Score Big on Opening Day: Delicious Tailgating Recipes to Celebrate Baseball Season

Baseball season is upon us, and there's no better way to celebrate than with a tailgating party featuring delicious and crowd-pleasing recipes, especially when the Milwaukee Brewers face off against the Chicago Cubs on opening day at Wrigley Field. We've got two amazing dishes that you can make for your friends and family: Cauliflower Nachos and Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers. These mouth-watering appetizers are perfect for sharing and will have everyone eagerly anticipating the next game! ⚾ 

Cauliflower Nachos are an excellent alternative to traditional nachos, as they are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This recipe combines the bold flavors of roasted cauliflower, black beans, and zesty spices for a satisfying and healthy game day treat.

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• ¼ teaspoon chili powder

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 6 ounces tortilla chips

• 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 Roma tomato, diced

• ⅓ cup guacamole, homemade or store-bought

• ¼ cup diced red onion

• 1 jalapeno, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly greasing a baking sheet or applying a nonstick spray.
2. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then add garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and gently mix everything together. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and has a golden brown color.
3. Next, spread tortilla chips evenly over the cauliflower. Layer black beans and cheese on top.
4. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake until the dish is warmed through and the cheese has melted, approximately 5-6 minutes.

Serve right away, garnishing with tomato, guacamole, onion, jalapeno, and cilantro.

For those who love a little heat, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are sure to hit the spot. This recipe combines the creaminess of cream cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeños, all wrapped up in crispy bacon. These irresistible bites are perfect for fans of bold flavors and make a fantastic addition to any tailgating menu.

Ingredients

• 8 medium jalapeño peppers

• 6 oz cream cheese , softened

• 8 slices bacon

Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a wire rack on a large rimmed baking sheet and set aside.
2. Slice each jalapeño lengthwise with caution, then use a spoon to remove the seeds and membranes. Make sure to wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling the jalapeños to avoid irritation. (Avoid touching your eyes or children before washing your hands!)
3. Evenly distribute the cream cheese among the jalapeño halves, filling each one. Halve the bacon slices and wrap each jalapeño half snugly with a piece of bacon.
4. Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on the wire rack placed over the baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is as crispy as desired.

For an extra dash of flavor, drizzle Mike’s Hot Honey before serving 🌶️

These two delicious tailgating recipes are sure to make your opening day celebration a home run. The Cauliflower Nachos offer a healthier spin on a beloved classic, while the Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers bring the heat for those who enjoy life on the spicier side. Your guests will be delighted by these tasty treats.

So, fire up the grill, grab your favorite beverage, and let's kick off baseball season with a fantastic tailgating party!