out on top.
Buzzer Beater Cocktail
Mix up a simple but crowd-pleasing cocktail with vodka, lemon-lime soda and a splash of cranberry juice for a refreshing sip. For a non-alcoholic version, swap vodka for sparkling water.
Hoop Dreams Punch
Create a big-batch party punch with pineapple juice, orange juice and ginger ale. Add an ice ring with frozen fruit for an eye-catching (and refreshing) twist.
Game-Winning Desserts
Basketball Oreo Truffles
These bite-sized treats are easy to make and almost too cute to eat! With their round, gooey shape, they look just like mini basketballs, making them the perfect snack to keep the game day vibes going strong.
