During this time of year, it is hard to navigate the plethora of activities to choose from on any given day. On the Gulf Coast, we are trying to hold on to the last shreds of Summer, before the cool breezes settle in. We have started moving out doors, earlier in the evenings to enjoy the end of the day haze. The afternoon that calls for a cocktail or two with friends. The porches have started to be decked out with Mums, pumpkins and assorted Fall trimmings.
I am still forming my private rebellion against the ‘end of Summer’, and attempting a paddle every afternoon that is possible. There is no better way to end a work day than to paddle out and watch the sun set. The quiet serenity on the water, with the sun settling down and the water lapping, is very calming. If you haven’t tried to paddle on a Stand Up Paddleboard, dont wait. I encourage you to do so immediately. If your on the Gulf Coast, contact John for a lesson at www.fairhopepaddleboard.com.
You may always count on Game Day, during this season. In the South, we sure love our football , no matter who you cheer for. Whether it’s NFL or College or high school, there is a game that requires attention. If not from us, at least from someone we love. A few of us have students that aspire to attend one or two of those Colleges that sport a National Championship or two. Who’s counting?
If not our children, our men are wrapped up in the sport as well. A couple of my friends will yell with the best of them. I am happy to join the party and socialize with the game in the background. I have had the pleasure of attending college games and it is electric. The tail-gaters have as much or maybe more fun than the ticket holders. It’s a party in and out the stadium.
This Game Day Dip will not let you down. It is easy to make ahead and bake as needed for your cheering section. This dip is great served with your favorite crackers, corn chips or pita chips. Fairhope Brewery has a new lager coming out called A Beer Divided. I bet their beer will pair well with this dip. We will have to check it out.
Shout out to Alexa for Queen. Let’s start with ” We are the Champions”
Hot and Easy Game Day Dip
Serves 8-10
2 cup Conecuh Spicy Sausage, sliced and chopped
2 Teaspoon Olive Oil
1 cup Onion, chopped
1 cup Bell Pepper, chopped
2 Garlic Toes, minced
16 Ounces Creme Cheese, room temperature
1 cup Gouda Cheese grated plus 1/4 cup reserved for top
1 Teaspoon Hungarian Paprika
1/2 Teaspoon Cayenne
1/2 Teaspoon Cracker Pepper
1 Sleeve Ritz Crackers
1 Tablespoon Butter, melted
Preheat over to 325 degrees.
In a large saucepan, cook sausage and drain. Set sausage aside.
In same pan, wipe out most of excess oil and add the onion, bell pepper and garlic. Saute on low, until tender. Stir as needed.
In a large bowl, combine sausage, creme cheese, Gouda cheese, onion, bell pepper, garlic and spices. Stir until ingredients are blended well. Spoon into glass baking dish.
In a zip lock bag, add the ritz crackers. Zip bag and crush. Pour in melted butter and mix together well. Sprinkle the cracker crumbs on top of creme cheese mixture evenly and lightly pat down.
Sprinkle the reserved gouda cheese on top of cracker crumbs. Bake until hot for 20-25 minutes Look for a delicious golden top. Serve immediately.
Can I make this like a day in advance and just cook it off?
This recipe may be made ahead of time and then heated in oven prior to serving. If you know that your going to make ahead and serve later, add buttered crackers just before baking.
thank you!!! Will be great for sitting around the campfire and sharing with friends!
My personal “in-house critic” said that the recipe for the “Sausage and Friends Game Day Dip” was his favorite. You will have to let me know what you think.