Tailgates Are Better With 33 Vegan Tailgating Ideas

Every tailgate has two goals: cheer for the team and make sure nobody leaves hungry. That’s where 33 vegan tailgating ideas step in to handle the second part. These options prove that game day spreads can be fun without leaning on the same old standards. Suddenly, the scoreboard isn’t the only thing worth bragging about.

Close-up of vegetable pizza with artichokes, mushrooms, zucchini, and red peppers on a baked crust, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegan Pizza. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Everyone loves a crunchy snack at a tailgate, and these are no exception. Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce bring a plant-based option to the table that feels just as hearty as traditional alternatives. They pair perfectly with a dipping sauce that adds a creamy twist. These will disappear from the snack table faster than you expect.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Best Vegan Chili

Close-up of a bowl of chili, topped with chopped cilantro, sliced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream. The chili contains beans, tomatoes, and other visible vegetables. — Best Vegan Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Nothing says tailgating like a pot of something warm and hearty. Best Vegan Chili offers a rich, meat-free option packed with everything you love about a classic chili. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for those cooler game-day vibes. A couple of bowls of this and no one’s missing what’s in a traditional chili.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Chili

Tofu Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with grilled tofu, diced carrots, peas, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of dark sauce, served on a red cloth. — Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Add a little variety to the spread with a dish from the wok. Tofu Fried Rice is one of those dishes that’s filling, easy to grab, and full of texture. It’s perfect for scooping onto your plate and enjoying while chatting with the crew. Plus, it holds up well even if it gets a little cool.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Chocolate Hummus

Not every tailgate snack needs to be savory, and this one proves it. Chocolate Hummus is a dessert-style dip that’s unexpected yet so crave-worthy. Serve it with fruits, crackers, or whatever you like, it’s versatile and works for everyone. It’s one of those options that bridges the gap between sweet and unique.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Hummus

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Wings are a tailgating staple, but this version flips it on its head. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings bring the heat and crunch you expect without the meat. They’re perfect for dipping and snacking, with just the right crisp in every bite. Even people who eat meat love these, so make extra.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Vegan Pumpkin Bread

A close-up of a sliced pumpkin loaf cake with white icing and pumpkin seeds on top, showing its moist and crumbly texture. — Vegan Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sometimes you need something baked to round out the table. Vegan Pumpkin Bread is one of those sweet options that feel like you’re indulging without overdoing it. It’s moist, lightly spiced, and pairs well with a hot or cold drink. Bring a couple of loaves because everyone will want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Bread

Vegan Tikka Masala

A skillet filled with chickpea and tofu curry in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. — Vegan Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bring some bold flavors to the spread with this one-pot dish. Vegan Tikka Masala offers all the layers of flavor you expect, but in a totally plant-based package. It’s rich, creamy, and feels like comfort in every bite. Serve it with some rice or bread, and you’ve got a winning tailgating option.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tikka Masala

Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Close-up of several roasted sweet potato wedges on parchment paper, garnished with chopped herbs. — Baked Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You can’t go wrong with something simple and hearty for a side. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges offer a perfect balance between soft and crisp. They’re easy to eat, perfect for dipping, and always a hit no matter the crowd. Plus, they feel like an upgrade to the fries everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Vegan Rasta Pasta

A close-up of penne pasta mixed with red and green bell peppers, onions, grated cheese, and sprinkled with chili flakes. — Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Want to bring a little Caribbean twist to your tailgate spread? Vegan Rasta Pasta is a great way to showcase bold, plant-based possibilities. It’s creamy, colorful, and feels like a dish that stands out. Whether hot or cold, this option holds its own on any tailgating table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

Vegan Sushi

Close-up of three sushi rolls filled with rice, avocado, and vegetables, served on a brown rectangular plate with a small dish of soy sauce nearby. — Vegan Sushi. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sometimes it’s cool to offer an unexpected option that catches folks off guard. Vegan Sushi is a fun and fresh dish that’s perfect for a grab-and-go snack. It’s light, clean, and matches well with any sauces you set out. Even people new to sushi usually end up going back for more.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sushi

