How to Gourmet Your Game Day

Getting ready to host the gang at your house to watch the big game? Give your game day a gourmet twist, starting with the game day packages from Doris and then making sure your buns, toppings and sides meet the high quality, gourmet burgers and meats you’ve chosen.

Here are a few ways to set a new standard for your game day spread.

Beyond Basic Buns

A classic sesame bun is standard, and we won’t tell you not to use them as long as they’re fresh. However, we will urge you to explore the bakery and bread aisle before grabbing that old, tried-and-true option.

Brioche buns are a rich and tender vessel for burgers. They’re soft but dense and have an eggy, buttery flavor that complements the meat and cheese. Ciabatta rolls offer another tasty alternative to regular burger buns.

For something most of your guests won’t be expecting, slice some English muffins in half and toast them in melted butter in a large skillet. The muffins don’t have as much volume as regular buns, but they soak up flavor and can provide a nice crunch.

Elevated Toppings

Everyone expects to see the usual choice of cheese, lettuce, sliced onions, ketchup, mustard and pickles. In addition to the basics, set out some homemade or store-bought toppings and condiments.

Help your guests choose what they want by arranging the toppings in groups. Try pesto, mozzarella and arugula (pictured above); match sauteed mushrooms with Swiss cheese; pair a creamy goat cheese with caramelized onions; or let your guest make a “breakfast” burger with fried eggs, bacon and a slice of Vermont white cheddar.

For condiments, pick up or try making garlic aioli, tomato jam or a favorite barbecue sauce.

Super Sides

Taking your sides to the next level can be as simple as going for a bag of gourmet potato chips over the brand you normally buy, or you could even try your hand at making your own.

If you want to cater to a healthier lifestyle, offer a Greek salad to contrast with the main dishes.  or grab your favorite seasonal vegetables and throw them on the grill. Alternatively, you can toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast them in the oven.

Baked potatoes make regular appearances at barbecues, and you can add a gourmet twist by creating a baked potato bar with an array of toppings that allows guests to choose their own toppings, from cheese to pancetta.

We’ve offered a lot of choices here, but don’t feel like you need to do everything. If you want to gourmet your game day, start with a few things you can do differently and see if you like them.