The Super Bowl is the single largest sporting event in North America. It’s the largest day of food consumption in the U.S. after Thanksgiving Day. More than 200 million people will be tuning in on Feb. 3 to watch the Baltimore Ravens and the San Francisco 49ers battle for the Vince Lombardi trophy while a possible 79,000 will be seated at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome (formerly the Louisiana Superdome) in New Orleans, cheering on their favorite team.

Super Bowl parties, large and small, will have been going on for days prior to kickoff. But for those who watch the game while seated in a comfortable chair, their Super Bowl gathering is one of the top at-home party events of the year. It’s probably the least fussy, most unpretentious party one can host, so there is no point in holding anything back. Go all out and serve everyone’s favorite high-fat, finger-licking snack foods. Super Bowl parties have become an event where Americans can eat their favorite foods without guilt.

Whether you’re planning a Super Bowl party out of love for the game or just the desire to host a fun, relaxing party, here are some recipes and tips that will avoid fumbles and score major points no matter what the reason may be.

Plan simple portable foods. A buffet is your only option. No one wants to be seated at a table to eat. It’s the television they want to see. Don’t prepare recipes that will keep you locked in the kitchen. Have a room available for those who may not want to watch the game. Plan on plenty of beverages. Have a lot of paper towels, napkins and rug cleaner handy for messes created during exciting plays. Above all, enjoy your own party.

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