Once a pre-game activity reserved for die-hard football fans, today’s tailgate parties have transcended sports, becoming one of America’s most beloved and anticipated traditions. In fact, according to a 2024 survey by Talker Research and The Finnish Long Drink, tailgating is now seen as the highlight of the sports season, with over 80% of participants saying they look forward to the tailgate experience more than the game itself.
Aside from good company, it should come as no surprise that more than half of the survey respondents (57%) say that food is the star of tailgating. However, a legendary Superbowl-type meal doesn’t just happen. Whether you’re flipping burgers, simmering chili, or baking decadent desserts, having the right cookware can make all the difference in creating the perfect tailgate spread. So, below, we’ll cover four cookware must-haves that every tailgater should have in their kitchen arsenal
Cast iron skillet
If you don’t already own a cast iron skillet, consider this your sign to get one. This kitchen workhorse can handle anything you throw at it—crispy bacon, perfectly seared steaks, golden cornbread, you name it. Unlike regular pans, cast iron pans like the tried-and-true Classic Cast Iron Skillet from Lodge hold heat like a champ, giving you that even cook and next-level flavor.
Tailgating in a parking lot? No problem. Cast iron works just as well over an open flame as it does on a grill or camp stove. As we mentioned in a previous post, cast iron pans work great for whipping up pancakes and eggs even when you’re roughing it. And the best part is that cast iron lasts forever. Take care of it, and this skillet will be with you for many tailgates to come.
Dutch oven
Chili, pulled pork, or a bubbling pot of queso—if your tailgate spread needs low-and-slow cooking, a Dutch oven is a game-changer. For this, look no further than the Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron 5.5-Qt Round Dutch Oven. This humble piece of cookware is a top pick among pros and amateurs for a reason. It’s built to hold heat, cook food evenly, and lock in all those delicious flavors.
With its heavy-duty lid and unbeatable heat retention, this pot lets you simmer your secret-recipe chili to perfection while you kick back with a cold one. Plus, it’s durable enough to transition from stovetop to searing-hot ovens, making it a versatile option for any tailgater who takes their cooking seriously.
Grill baskets
Have you ever lost a stray piece of shrimp to the grill grates? Tragic. That’s why grill baskets are a must. They keep all your smaller or delicate foods—like veggies, seafood, or bite-sized meats—secure while still getting that flame-kissed flavor.
Made from stainless steel or non-stick materials, these baskets from brands such as OXO and Weber make flipping and turning food a breeze. No more chasing runaway mushrooms or watching your carefully seasoned shrimp disappear into the coals. Aside from preventing food from slipping through the grates, they also provide even heat distribution, which ensures perfectly cooked results every time. Just toss everything in, give it a shake, and you’re golden.
Insulated food carrier
No tailgate is complete without a reliable way to transport and keep food warm (or cool, depending on the dish). Without insulated food carriers, you run the risk of developing a foodborne illness from dishes sitting out in the temperature danger zone between 40 degrees F and 140 degrees F. As a rule of thumb, you should keep cold food chilled at or below 40 degrees F, and keep hot food at or above 140 degrees F.
To help with this, consider getting insulated food carriers that feature multiple layers of insulation and secure lids to prevent spills. The Juvale Thermal Insulated Casserole Carrier, for instance, is made with high-quality aluminum foil and a layer of foam padding. This ensures that hot dishes arrive at the tailgate just as fresh and delicious as when you left home.
When it comes to tailgating, having the right cookware is just as important as having a great grill. Whether you’re slow cooking a hearty stew, searing the perfect steak, or transporting your signature dish, these must-have tools ensure that your tailgate meal will be a hit every time.