## Steelers Game Day Feast: A Championship-Worthy Sampler of Recipes
Are you ready for some football? More importantly, are you ready for some fantastic food to fuel your Steelers spirit? This blog post is dedicated to creating the ultimate Pittsburgh Steelers game day sampler, featuring a delicious array of recipes that will have your friends and family cheering louder than ever. From classic tailgate staples to unique black and gold-inspired treats, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to bring the heat to your next Steelers gathering!
This Steelers game day sampler focuses on providing a variety of flavors and textures, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’ll guide you through preparing each dish with detailed instructions and helpful tips. Let’s dive in!
### 1. Black & Gold Nachos Supreme
Kick off your game day celebration with these show-stopping nachos. The black bean and corn salsa provides the “black” and the melted cheddar cheese gives the “gold”, making this a visually appealing and tasty appetizer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 1/2 red onion, diced
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* Your favorite salsa
* Guacamole (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ground Beef:** In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and follow the package instructions, usually adding water and simmering for a few minutes.
2. **Prepare the Black Bean and Corn Salsa:** In a medium bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño (if using). Mix well.
3. **Assemble the Nachos:** Spread the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or platter. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese and half of the Monterey Jack cheese over the chips. Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the cheese.
4. **Add the Toppings:** Sprinkle the black bean and corn salsa over the ground beef. Top with the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
5. **Bake (Optional):** If you prefer melted cheese, bake the nachos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes.
6. **Garnish and Serve:** Remove the nachos from the oven or microwave. Drizzle with sour cream, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve with salsa and guacamole on the side.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef or include more jalapeños in the black bean and corn salsa.
* **Add protein:** Shredded chicken or pulled pork can be substituted for ground beef.
* **Cheese variations:** Use a blend of pepper jack, Colby jack, or even queso fresco for a unique flavor.
* **Sheet Pan Option:** For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
### 2. Pittsburgh Pierogi Skewers with Spicy Mustard Dip
No Steelers game day is complete without pierogies! This fun and flavorful twist on a classic Pittsburgh favorite is sure to be a hit. The skewers make them easy to eat, and the spicy mustard dip adds a delicious kick.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (12-16 ounces) frozen pierogies (potato and cheese filling recommended)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
**Spicy Mustard Dip:**
* 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pierogies:** Cook the pierogies according to the package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them until they float, then pan-frying them until golden brown.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** While the pierogies are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
3. **Assemble the Skewers:** Once the pierogies are cooked and the vegetables are sautéed, thread them onto the wooden skewers, alternating between pierogies, onion, and bell pepper pieces. Aim for about 3-4 pierogies per skewer.
4. **Prepare the Spicy Mustard Dip:** In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce until well combined. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your liking.
5. **Serve:** Arrange the pierogi skewers on a platter and serve immediately with the spicy mustard dip on the side.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Pierogi fillings:** Experiment with different pierogi fillings, such as sauerkraut, potato and onion, or even sweet cheese.
* **Vegetable variations:** Add mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture.
* **Air Fryer Option:** Cook pierogies in air fryer for extra crispiness.
### 3. Mini Pittsburgh Salad Sliders
A unique twist on the classic Pittsburgh salad, these sliders are fun, portable, and packed with flavor. The combination of grilled steak, fries, and creamy dressing on a mini bun is a guaranteed touchdown.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 bag (20 ounces) frozen french fries
* 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
* 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
* 1/2 cup creamy ranch dressing or your favorite salad dressing
* 12 slider buns
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Steak:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the steak slices with salt and pepper. Cook the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, chop the steak into small pieces.
2. **Cook the French Fries:** Cook the french fries according to the package directions. Usually, this involves baking them in the oven until golden brown and crispy.
3. **Assemble the Sliders:** Slice the slider buns in half. Spread a spoonful of creamy ranch dressing on the bottom half of each bun. Top with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
4. **Add the Steak and Fries:** Add a generous portion of chopped steak and french fries to each slider. Drizzle with a little more ranch dressing.
5. **Top and Serve:** Top with the other half of the slider bun and serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Steak marinade:** Marinate the steak in your favorite steak marinade for extra flavor.
* **Lettuce variations:** Use mixed greens or spinach instead of shredded lettuce.
* **Dressing variations:** Experiment with different salad dressings, such as Italian, balsamic vinaigrette, or honey mustard.
* **Fry alternatives:** Use waffle fries or sweet potato fries instead of regular french fries.
