No matter which football teams fans support, they're likely to get hungry watching the big game. Dips, small bites and other finger foods are staples for viewing parties because they can be eaten easily in front of the big screen. Utilizing slow cookers to prepare these items may create more time for other preparations, and slow cookers can keep meals warm on the buffet table.

Hosts may consider may Pepperoni Pizza Dip With Breadstick Dippers or Big Al's Hot and Sweet Sausage Sandwich from "Crockpot 365 Year-Round Recipes." They can adjust the recipes as needed for the game day crowd.

Pepperoni Pizza Dip With Breadstick Dippers

Serves 8

1 jar or can (14 ounces) pizza sauce

3/4 cup chopped turkey pepperoni

4 green onions, chopped

1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 cup (4 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese

1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened

Dippers

1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated breadstick dough

2 teaspoons melted butter

2 teaspoons minced fresh Italian parsley

1. Combine pizza sauce, pepperoni, onions, olives, and oregano in a 2-quart slow cooker. Cover; cook on low 2 hours or on high 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until mixture is hot.

2. Stir in mozzarella and cream cheese until melted and well blended. Serve with warm breadstick dippers.

3. For dippers, bake breadsticks according to package directions. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley.

Big Al's Hot and Sweet Sausage Sandwich

Makes 8 to 10 servings

4 to 5 pounds hot Italian sausage links

1 jar (26 ounces) spaghetti sauce

1 large Vidalia onion (or other sweet onion), sliced

1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded and sliced

1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

Italian rolls, cut in half

Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)

1. Combine sausages, spaghetti sauce, onion, peppers, and brown sugar in slow cooker. Cover; cook on low 8 to 10 hours or on high 4 to 6 hours.

2. Place sausages in rolls. Top with vegetable mixture. Add provolone cheese, if desired.

Tip: Instead of large Italian rolls, use slider buns or medium kaiser rolls to stretch the sausage mixture further and make it easier to eat while watching the game.