Vegan Tortilla Chips

Close-up of crispy tortilla chips with a dollop of guacamole on top. — Vegan Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Chips are a must at tailgates, but this option adds a plant-based twist. Vegan Tortilla Chips are a crunchy, no-nonsense option that works with any dip you bring to the table. They’re freshly baked without anything artificial, making them a crowd favorite. Serve with guac, salsa, or even chocolate hummus.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tortilla Chips

Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You can’t go wrong with protein-packed blocks that everyone can enjoy. Baked Tofu delivers a satisfying texture that pairs well with anything on your spread. It’s versatile and works great as a main or side, depending on how you’re serving it. Make it once, and it’ll probably become your go-to for group gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

A wooden bowl of nacho cheese dip topped with sliced jalapeños, surrounded by tortilla chips on a plate. A checked cloth and a glass in the background. — Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy and smooth alternatives don’t get better for dipping or drizzling. Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe is a game-changer for those cheese lovers looking for a plant-based swap. It somehow balances both rich textures and bold notes that make it perfect for nachos or crackers. It’s like a no-brainer for any snacking situation.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Cashew Queso Recipe

Breaded Mushrooms

Appetizers never go out of style, and crispy little bites are always a hit. Breaded Mushrooms bring that crunchiness everyone grabs without thinking twice. You can make a batch of these and watch them disappear fast because they’re just that crave-worthy. Whether it’s dipping or eating solo, they never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Mushrooms

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onion, roasted red peppers, capers, almonds, and fresh herbs, served with a spoon. — Copycat Chipotle Sofritas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

People love big bowls or wraps, and this one has you covered every time. Copycat Chipotle Sofritas offers a hearty blend that feels fresh and homemade. You don’t need meat when this option is bursting with texture you can actually feel. It’ll have folks reaching back to build seconds and thirds for sure.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Cauliflower Nuggets

Crispy snacks that can double as crowd-pleasers are always a good idea. Cauliflower Nuggets hit that balance of crunchy outside and tender inside that’s hard to beat. You can munch on them solo or serve them with dips for an even better setup. These nuggets get devoured fast no matter who your crowd is.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Nuggets

Crispy Avocado Fries

Close-up of crispy, breaded Air Fryer Avocado Fries on a white plate. — Crispy Avocado Fries. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fries fans, here’s a new idea that’s always popular and still creative. Crispy Avocado Fries offer an unexpectedly bold twist on something everyone knows and loves. These fry alternatives bring a texture you can enjoy, all while mixing it up enough to keep it interesting. Once you start passing these around, they rarely last long.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Avocado Fries

Dairy Free Ice Cream

A gold spoon scoops a portion of creamy, pale vanilla ice cream from a glass bowl. — Dairy Free Ice Cream. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dessert doesn’t have to mean losing out on creamy dessert classics everyone loves. Dairy Free Ice Cream brings something worth having at the table for post-snack rounds. Whether you’re loading up a bowl or grabbing a cone, it’s a hit for all ages instantly. It’s just solid proof vegan doesn’t mean boring or missing options.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Potatoes truly are unbeatable for snacks, but here’s a crunchier alternative you’ll keep making. Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes hold up against any loaded topping you toss on them. Easy to eat and share, they work with any dipping sauce you’ve got handy. Before you know it, they’re always the first to go.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Dips honestly are the centerpiece to every get-together spread you’ll ever have. Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip perfectly fits the vibe with a creamy texture and a hearty mix. It’s scoopable, sharable, and you can count on people hovering where it’s served. Chips, bread, or veggies – this dip works across the board.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Egg Rolls

Snack platters need rolls that are good for hand-held bites and fast eating between plays. Egg Rolls always hit the mark for a crispy treat with no mess. They’re perfect for when you’re in the mood for something light yet crunchy enough to keep going back for. Add dipping sauces, and you’ve got a snack that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Guacamole