* **Add a Kick:** A dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor.
### 4. Black and Gold Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic party appetizer, and this black and gold version adds a fun and festive touch to your Steelers game day spread. The black color comes from black olives, and the gold from turmeric.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 large eggs
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
* 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1/4 cup finely chopped black olives
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Paprika, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Hard-Boil the Eggs:** Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Drain the hot water and rinse the eggs with cold water. Peel the eggs and pat them dry.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** Cut the eggs in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a medium bowl. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, and turmeric powder. Mix well until creamy.
3. **Add the Black Olives:** Stir in the finely chopped black olives.
4. **Season and Fill:** Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the filling into the egg white halves, or use a piping bag for a more decorative presentation.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Sprinkle the deviled eggs with paprika and serve chilled.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add spice:** Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
* **Garnish variations:** Garnish with chopped chives, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.
* **Pickle Juice:** Add a teaspoon of pickle juice for extra zing.
* **Bacon Bits:** Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top for added flavor and texture.
### 5. Steelers Sugar Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these adorable Steelers-themed sugar cookies. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, and they add a festive touch to your dessert table.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* Yellow and black food coloring
* Royal icing
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Cookie Dough:** In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. **Chill the Dough:** Divide the dough in half. Wrap each half in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
4. **Roll and Cut the Dough:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use Steelers-themed cookie cutters (such as a football, helmet, or star) to cut out the cookies. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
5. **Bake the Cookies:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. **Decorate the Cookies:** Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with royal icing in Steelers colors (black and yellow). Use piping bags and various tips to create intricate designs.
**Royal Icing Recipe:**
* 4 cups powdered sugar
* 3 tablespoons meringue powder
* 1/2 cup warm water
In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar and meringue powder. Add the warm water and beat with an electric mixer on low speed until the icing is smooth and glossy. Divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring to achieve your desired colors.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Cookie Cutter Alternatives:** If you don’t have Steelers-themed cookie cutters, use round or square cutters and decorate them with icing to resemble footballs or helmets.
* **Sprinkles:** Add black and gold sprinkles for extra sparkle.
* **Edible Markers:** Use edible markers to draw Steelers logos or player numbers on the cookies.
* **Flavor Variations:** Add lemon zest or almond extract to the cookie dough for a different flavor profile.
### 6. Heinz Field Hot Dogs with all the Fixings
No trip to Heinz Field (or a Steelers game day party) is complete without a hot dog! Recreate the classic stadium experience with these fully loaded hot dogs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package (8) hot dogs
* 8 hot dog buns
* Yellow mustard
* Ketchup
* Relish
* Chopped onions
* Sauerkraut
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Chili (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Hot Dogs:** Cook the hot dogs using your preferred method: grilling, boiling, or microwaving. Grill them for a smoky flavor, boil them for a quick and easy option, or microwave them for convenience.
2. **Prepare the Buns:** Lightly toast the hot dog buns, if desired.
3. **Assemble the Hot Dogs:** Place a cooked hot dog in each bun. Top with your favorite condiments and toppings: yellow mustard, ketchup, relish, chopped onions, sauerkraut, shredded cheddar cheese, and chili (if using).
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the hot dogs immediately and enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Hot Dog Brands:** Use your favorite brand of hot dogs. Ball Park Franks are a popular choice.
* **Topping Variations:** Get creative with your toppings! Try adding bacon bits, jalapeños, or coleslaw.
* **Cheese Sauce:** Replace shredded cheddar cheese with nacho cheese sauce for a richer flavor.
* **Spicy Mustard:** Add a kick with spicy brown mustard.
### 7. Primanti Bros. Inspired Sliders
Bring a taste of Pittsburgh’s iconic sandwich shop to your game day spread. These sliders capture the essence of a Primanti Bros. sandwich with grilled meat, coleslaw, french fries, and tomato, all piled high on Italian bread.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound deli meat (capicola, ham, or turkey)
* 8 slider buns (Italian bread or Kaiser rolls)
* 1 cup coleslaw
* 1 cup french fries (cooked)
* 1 large tomato, sliced
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Meat:** If using deli meat, simply slice it thinly. If using steak, grill or pan-fry it to your desired doneness and slice thinly.
2. **Assemble the Sliders:** Cut each slider bun in half. Brush the inside of each bun with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. **Stack the Ingredients:** On the bottom half of each bun, layer the deli meat, coleslaw, french fries, and a slice of tomato. Add the top bun.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the sliders immediately and enjoy the taste of Pittsburgh!
