The Super Bowl is only days away! We all know what that means! Amazing snacks! The best commercials! A fun half-time show! Oh yeah….also a football game.
Who will win? The 14-2 Kansas City Chiefs take on the 11-5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. There is no end to interesting storylines leading up to the game. The Chiefs are led by phenom quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who led his team to a Super Bowl victory last year and was named MVP of the game. But don’t sleep on the Bucs, helmed by a little-known quarterback named Tom Brady. Brady has 10 Super Bowls under his belt with 6 wins. The Buccaneers will also be the first team ever to play the big game in their home stadium.
When it comes to local fans, their team of choice is pretty clear. In a Monitor Facebook poll with almost 200 voters, 77% of people said they will root for the Chiefs, with not much love going to the Bucs. Several voters noted they will pull for the Chiefs as the more local team. Austin Charlson said, “Gotta stay local! Support a Midwest team, even if it isn't my beloved Bears!” A few people said they are cheering for any team featuring NOT Tom Brady. Others said they are just hoping for good commercials.
Even if you’re not interested in the game itself, tasty snack options can make the event fun for all. Below are recipes for a few of my favorites!
Taco Dip Scooper Beef
2 lb. ground beef
2 pkgs taco seasoning
¾ c. water
½ c. milk
2 8 oz pkgs cream cheese
4 tsp. diced green chiles
4 medium tomatoes, chopped (about 1 ½ c.)
1 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
1 ½ finely chopped lettuce
1 8 oz bottle taco sauce
1 pkg. (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
Brown meat and drain. Add taco seasoning and water to beef. Mix cream cheese with milk. Spread cream cheese on bottom of a tray, plate or pan. Sprinkle cooled beef on top. (Save a little beef for garnishing the top). Add layers of remaining ingredients. Feel free to add other layers such as olives, jalapenos, etc.
Enjoy with tortilla chips, crackers or your favorite dipper.
Orange Glazed Little Smokies
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/4 cup thawed orange juice concentrate
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 package (16 ounces) miniature smoked sausages
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Add sausages; stir to coat.
Cover and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes or until bubbly, stirring a few times. OR… put the all ingredients in a Crock Pot a couple hours before your event, stir several times as they heat up.
