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The Ultimate DIY Potato Bar for Game Day
When fall rolls around and the temperatures drop, there’s nothing like good old comfort food to warm you up. But what I like even more than comfort food is something that’s easy to make, prepare, serve, and clean up! And what does my family like? Variety.
Okay, I’ll be honest, I like variety too… I’m the person at the restaurant who wants everyone to order something different so we can all share! Haha. Tapas are totally my jam. And so is this ultimate DIY potato bar. It’s a super simple way to serve up a huge variety of foods, both healthy and hearty, let everyone customize their plate, and feed a large group of people without too much preparation beforehand.
Why a Potato Bar?
Potatoes are a versatile, crowd-pleasing base for a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer them baked, mashed, or roasted, they provide a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and easy to prepare in large quantities.
Potatoes are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium, folate, and vitamins C and B6.
Healthline
Setting Up Your Potato Bar
1. Choose Your Potatoes:
- Baked Potatoes: Perfect for a classic potato bar. Bake a large batch of russet potatoes, and keep them warm in a slow cooker or wrapped in foil.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, mashed potatoes are a comforting option. Prepare a large pot, and keep them warm in a slow cooker.
- Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier twist, include baked sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs well with both savory and sweet toppings.
Potatoes are chalked full of vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, potassium, fiber, vitamin C and niacin, and Sweet Potatoes have been ranked as one of the most nutrient-packed vegetables available and are loaded with Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, and fiber, rich in antioxidants, potassium, and iron. You can create a rainbow of flavor, color, and nutrients with a wide array of toppings as well. Here are just a few ideas…
2. Topping Ideas:
Basics:
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground pepper
- Butter
Savory Toppings:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chives or green onions
- Steamed broccoli
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Caramelized onions
- Gravy (beef, chicken, or mushroom)
- Barbecue sauce
- Blue cheese or ranch salad dressing
- Fritos or other crushed chips
Cheeses:
- Shredded cheddar or jack
- Crumbled blue or feta
- Grated Parmesan
- Ricotta
Meats:
- Chili (meat or vegetarian)
- Crumbled bacon
- Taco meat
- Fajita chicken or beef
- Pulled pork
- Smoked salmon
- Chopped salami or pepperoni
Healthy Options:
- Sliced avocado
- Black beans
- Corn
- Salsa
- Pico de gallo
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley)
Sweet Toppings (for sweet potatoes):
- Cinnamon sugar
- Maple syrup
- Mini marshmallows
- Crushed nuts (pecans, walnuts)
- Dried cranberries
3. Additional Accompaniments:
- Rolls or garlic bread
- Side salad
- Fresh fruit platter
Tips for a Successful Potato Bar
1. Preparation:
- Prep your toppings in advance. Chop, grate, and cook as needed, then store them in separate containers.
- Use slow cookers to keep your potatoes and toppings warm throughout the event.
- Label your toppings so guests know what’s available.
2. Presentation:
- Attractively arrange your toppings. Use bowls, platters, and jars to create a visually appealing spread.
- Provide serving utensils for each topping to make it easy for guests to serve themselves.
3. Clean-Up:
- Use disposable plates and utensils for easy clean-up.
- Have plenty of napkins on hand.
- Provide trash bags or bins for guests to dispose of their used items.
Game Day Atmosphere
To create the perfect game day atmosphere, set up your potato bar near the TV so guests can easily grab food without missing any action. Decorate with your team’s colors, and consider adding some fun touches like football-themed tablecloths or banners.
Conclusion
So, next time game day rolls around – whether it’s Sunday, Monday night, or Friday (when is there not football on right now?) – make your life easier and your friends’ bellies happier with this “Pigskin” Potato Bar! It’s a fun, interactive, and delicious way to enjoy the game and feed a crowd.
Enjoy the game, and happy eating!
What do you like to serve for a big party or for game day?! I’d love to hear!
Parent Club says
What a great spread! Inspirational for game day get togethers!
Tabitha Blue says
Thank you!!! It the perfect way to serve both big and small gatherings!!! 🙂
Tia says
Such a great idea and a frugal way to use up leftovers too.
Tabitha Blue says
So true!!! Yes… a great way to do a leftover dinner night 🙂 Good tip!
David @ Milk Frother Judge says
lovely dish, and yes, potato is a comfort food for many, including me , 🙂
Anthony says
So yummy at first sight. I love potatoes so much and will surely try to make this for my family. Thank you so much for sharing this post!
Tabitha Blue says
Thanks so much!!!! It’s definitely a great way to feed a lot of people… so many different tastes, flavors AND it’s easy to prepare!
Kathy says
I love potato bar. This is very delicous recipe Tabitha.
I will try it soon !