Your Ultimate Guide to a Stress-Free Super Bowl Party

Is your game day spread ready for kickoff?

Beyond the plays on the field, the right strategy at your buffet is just as crucial for a winning night. We all love a table stacked with crispy chicken wings, hearty chili, and fresh pizza, but as the game heads into overtime, it’s easy to lose track of time. To ensure your guests are cheering for the food as much as the touchdowns, timing is everything. Perishable foods should never sit out at room temperature for more than two hours, or they’ll slip into the notorious Danger Zone where bacteria love to play.

Mastering the heat and the chill

Whether you’re channeling your inner chef or relying on your favorite delivery spot, temperature is your best friend. Once your food arrives, aim to serve it promptly or keep it at the right heat. A preheated oven or a slow cooker is a total lifesaver for keeping meat dishes consistently above 140°F. For those cool dips and fresh sides, try nesting your serving bowls in ice to keep everything crisp and safe. A pro tip from our kitchen to yours: serve your feast in two rounds—one for the first half and a fresh batch after halftime—to keep your snacks from sitting out too long.

Clean starts and the secret of internal temps

Safety starts before the first whistle with a thorough wash of your hands and surfaces. Always use separate cutting boards for ready-to-eat snacks and raw ingredients to avoid any cross-contamination. If you’re ever unsure if those wings are perfectly done, a food thermometer is the most valuable MVP in your kitchen. Poultry should always hit an internal temperature of 165°F so you and your friends can enjoy every bite without worry. If there are leftovers after the final whistle, pop them straight into the fridge so you can enjoy the highlights the next day with a delicious, safe snack.