10 Dysphagia Recipes for the Big Game

Dysphagi Diet food spread for football game

Have no fear, your gameday menu is here!

*Note: Recipes may need modifications to fit dietary needs.

Gameday celebrations can be a stressful time for those challenged by dysphagia. Whether you’re throwing your own big game party or attending someone else’s, it can be difficult to make sure there are plentiful food and drink options that meet your needs. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. These big game foods and drinks will make sure that you feel like part of the party with some festive dishes that are easy to make and safe for a variety of IDDSI Levels. And whether your team is playing or not, these dishes will give you a cause for celebration.

Table of Contents

Root Beer Float

dysphagia-friendly root beer float in glass with red straw

This dysphagia-friendly take on an ice cream parlor classic pairs well with a hot dish as you settle into your big game celebration.

Variations available for IDDSI Levels 2 or 3

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Meets IDDSI Levels 2 or 3 Super Slammer Cocktail

dysphagia-friendly super slammer cocktail in a mason jar glass

Looking to take your gameday watch party up a notch? This cocktail recipe features gin, whiskey and amaretto to serve as the perfect sidekick while you prepare for kickoff.

Variations available for IDDSI Levels 2 or 3

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Cocktail Meatballs

dysphagia-friendly cocktail meatballs on toothpicks

What better to pair with your Super Slammer drink than some cocktail meatballs? These tasty appetizers are packed with flavor and are an easy-to-make addition to your gameday spread.

Meets IDDSI Levels 5-7

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Pizza Bites

dysphagia-friendly pizza bites on white plate with footballs

When a full pizza’s too much but you still want that cheesy, savory taste, pizza bites are here to save the day. These appetizers are sure to be a crowd favorite!

Meets IDDSI Levels 5-7

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Empanadas

Dysphagia-friendly empanadas on white plate

A traditional Mexican dish with a dysphagia-friendly twist! These empanadas are a great big game snack that allow plenty of room for customization on the filling to suit your liking.

Meets IDDSI Levels 5-7

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Chili

Dysphagia-friendly bowl of chili with sour cream on top

No big game watch party is quite complete without an important gameday staple: chili! This hearty recipe will warm up your winter and give you a reason to cheer, even if your team’s not playing.

Meets IDDSI Levels 5-7

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Buffalo Chicken Burger

Dysphagia friendly buffalo chicken burger with bun on white plate

Add some heat to your gameday celebration with a tried and true football special, complete with a dysphagia-friendly recipe for the bun. Use your favorite buffalo sauce to make this dish as a mild or as spicy as you’d like!

Meets IDDSI Levels 5-7

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Hamburger

Dysphagia friendly hamburger on green plate

Enjoy a highly-customizable favorite that’s sure to get your watch party crowd on their feet. Add your favorite dysphagia-friendly toppings for even more flavor!

Meets IDDSI Levels 5-7

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Brownie Footballs

Dysphagia friendly brownie footballs on white plate

To really get in the gameday spirit, you need some football-themed snacks. These delicious desserts are great for the whole family and will add a festive twist to your spread!

Meets IDDSI Levels 4-7

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Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Cups

Dysphagia-friendly chocolate peanut butter cookie cups

This peanut butter cup with a twist is packed with rich flavor and is easy to make; no baking required! You can play around with different fillings (like caramel syrup or seedless jelly) for more flavor options.

Meets IDDSI Levels 4-7

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Now you’re ready for kickoff! Sit back, relax and enjoy a great game, great food and drinks, and great company.