OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Super Bowl Sunday has arrived, bringing with it the much-anticipated showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. While millions will tune in for the big game, a new survey suggests that for many, the true star of the show isn’t the football—it’s the food.
A recent survey of 2,000 U.S. adults over 21, conducted by Talker Research in December 2024 on behalf of antacid brand TUMS, found that while 48% of Americans care about which team takes home the Lombardi Trophy, 1 in 4 are more invested in the game-day spread than the final score. In fact, 54% believe the food can make or break the entire Super Bowl experience.
Food vs. Football: A Winning Matchup
The survey also revealed that for 38% of Americans, the food is more exciting than the Super Bowl commercials, and 47% even rank it above the much-hyped halftime show. With six in 10 people planning to host or attend a Super Bowl party, it’s no surprise that many take their game-day menu seriously—over half of hosts start planning at least a month in advance.
So, what’s on the menu? The top three must-have Super Bowl foods, according to respondents, are:
- Buffalo and hot wings (49%)
- Barbecued meats like brisket, ribs, or BBQ chicken (37%)
- Seven-layer dip (36%)
Other fan-favorite snacks include nachos, chicken tenders, pizza, and classic desserts like cookies and brownies. And while veggies might make a token appearance, they’re often paired with dips like guacamole or salsa.
The Ultimate Super Bowl Snack Lineup
According to the survey, these are the top 10 foods Americans consider essential for a Super Bowl party:
- Buffalo and/or hot wings – 49%
- Barbecue (brisket, ribs, BBQ chicken, etc.) – 37%
- Seven-layer dip – 36%
- Pizza – 30%
- Chicken tenders and/or nuggets – 30%
- Nachos – 30%
- Cookies – 25%
- Brownies – 24%
- Buffalo chicken dip – 24%
- Potato chips – 24%
So, whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just here for the snacks, one thing is clear—Super Bowl Sunday is a feast for all.