How to throw a cheap super bowl party

Big events don’t have to equal big spending. A little food, some libations, a few decorations, and a TV, and you’ve got the makings for a great super bowl party. If you’re having friends over to watch the Ravens battle the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII, here are some ideas that can help you keep the price tag under control.

1. Consider a potluck. Prepare a few items yourself, then ask everyone to bring their favorite football food. It you send your invitations electronically, you can ask people to reply to the list to avoid duplication (although you really can’t have too many hot wings, can you?).

2. Use cheap recipes. Some of my favorite football foods are chili, nachos and potato skins, none of which are expensive to make (see recipes below).

3. Ask guests to BYOB. Beer and other alcoholic drinks are the most expensive part of most super bowl parties, so ask guests to bring their own. You supply the ice and a cooler.

4. Skip fancy decorations. Although it may be fun to have paper plates/bowls/cups with your team logo, they can be a bit pricey. You’ll save money if you instead buy those items in solid colors. If you’re a San Francisco fan, get red and gold (or red and white). If you’re a Ravens fan, get purple and gold (or purple and white). Alternate colors when you set them out, so when you look around the room, you’ll see both.

5. Don’t waste money on entertainment. Between the game, the halftime show, and the commercials, you should have all the entertainment you need. If you want a little extra, play some super bowl trivia. You can get cheap miniature trophies or ribbons for the winners at most party stores.

Cheap super bowl recipes:

Chili

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• One can of chili beans
• 1 packet chili seasoning
• One tomato (diced)
• Diced onion to taste
• Additional chili powder to taste

Brown ground beef/drain. Put all ingredients in a crock pot or on the stove. Add 1-2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer to desired consistency. Serve with crackers and shredded cheese.

Nachos

• One brick of Velveeta
• Picante sauce to taste (I use about ¾ of a medium jar per medium brick of Velveeta)

Melt above together in a crock pot or on the stove. Serve with tortilla chips.

Potato skins

• 4 potatoes
• Bacon bits
• Mexican or cheddar cheese

Bake potatoes in microwave. Cut lengthwise into quarters. Scoop out centers, leaving ¼ to ½ inch of potato in skin. Deep fry skins until golden brown. Top with cheese and bacon bits. Microwave until cheese melts (1-2 minutes). Serve with sour cream.

Here are some more cheap and easy super bowl snacks.