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Meat Choices:** Use any combination of deli meats you prefer.
* **Cheese:** Add a slice of provolone cheese for extra flavor.
* **Vinegar:** Drizzle a little bit of vinegar on top of the coleslaw for authenticity.
* **Fry Type:** Waffle fries are a fun alternative.
### 8. Black & Gold Jell-O Shots
These Jell-O shots are a fun and festive way to celebrate the Steelers. The layers of black and yellow Jell-O make them visually appealing, and they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (3-ounce) package yellow Jell-O
* 1 cup boiling water
* 1/2 cup cold vodka
* 1 (3-ounce) package black cherry Jell-O
* 1 cup boiling water
* 1/2 cup cold vodka
* Small plastic cups or shot glasses
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Yellow Jell-O:** In a medium bowl, dissolve the yellow Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the Jell-O is completely dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup of cold vodka.
2. **Pour into Cups:** Pour the yellow Jell-O mixture into the small plastic cups, filling them about halfway. Place the cups in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours, or until the Jell-O is firm.
3. **Prepare the Black Cherry Jell-O:** In a separate medium bowl, dissolve the black cherry Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the Jell-O is completely dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup of cold vodka.
4. **Pour over Yellow Layer:** Carefully pour the black cherry Jell-O mixture over the firm yellow Jell-O layer in the cups, filling them to the top. Place the cups back in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours, or until the Jell-O is firm.
5. **Serve Chilled:** Serve the Jell-O shots chilled. Garnish with sprinkles or whipped cream, if desired.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Flavor Alternatives:** Use other Jell-O flavors to create different color combinations.
* **Stronger Shots:** Increase the amount of vodka for a stronger kick. Be sure to drink responsibly!
* **Layering Technique:** To ensure clean layers, make sure the bottom layer is completely firm before adding the top layer.
* **Garnish Options:** Top with whipped cream, sprinkles, or even a small piece of Steelers-themed candy.
### 9. Game Day Chili
Nothing warms you up on a cold game day like a hearty bowl of chili. This recipe is packed with flavor and can be easily customized to your liking. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for feeding a large group.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 2 tablespoons chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions, for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Brown the Ground Beef:** Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3. **Add the Remaining Ingredients:** Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
4. **Simmer the Chili:** Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. **Serve Hot:** Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Meat Variations:** Substitute ground turkey, ground sausage, or diced steak for ground beef.
* **Bean Variations:** Add or substitute different types of beans, such as pinto beans or great northern beans.
* **Vegetarian Chili:** Omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your liking.
* **Slow Cooker Option:** Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
### 10. Terrible Towel Twirlers (Pretzel Sticks)
These are a fun, easy and themed treat that requires only a few ingredients. Representing the Steelers’ most iconic symbol, the Terrible Towel, these pretzel sticks are perfect for a quick snack.
**Ingredients:**
* Pretzel Sticks
* Yellow Candy Melts
* Black Candy Melts
* Sprinkles (Black and Yellow – optional)
**Instructions**
1. **Melt the Candy Melts:** In separate bowls, melt the yellow and black candy melts according to package directions. Generally, this involves microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
2. **Dip the Pretzel Sticks:** Dip each pretzel stick into the melted yellow candy, coating about two-thirds of the stick. Place on parchment paper.
3. **Drizzle with Black:** Once the yellow coating has set (but is still a bit tacky), drizzle the melted black candy over the yellow part of the pretzel stick. You can use a fork or a piping bag with a small hole to create the drizzle effect.
4. **Add Sprinkles (Optional):** While the chocolate is still wet, add yellow or black sprinkles for extra decoration.
5. **Let it Set:** Allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a faster set.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Use a double boiler:** If you don’t have a microwave, you can use a double boiler to melt the candy melts.
* **Add nuts:** Sprinkle chopped nuts over the melted chocolate for added texture.
* **Use different colors:** Get creative and use different colors of candy melts to match your team’s colors.
### Conclusion
With these delicious and festive recipes, you’re sure to create a memorable Steelers game day experience for your friends and family. Whether you’re tailgating at the stadium or hosting a party at home, these dishes will keep everyone fueled up and cheering for the Black and Gold! So, gather your ingredients, put on your Steelers jersey, and get ready to cook up a championship-worthy feast. Let’s go Steelers! Remember to always enjoy responsibly and have a fantastic game day! Go Steelers!