The big game may be the biggest night in football, but it’s also the biggest night in snacking. Wings, dips, sliders, and enough tortilla chips to feed an entire offensive line take over kitchen counters everywhere. And while the food deserves its moment in the spotlight, the real MVP is what’s in your glass. The right pairing can take your party from “pretty good” to championship level. Whether you’re hosting a full house or keeping it low-key, keep reading for some winning game day snacks and beer pairings.
Winning Game Day Snack and Beer Pairings
1. Classic Chicken Wings + IPA
Let’s start with the undisputed king of game day snacks: wings. Whether you’re team buffalo, garlic parmesan, or sweet heat, wings need a beer that can stand up to their bold flavor. Enter the IPA. The hop bitterness cuts right through the fried wing’s richness and balances spicy sauces beautifully. Citrus-forward or West Coast IPAs work exceptionally well with buffalo sauce, while a hazy IPA pairs nicely with sweet or tangy glazes. It’s a tried and true matchup for a reason – this game day snack and beer pairing never fumbles.
2. Nachos & Queso + Mexican Lager or Amber Ale
Nachos are a full-contact snack. You want a beer that refreshes without overpowering the flavors of cheese, meat, jalapeños, and all the toppings. A crisp Mexican lager fits the bill. This brew lets the salty chips and creamy queso shine while keeping things light and clean. Nachos loaded with beef or chorizo? An amber ale adds just enough malt sweetness to complement the savory richness without weighing you down. This game day snack and beer pairing is easy-drinking, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for grazing all game long.
3. Sliders + Pale Ale
Sliders are small but mighty. From classic cheeseburgers to BBQ pulled pork, these handheld heroes pair best with a versatile beer. A pale ale hits that sweet spot with balanced malt, approachable hops, and enough flavor to keep things interesting. It perfectly complements beef, pork, and even veggie sliders without stealing the spotlight. Think of it as the utility player of your beer lineup.
4. Chips & Guacamole + Session IPA or Wheat Beer
Guac deserves better than just any beer. It needs something refreshing that won’t overpower the fresh flavors of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and herbal cilantro. For this game day snack and beer pairing, a session IPA brings light hop character without too much bitterness. A wheat beer, on the other hand, offers a smooth, slightly citrusy profile that pairs beautifully with lime and herbs. Both options keep things light so you can go back for “just one more chip” without missing a play.
5. Pizza + American Lager or Pilsner
Pizza is the ultimate big game safety net. It’s reliable, satisfying, and loved by all. Whether it’s pepperoni, supreme, or veggie, this game day snack pairs best with crisp, clean beers. American lagers and pilsners cut through the grease, enhance salty flavors, and refresh your palate between bites. They’re easy to drink, making them ideal for a long game and a halftime show.
6. Sweet Treats + Stout or Porter
When it’s time for dessert, it’s time for something dark and cozy. Brownies, cookies, and chocolate-covered anything are game day snacks that pair perfectly with stouts and porters. With roasted malt flavors, hints of coffee, chocolate, and caramel, these brews are made for sipping with sweet snacks. It’s a dessert and beer all in one, and a strong way to close out the night – win or lose.
Build Your Winning Lineup at The Growler Guys
The best part about game day snack and beer pairings? You don’t have to choose just one. At The Growler Guys, you can mix and match your growlers to build a craft beer lineup that covers every snack on the table. Swing by before the big game kicks off, chat with our certified Beer Stewards, and stock up on crowd-pleasing favorites and bold new finds. When the snacks are hot, and the beer is fresh, everyone wins!
Reader Interactions