LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- We are smack dab in the middle of the NCAA Tournament and whether or not your favorite team is still in competition, a good snack or two never hurt while you're watching the games!

America's CEO, Chief Entertaining Officer, Tim Laird visited WDRB Mornings on Monday to give us his inspiration on NCAA Tournament snacks.

Check them out below!

Bracket Buster Cocktail

Makes: 1 cocktail

In a rocks glass with ice, add:

  • 1 1/2 oz. Jefferson's Bourbon
  • 3 oz. ginger beer
  • Splash of cranberry juice

Stir and garnish with a gooseberry or lemon twist.

For an alcohol-free cocktail, simply omit the Jefferson's Bourbon.

Bacon and Pecan Pimento Cheese Ball

Makes: 3 cups

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz. grated sharp yellow cheddar (3 cups)
  • 12 oz. grated extra sharp white cheddar (3 cups)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise, such as Duke's
  • 1 (4 oz.) jar diced pimentos, drained
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecan pieces
  • 1/2 cup cooked and diced bacon (about 8 strips)
  • 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of cayenne paper
  • Pinch of celery seed
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Balsamic glaze, optional, for garnish

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cheddar, white cheddar, mayonnaise, pimentos, pecans, bacon, mustard, cayenne pepper, and celery seed. For a smoother mixture, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment and beat on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes. When the mixture is completely combined, taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

To serve: Form into the shape of a basketball or press into a pie plate and draw the basketball lines with balsamic glaze. Serve with round crackers.

Note: To toast pecans at home, preheat the oven to 325°F. Place the pecans on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, until the nuts begin to brown and become fragrant.

Bourbon Honey Mustard with Pretzel Bites

Add 1 tablespoon Jefferson’s Bourbon to 1 cup honey mustard, stir to combine. Serve with your favorite pretzels.

3-Point Meatballs

Buy your favorite meatballs (pork, beef, turkey, or plant-based) and serve them with a variety of dipping sauces such as:

  • Marinara
  • BBQ
  • Buffalo hot sauce
  • Teriyaki
  • Sweet and Sour
  • Honey Mustard
  • Blue Cheese Dressing

Note: Meatballs can be found pre-made and pre-cooked in the freezer section of your grocery store.

Slam Dunk Desserts

Buy frozen cream puffs and serve with chocolate, strawberry, and caramel dipping sauces.

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