Dips are always the first thing to get attention, especially when they’re this good. Guacamole stays a classic for good reason and an absolute staple at any tailgate. It’s great on chips, paired with veggies, or even dropped onto other snacks. You’ll never head home with leftovers when this is on your lineup.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa Salad is a fresh, protein-packed option for any tailgate spread. It’s a great way to mix something healthy into the lineup while offering bold textures that everyone will love. This salad is a great staple side that pairs well with just about any main dish. You’ll want to serve it up with confidence as an easy crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of a vegan chocolate chip cookie on a piece of parchment paper, showcasing its delightful texture and rich chocolate chips. — The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s no better dessert for a tailgate than The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies. They have everything you’d want from a homemade cookie, just made plant-based. With their irresistible texture, they’re sure to disappear faster than you think. A sweet treat like this always keeps the energy going during any celebration.
Get the Recipe: The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Colorful vegetable spring rolls with carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers, served with peanut sauce. — Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A versatile and colorful option for everyone is Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls. These rolls are a visually appealing, hand-held snack made entirely of plants. They’re great for dipping, stacking, and munching while hanging with friends. You’ll love how convenient and filling they are at the next tailgate.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Ultimate Vegan Burger

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun. — Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Everybody loves burgers, and Ultimate Vegan Burger takes the classic tailgate must-have to a new level. This plant-based option is stacked perfectly with all the essentials, making it a standout. It’s hearty, mess-free, and filling enough to power you through the game. Grab one straight off the grill and get that perfect combo of texture and taste in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal

For a snack worth grabbing during halftime, try Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal. These soft, chewy treats bring in the perfect balance of fruit and oats in a cookie form. They’re portable and great for sharing, so you can enjoy them between conversations and team cheers. Whether it’s a dessert or snack, they’ll feel right at home on your table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Cookies with Oatmeal

Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

A skillet with melted cheese dip, garnished with dill. Celery and carrot sticks are on the side, next to a bowl of dipping sauce. — Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You can’t go wrong with dips like Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip for your tailgate. It has a bold kick to it while staying completely plant-based for everyone to enjoy. This dip is great smothered on bread or scooped with veggies and chips. It’s the perfect dish to keep near you during the big plays.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Nothing beats good finger food on game day. Vegan Chicken Nuggets are crispy, fulfilling, and perfect for dipping in your go-to sauces. They’re a great pick for kids and adults alike, and they don’t last long once they hit the table. Serve them up and watch people keep going back for more.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy dish with a spoon, likely consisting of mashed potatoes or a similar textured food. The mixture appears smooth and slightly chunky. — Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy and filling, Vegan Mac and Cheese is the go-to. This comfort food packs all the creaminess you’d expect without compromising on being plant-based. It’s rich enough to work on its own but also makes a great side dish at any tailgate. Pile it high on a plate for a meal you won’t regret.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Vegan Onion Dip

You’ll want to keep Vegan Onion Dip in the center of the snack table at all times. Smooth, savory, and perfect for dunking chips, it’s consistent in hitting the spot. This is one of those tailgate staples that seems simple but does a lot of heavy lifting. Everyone will appreciate it between bites of other snacks.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Onion Dip

Vegan Pasta Salad

A wooden bowl filled with bowtie pasta mixed with roasted zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and herbs. — Vegan Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A cold option that works well at tailgates is Vegan Pasta Salad. With a range of mix-ins added into every forkful, it’s more than just a side. It’s an ideal no-fuss option that holds up well once tossed together. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd no matter how many people show up.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad

Vegan Pizza

Crowd-pleasers like Vegan Pizza are always a win at tailgates. A plant-based version of the classic still delivers that cheesy, saucy slice everyone craves. Best part? You can add different toppings to suit all preferences. If you’re taking a few along, you might want extra because it’ll go fast.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza