Introduction
Remember leg warmers, big hair sprayed sky-high, and rocking out to your favorite tunes on a boombox the size of a small car? The 1980s were a decade of bold fashion, groundbreaking music, and, yes, unforgettable food! If you’re planning a totally tubular bash, throwing an eighties themed party is a surefire way to transport your guests back to a time of neon colors, iconic movies, and a whole lot of fun. And what’s a party without the perfect grub?
Why is 80s themed party food such a fantastic choice for your next get-together? It’s all about the nostalgia, the vibrant colors, and the often delightfully simple recipes. Many of the foods associated with the decade are easy to prepare, making your party planning a breeze. Get ready to crank up the Journey, break out the shoulder pads, and dive into a world of delicious retro eats! This guide is your ultimate playbook for creating an eighties themed party menu that will have your guests saying “Cowabunga!”
Appetizers and Snacks: Let’s Get This Party Started!
No awesome party is complete without a mouthwatering selection of appetizers to kick things off. Let’s start with snacks that are easy to munch on and get people mingling. Think of those familiar, comforting, and downright delicious flavors that defined the 80s.
Classic 80s Dips
Spinach dip in a bread bowl is an absolute classic. This creamy, savory dip served in a hollowed-out round loaf of bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, and various seasonings creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and addictive. The bread bowl presentation adds a touch of rustic charm to your party spread. Consider using a sourdough loaf for a more tangy flavor or a pumpernickel loaf for a bolder taste. This is not just a dip; it’s a statement.
If you’re looking for an even simpler alternative, you can never go wrong with French onion dip and ruffled potato chips. This dynamic duo is a staple of gatherings and requires minimal preparation. The creamy, savory dip paired with the salty crunch of the chips is a match made in snack heaven. For an extra touch, try making your own French onion dip from scratch.
Finger Foods That Pop
Beyond dips, a selection of finger foods that pop with flavor and fun is a must. A cheese ball, covered in chopped nuts and served with an assortment of crackers, is the epitome of eighties party food. It’s a classic for a reason—it’s easy to make, looks impressive, and tastes delicious.
Cocktail weenies, also known as Little Smokies, are another incredibly easy and satisfying option. Simply simmer them in a sauce of barbecue sauce and grape jelly (yes, really!) for a sweet and savory treat that’s hard to resist. The sweetness of the jelly complements the smokiness of the sausages perfectly.
Deviled eggs are another party staple. A quick search on the internet offers thousands of options to make a memorable plate of deviled eggs.
Creative Presentation
When it comes to presentation, think bright, bold, and fun. Arrange your snacks on tiered trays to create a visually appealing display. Use colorful, neon-colored serving dishes to add a touch of eighties flair to your table. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures for a truly retro vibe.
Main Courses: Big Flavors, Big Hair!
While appetizers are great for getting the party started, you’ll need some heartier fare to keep your guests fueled up for all the dancing and fun. Let’s move on to some main courses that capture the essence of eighties cuisine.
Pizza Rolls a 80s Classic
Pizza Rolls are a childhood favorite that still holds up today. These bite-sized pockets of pizza goodness are quick, easy, and satisfying. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The best part is, they require minimal effort, leaving you more time to focus on other aspects of your party.
Casserole Crazy
Casseroles were a staple of eighties family dinners, and they’re perfect for feeding a crowd. Tuna noodle casserole is a quintessential comfort food that’s both creamy and flavorful. It’s made with tuna, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, peas, and topped with crushed potato chips for a satisfying crunch. If you want to get creative, try adding some chopped celery or onions for extra flavor.
Another crowd-pleasing casserole option is macaroni and cheese. This classic dish is always a hit, especially with kids. You can keep it simple with just cheese and macaroni, or add some extra ingredients like bacon, ham, or vegetables.
Sandwiches and Sliders
Sandwiches and sliders are another great option for a casual eighties themed party. Sloppy Joes are a messy but fun choice. The sweet and savory ground beef mixture served on a bun is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Be sure to provide plenty of napkins!
Ham and Swiss sliders are another easy and delicious option. Simply layer ham and Swiss cheese on slider buns and bake until the cheese is melted and gooey. You can add a touch of Dijon mustard or horseradish for extra flavor.
Presentation Tips
When serving your main courses, keep the presentation fun and festive. Use colorful serving dishes, such as melamine plates and bowls, to add a touch of eighties flair. Consider setting up a buffet-style spread so guests can help themselves.
Desserts: Sweeten the Deal (and the Decade!)
No eighties themed party is complete without a selection of decadent desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into some sugary treats that will transport your guests back to the era of big hair and even bigger desserts.
Jell-O is King
Jell-O was king in the eighties, and it’s a must-have for your party. A Jell-O mold is a visually stunning and surprisingly easy dessert to make. Layer different flavors and colors of Jell-O in a mold and let it set overnight. When you unmold it, you’ll have a beautiful and festive dessert that’s sure to impress.
Jell-O pudding cups are another simple and satisfying option. These individual servings of creamy, sweet pudding are perfect for easy handling. You can even add some whipped cream and sprinkles for an extra touch of fun.
Cake Pops
Cake pops are another sweet option, are perfect for decorating in a fun and colorful way that will catch the eye of your guests.
Rice Krispie Treats
Rice Krispie treats are a classic dessert that’s always a hit. These chewy, marshmallowy squares are easy to make and can be customized with different toppings. Try adding some M&Ms, chocolate chips, or sprinkles for extra flavor and fun.
Tips for a Sweet Display
When it comes to displaying your desserts, create a colorful and eye-catching table. Use bright tablecloths, balloons, and streamers to add a touch of eighties flair. Consider setting up a dessert bar with different toppings and sauces so guests can customize their own treats.
Drinks: Quench Your Thirst Like It’s 1985
No eighties party is complete without a selection of refreshing drinks to quench your guests’ thirst. Let’s take a trip down memory lane with some classic beverages that defined the decade.
Soda Pop Nostalgia
Soda pop was a staple of eighties culture, and there are plenty of nostalgic options to choose from. If you want to be funny consider picking up some New Coke if you can find it. The perfect gift for the connoisseur.
Punch It Up
Wine coolers were another popular beverage in the eighties. Bartles & Jaymes were a classic brand, and they came in a variety of flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own wine coolers at home.
Grown-Up Options
Cocktails with Midori were also a popular choice. This bright green melon liqueur was a staple of eighties cocktails, and it added a touch of sweetness and vibrancy to any drink.
Presentation
When serving your drinks, use colorful cups and straws. Add fun garnishes like gummy candies, fruit slices, or umbrellas to add a touch of whimsy. Consider setting up a drink station with different mixers, garnishes, and ice so guests can create their own cocktails.
Presentation and Ambiance: Set the Scene!
Food is only part of the equation. To truly transport your guests back to the eighties, you need to create the right atmosphere.
Neon is Your Friend
Neon is your best friend. Use neon tablecloths, plates, and napkins to create a vibrant and eye-catching display. You can even add neon food coloring to some of your dishes, like Jell-O or frosting.
Music is Key
Music is absolutely key. Create an eighties playlist with iconic artists like Madonna, Prince, Michael Jackson, and Def Leppard. Be sure to include a mix of upbeat dance tunes and power ballads to keep your guests entertained.
Decorations
Decorations are another important element. Hang posters of eighties movies and music artists. Scatter Rubik’s Cubes and cassette tapes around the party area. Consider setting up an eighties themed photo booth with props like sunglasses, bandanas, and inflatable guitars.
Conclusion
Planning an eighties themed party menu is all about embracing the fun, the nostalgia, and the vibrant flavors of the decade. From classic appetizers like spinach dip and cheese balls to hearty main courses like tuna noodle casserole and sloppy joes, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Don’t forget the iconic desserts like Jell-O molds and Rice Krispie treats, and be sure to quench your guests’ thirst with refreshing beverages like soda pop and wine coolers.
So, crank up the music, break out the leg warmers, and get ready to throw a totally tubular eighties themed party that your guests will never forget! What are some of your favorite eighties themed party food ideas? Share them in the comments below! Let’s keep the retro vibes alive!
