It’s tailgating time! That all-important warm weather tailgating season is upon us. Thank goodness! No more parkas in the parking lot. The boys of summer are back!

So, are you watching some Major League baseball on TV? Have you been to a game yet? Do you plan to? It’s time to play ball!

Well, whether you’re going to a game or enjoying it in the comfort of your own domain, we all can enjoy those baseball games a lot more if we’re well fed. And to me, that’s the most enjoyable part. Yeah, I like the sport part. The game is a blast. But isn’t tailgating a sport all unto itself?

I think so. And as a sport, it’s got some rules – just like baseball!

Now, to be a winner at tailgating we’ve got to be prepared. So let’s go over a tailgating checklist so we do this thing right.

1. Have the right tools. Literally, that can mean spatulas and steak knives. But it also can mean having the right steak recipes in hand. Nothing too elaborate. But definitely high on flavor.

2. Bring your A game. If necessary, get some individual coaching. Like some grilling steak tips from a pro. Watch videos. Read articles. Ask a chef.

3. Choose the right steaks. Quality is important. A high quality steak is the first ingredient in a great tailgating party.

4. Make sure everyone is covered. Have enough food for everyone – but also the right food for everyone. Know your audience.

5. Have fun! That’s what it’s really all about!

With this checklist in mind, you can plan out a fantastic tailgating party. Baseball season is in full swing so let’s have some fun!

This tailgating thing is serious business so let’s give it the preparation it deserves! Your stomach will thank you!

What do you like to eat when you’re tailgating?

Are you the quick and easy type? Steakburgers all around with chips and condiments and beverages.

Or do you like to go crazy with something a bit more time-intensive like, say, Kansas City strip steak? Or filet mignon?

I’m cool with that. And I’ll bet your friends are, too.

Maybe pair those steaks with sides that will knock their socks off like gourmet mashed potatoes or asparagus or twice-baked potatoes?

Either way, I’m game. (No pun intended. Okay, the pun WAS intended.)

Sometimes you just want to whip up something you know will be tasty and will please just about everybody – in a short amount of time.

Enter burgers.

But other times, you want to experiment. Play around with your food. Try new things. Mix it up a bit.

That’s when you break out the steaks and make it a MEAL!

Who says your tailgate party can’t be gourmet at the same time? There are no rules here, except that the food must be delicious.

And, believe me, you’ll get no complaints either way. It’s just a matter of how you’re feeling that day.

Are you feeling burgerish or steakified?

Maybe it depends on the game. A pretty routine game that your team is sure to win perhaps calls for some good old-fashioned burgers.

But an important rivalry? Or a playoff game? That might necessitate you pulling out all the stops. Bring on the filets, the strip steaks, the T-bones, the ribeyes.

Your team needs you – and you need to be fueled properly.

So, do you take tailgating as seriously as me? Is there a lot of thought put into your menu or do you just grill it and go?

Whichever method you choose, I think we’re on the same team – TEAM TAILGATE!

There are some great games going on this time of year. And we’ve got to have great food to go along with them.

If it’s not a federal law, it should be.

My go-to has always been steakburgers during the game. But why not try smaller sliders with a twist like caramelized onion and gorgonzola sliders or applewood bacon and cheddar sliders?

And then there are steaks when you really want to get serious. Boneless ribeyes are my favorites, but there are so many delicious cuts to choose from – why not grill up a variety?

Hickory smoked baby back ribs are a great finger food that’ll satisfy for sure. Or try a beef brisket or all beef hot dogs. You really can’t go wrong with any of those.

Check out these tailgating options, even if you’re “tailgating” in your own living room. You’re sure to find plenty of game day food ideas that will whet your appetite!