Tailgate Season, Brats, and Game Day Spreads

Football season means tailgate season, and on this episode of Meat & Greet, Myke Stittsworth breaks down the ultimate game day spread. Brats are the star, but there's a lot more to a great tailgate than just throwing sausages on a grill.

Myke talks through his favorite game day setups — from the right grill setup for a parking lot to how to feed a crowd without spending all day cooking. If you're heading to a game (or just watching from home), this episode has your menu covered.

Game Day Playbook

• Best brats for tailgating — and how many to buy per person
• Beyond brats: burgers, smoked sausage, and snack sticks
• Setting up a portable grill for maximum output
• Make-ahead items that travel well

About Meat & Greet

Myke Stittsworth joins KBUN Sports Radio's High Noon every week from Stittsworth Meats in Bemidji, MN.

🎧 Listen to this episode on KBUN | Browse all Meat & Greet episodes

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🍖 Recipe: Stittsworth Brat and Beer Cheese Dip

A game-day crowd-pleaser featuring Stittsworth smoked brats, melty cheese, and spicy beer. Serve with crackers, bread, or pretzel crisps.

Ingredients

• 6 Stittsworth Smoked Brats, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 oz Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup dark beer (or ale)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and cayenne pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

1. Sauté the sliced Stittsworth Smoked Brats in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and cook onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the beer and scrape up any browned bits. Simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Lower heat to medium-low and add shredded cheddar and Gruyère, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne.
6. Return the sautéed brats to the dip and stir to combine.
7. Transfer to a slow cooker or fondue pot set to warm, and garnish with fresh chives.

Pro Tip: Stittsworth smoked brats are seasoned boldly, so they stand up beautifully to sharp cheese and beer. Brown them hard to develop a flavorful crust before adding to the cheese dip.