The Super Bowl is the most popular sporting event in America, and it is also an opportunity to indulge in good food and drinks while watching the game. However, it is easy to overspend on snacks and party essentials, which can drain your wallet. Therefore, this $15 vs. $500 Super Bowl snack budget challenge will show you how to make delicious and affordable party treats and compare them to their more expensive counterparts.

$15 Snack Budget

With a $15 snack budget, you can still make tasty treats that will impress your guests without breaking the bank. Here are some ideas:

1. Nachos – Layer tortilla chips with shredded cheese, canned black beans, jalapenos, and salsa. Bake in the oven until crispy and golden.

2. Chicken wings – Bake drumettes and flats with a combination of buffalo sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder. Serve with celery and ranch dressing.

3. Mini sliders – Cook mini patties or meatballs and assemble them on slider buns with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.

4. Popcorn – Pop a large bowl of popcorn and toss with melted butter and salt. Feel free to add optional seasonings like garlic powder or Parmesan cheese.

5. Chips and Dip – Serve a variety of chips and dip including guacamole, salsa, and queso dip.

$500 Snack Budget

If you have a more generous $500 snack budget, you can elevate your game day food with premium ingredients and fancy presentation. Here are some ideas:

1. Charcuterie board – Assemble a board with high-quality cured meats, artisanal cheese, olives, pickles, nuts, and fruits.

2. Lobster rolls – Serve mini lobster rolls with toasted brioche buns, lobster meat dressed with lemon mayo, and finely chopped celery.

3. Shrimp cocktail – Arrange cooked and chilled jumbo shrimp on a platter with cocktail sauce, garnished with fresh lemon and parsley.

4. Beef tenderloin – Roast beef tenderloin to medium-rare and serve slices on top of toasted baguette rounds with horseradish cream and arugula.

5. Sushi platter – Order a sushi platter from a Japanese restaurant that includes various rolls, sushi, and sashimi.

Summary

Whether you are on a tight budget or have room to splurge, there are snack options to fit your needs for the Super Bowl. With a $15 snack budget, you can create delicious and satisfying staples like nachos, chicken wings, mini sliders, popcorn, and chips and dip. If you have a higher snack budget of $500, you can indulge in premium items like charcuterie board, lobster rolls, shrimp cocktail, beef tenderloin, and sushi platter. Regardless of the budget, the most important aspect of game day snacking is enjoying good food and great company.