Tailgate like a pro

Try New Toppings

Smoked sausage and deli meats are easy to add to a bun for an instant meal, and there’s plenty of ways to dress your tailgate menu up or down based upon the preferences of your guests. Be sure to keep some basics on hand for those who prefer traditional preparation, but for the more adventurous types, try out these ideas for toppings that create a new dimension of flavor.

Grilled onion

Grilled peppers

Grilled, roasted or sauteed mushrooms

Spicy mustard

Flavored ketchup

(think spicy, fruity or sweet) Ethnic flavors like curry or marinara sauce

Hot sauce

Roasted corn relish Crumbled or shredded cheese Bacon crumbles

Handy Hacks

Repurpose coffee filters as holders for your sandwiches. They’re easy to hold and help keep your favorite toppings contained.

Up-cycle an empty six-pack container into a convenient cookout caddy to hold napkins, condiments and utensils. Not only is it quick to grab and place on the table, but it helps keep napkins from blowing away in a breeze.

For kabobs, keep wooden skewers from charring by soaking them in water before threading on ingredients.

Prepare toppings the night before and arrange them in a disposable foil pan for quick and easy DIY topping bar.