My Georgia Home

There’s nothing quite like the first weekend of college football in the SEC. The air practically buzzes with excitement—team colors everywhere, rivalries heating up, and the anticipation of Saturdays filled with tailgates and touchdowns. Here in the South, football isn’t just a sport, it’s a tradition, and what better way to celebrate the kickoff weekend than by hosting a get-together right at home?

Whether you’re cheering for the Dawgs, the Tide, or anyone in between, game day gatherings are about more than just football—they’re about food, friends, and creating memories. Hosting at home gives you the best of both worlds: the energy of game day and the comfort of your own space.

Setting the Scene for Game Day

Turn your living room or patio into the perfect watch-party spot. A few easy touches can make it feel festive without going overboard:

Team Colors Everywhere – Pull out napkins, tablecloths, and even throw blankets in your team’s colors. Serveware with Personality – From football-shaped trays to my new pumpkin casserole dish (the one I scored at Walmart!), seasonal serveware makes snacks feel even more special. Easy Grab-and-Go Drinks – Stock a cooler or drink station so guests don’t miss a big play while digging through the fridge.

Food is the Real MVP 🍴

Of course, no SEC game day is complete without food. The key is a mix of hearty bites and easy-to-share dips that keep everyone satisfied through all four quarters. Think:

A warm, cheesy dip that gets devoured by halftime A crowd-pleasing casserole that feels like comfort food Lighter options (veggie trays, fruit skewers) to balance things out

I came across this new queso recipe that I just love. I’ve been guilty of serving the same Velveeta sausage dip for years and thought I would change things up!

Tailgate Queso Dip

2 Ib Velvetta

8 oz Pepper Jack Cheese

1 Block Cream Cheese

& 3 Jalapeños, diced no seeds

1/2 C Flame Roasted Green Chile

2 cans of Rotel

1-2 T of a dry BBQ rub

Dash of cumin

1/2 C of heavy cream or a can of cream of chicken soup

Low for 2 – 3 hrs, High for 1 – 2 hrs, stirring every 20 min or so

If you have power a crock pot is great. You can also put this on a grill or a smoker. This Captiva smoker at Target:

https://tr.ee/HU8qrY

Is amazing to give you queso that extra flavor they you just can’t get with a crockpot. You can even convert it to be a charcoal grill. I love things with a dual purpose.

Entertaining Without the Stress

Hosting doesn’t mean you need to be stuck in the kitchen. Prep ahead where you can, choose recipes that hold up well as people graze, and let guests pitch in by bringing a favorite side or dessert. Remember, it’s about enjoying the game together—not pulling off a picture-perfect spread (though a few Instagram-worthy food shots never hurt 😉).

This weekend marks the start of another unforgettable SEC season, and I can’t wait to spend Saturdays surrounded by good food, good friends, and plenty of football. Here’s to a season of touchdowns, tailgates, and the best seat in the house—your own living room. 🏈✨