5 Touchdown Snacking Ideas from a Chef Who Cooks for Athletes

Learn how to graze like a pro on game day with these delicious ideas.

Football season is about to kick off (sorry, we had to), and that means it’s time for game-day snacks. For some expert ideas, we went straight to a pro: Manwell McLean, also known as Chef Hoppie, who has cooked for sports stars like NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Allen Hurns and more. 

Chef Hoppie hasn’t missed a Cowboys home game yet—and when they’re out of town, he hosts viewing parties at his house for friends. He always serves the classics, like vegetable trays, chips and fruit, but he doesn’t stop there. The next time you’re hosting, don’t hold back; serve up one (or all) of these delicious ideas from Chef Hoppie, all of which start with a Heluva Good! Dip.

For the diehard fan: Update classic spinach dip by using Heluva Good! White Cheddar Bacon Dip as a base. Just add spinach and cream cheese for a fresh spin on this party favorite. “I’d serve it with tortilla chips,” suggests Chef Hoppie. “Quick and simple.” And also delicious! 

For the fan who’s always turning up the volume: For guests who like their games action-packed and their eats flavor-filled, Chef Hoppie suggests making a batch of beef sliders stuffed with chopped bell peppers and onions. Top with Heluva Good! Bodacious® Onion Dip and serve on sweet rolls. 

For the fan who gets a little heated: Give guests a double hit of spice with jalapeño poppers stuffed with Heluva Good! Jalapeño Cheddar Dip. “It’s one of my favorites,” says Chef Hoppie.

For the fan who’s just there for the dip: Chef Hoppie knows when to leave a good thing alone. He loves to pair Heluva Good! French Onion Dip with thin and crispy potato chips.