Burgers or hot dogs at the ‘perfect’ tailgate? America decides

This research could help your next tailgating adventure go from good to great.

OnePoll and Hormel Foods teamed up to poll 5,000 Americana — 100 people each from all 50 states — about how they use food and friends to create the most fun event possible. 

One key to success is designating one person to play “grill master” throughout the day. While 29% of respondents crowned the most desirable role at the tailgate, 25% opted for “side dish taster,” and 23% chose “game hype man.”

Other desirable tailgate duties include cup refiller (18%) and food server (18%).

When it comes to the menu, 84% of people believe that everyone in attendance should bring at least one item. If someone does not contribute, 46% of respondents said that person is less likely to be invited to the next shindig.

The best foods to bring to a tailgate were found to be burgers (66%), hot dogs (56%) and chips (52%).

“Just like sports fans are passionate about rituals around their favorite teams and game day, people have their go-to tailgating foods,” said Deanna Brady, executive vice president of Retail for Hormel Foods. “Burgers and hot dogs are popular staples, but wherever you are and whatever you cook, it’s perfect tailgating food if you love it.”

Of course, those traditional dishes vary by region. People in the Midwest and West prefer hot dogs over burgers, such as Arizona (66% vs 58%) and Washington (60% vs 55%). Meanwhile, 32% of Mainers insisted that pasta salad be present at that cookout, compared to just 12% of respondents overall.

And while the outdoor grill reigns supreme as the most popular cooking method (67%), crockpots have also become a surprise hit (38%), especially in colder climates like South Dakota (56%). But in Hawaii? Not so much (19%).

Not anything goes. Most people said to leave ice cream and popsicles (41%), pies (24%), and salads (23%) at home though, likely due refrigeration requirements.

Etiquette be damned, say 63% of participants — who admitted they’d choose to bring their favorite dish regardless if other people like it.

On the other hand, forgetting to bring plates (70%), napkins (54%) and cups (46%) are agreed to be the ultimate party fouls.

Whatever you do, choose wisely: Nearly three-quarters of respondents agree that the menu can make or break a tailgate.