Jules has a few dietary restrictions (mostly gluten- and dairy-free), but that’s never stopped our family from indulging in our favorite foods. With a little creativity and a lot of taste-testing, I’ve found lots of great substitutes that are crowd-pleasers. No need to make any disclaimers on these Game Day snacks — your party people won’t be able to tell the difference between my nachos and the “real thing.”
Gluten-Free, Dairy-free Nachos
These are a weeknight staple in our house (because they’re so easy), but you can dress ’em up for the big game with all of the toppings.
Chipotle Chicken Dip
Better than Buffalo Chicken Dip, this snack-a-tizer has a subtle heat and a ton of flavor. It’s the kind of dip that’s so good that everyone stands around it until it’s gone. (No one believes it’s gluten-free and dairy-free.)
Mango Coconut-Glazed Chicken Wings
Sweet and tangy, these are the wings of my dreams. Pro tip: Grill (or bake) or wings before smothering them in this awesome sauce. The sugar won’t burn off, and you’ll be left with a killer (finger-licking) flavor.
Lime & Cilantro Air Fryer Chicken Wings
An Air Fryer is an awesome method for crisping up some chicken wings, and lime + cilantro is a glaze everyone goes for. This one is slightly unexpected, so if you’re bringing something to the party — surprise them with these.
Chicharron de Ribeye Tacos
Crispy beef, creamy guac, simple toppings. Best of all, this handheld snack can be downed in two or three bites, so you’re free for celebratory high fives.
BBQ Pork Belly Bites
These are tender and tangy and easily speared with a toothpick. This is a great hot app to pass around when the chips are getting low.
The Perfect Charcuterie Board
There’s a formula to this. A playbook, if you will. Make sure all of the key players are present and accounted for. (There are plenty of gluten-free crackers and dairy-free cheeses to populate a board, but a sampler like this can have something for everyone.)
Five-Minute Hummus
This hummus is better than anything you can buy at the store, and you can put it together on a commercial break.
Smash Burgers
If you have a flat-top grill or a griddle, you have to burger this way. It’s just crispier and juicier than a regular burger — and therefore, far superior. Don’t skimp on the seasoning, the sauce, or the pickles, please. (Swap in vegan cheddar for the win.)
(Keto) Coconut Shrimp
These shrimp bites double-down (actually triple-down) on the coconut flavor for an unmistakable treat that just tastes like a party. Don’t skip the creole cocktail sauce—it’s essential.
Cucumber & Bacon Bites
These look as delicious as they are fun to eat. Dairy-free cheese makes these perfect for people with allergies or lactose intolerance.
Gluten-free Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Caramel Corn
This is a hard-to-stop kind of snack that satisfies the sweet tooths in the crowd.
Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs
These are great to make ahead and easy to bring along, so you’re not rushing at the last minute. One of my favorites!
Grilled Turkey & Beef Meatballs With Smoked Marinara
The grill adds an unexpected and entirely welcome smokiness to these tasty grain-free, dairy-free meatballs.
Gluten-free, Dairy-free Crab Dip
This cold crab dip is so fresh and tasty. Great for the seafood-lovers at your get-together.
Classic Deviled Eggs
I love a variation on the theme, but nothing beats these classic deviled eggs. Your friends will be asking for the recipe.
Cucumber Crunch Salad
This recipe was one of my most popular recipes last year. It’s perfect for when you want to lighten up a potluck menu.
Easy Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp
This tasty appetizer takes 15 minutes to put together, so you won’t miss much of the action (or the entertaining commercials).
Skillet White Bean Dip with Spicy Italian Sausage
Trust me, this is one of the best dairy-free dips you’ll have on the menu this year.
Candied Ham Skewers
Start this one in the oven a few hours before the big game, and you’ll be ready to serve them once your friends arrive! This recipe makes a ton—you can just leave the skewers by the dish if you want to skip the extra prep.
