and super bowl It’s now Sunday and hosts across the United States are sorting out their shopping lists and making final preparations for game day.

Many partygoers gathering with friends and family look forward to the following typical offerings: Chicken wings, pizza, Nachos, pigs in blankets and lots of beer.

But Super Bowl Sunday — the first major hosting event for many since New Year’s Eve — may hold some surprises this year.

Ranking of America’s Most Popular Hot Sauces — INSTACART Reveals Top Picks

At least one chef observed some trends She expects this to impact game day menus.

Kathryn Neidus, executive chef at StoneWater Golf Club in Ohio, told Fox News Digital that people are getting more creative with their dips.

As viral trends influence menus for 2026 gatherings, some Super Bowl party hosts are rethinking classic game-day fare, insiders say. (iStock)

“Think chipotle dip, hot bacon pickle dip, or crab rangoon dip,” she says.

“There’s also more experimentation with what they’re paired with—from wonton chips to air-fried vegetables.”

Click here to subscribe to our lifestyle newsletter

Flavoring your dip doesn’t have to be unhealthy. She cited cottage cheese and greek yogurt As a lighter option than sour cream without sacrificing flavor, they fit in with the health trends of recent years.

Super Bowl snacks are getting more creative this year, with chefs noticing more experimentation with dips and shareable dishes. (iStock)

Grilled sliders are a long-time party favorite and a game-day must-have, and Niedus says they allow room for creativity.

The chef cites grilled Italian sliders, buffalo chicken sliders, prosciutto and Swiss ham with caramelized onions and BBQ Brisket Sliders as a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance.

Click here for more lifestyle stories

“They’re also highly customizable, with the option to finish the bread with herbs, cheese or a blend of seasonings to add flavor and presentation,” she adds.

side dishes It’s also possible to get a game day upgrade. Party hosts tend to stick to familiar classics while elevating them with “thoughtful upgrades,” Nedous said.

Dips are taking center stage on Super Bowl menus as hosts look for simple, shareable, crowd-pleasing dishes. (iStock)

This might include adding “caviar, crispy ham, bright vinaigrette or salsa, and added crunch or spice,” she suggests.

Test yourself with our latest lifestyle quiz

“People also continue to focus on lighter, healthier options, including dishes like buffalo cauliflower or avocado fries.”

One chef told Fox News Digital that “people also continue to focus on lighter, healthier options” as opposed to the run-of-the-mill dishes pictured above. (iStock)

Last but not least, drinks are a must for a Super Bowl party – says Niedus Ingredients cocktail is required.

Click here to get the Fox News app

“(It’s) an easy and convenient option, especially when paired with fun, thoughtful decor,” she says.

Organizers are adding thoughtful garnishes to batch cocktails to elevate Super Bowl beverages. (iStock)

“Sparkling wine alternatives are also gaining traction as hosts look to offer something different alongside traditional cocktails.”