The Smoking Musket Tailgate Menu: Chasing Tornados

One of my favorite movies as a kid was Twister. I don’t know why. At all. Probably had a lot to do with cows being spun around in a tornado. But one scene that amazes me as an adult is when the crew storm Aunt Meg’s farmhouse and eat a massive steak and eggs breakfast.

I’m not sure how or why Aunt Meg had enough steak and eggs to feed an ever-growing crowd of hungry storm chasers, friends and family, but she masterfully throws down with a cast-iron skillet on every burner.

Yes, I’m aware this movie takes place in Oklahoma, but Texas sees more tornadoes per year than any state by a long shot. Also, steak and eggs just feels like a Texas breakfast.

Baylor comes to Morgantown for a noon kickoff Saturday, so I personally feel like a steak-inspired breakfast is perfect for Texas teams. Though we still aren’t tailgating at Mountaineer Field, this breakfast is perfect for a gameday at home, or to bring to a friend’s party.

Steak and Eggs Casserole

Now, you’re more than welcome to grill some steaks and fry eggs in a skillet over the grill. Honestly, that’s a great breakfast in itself. But I think this steak and eggs casserole will take this breakfast to another level.

The recipe calls for leftover steak. You should just grill your favorite sirloin or flank cut on your grill before assembling the casserole. I’d suggest undercooking your steak so it doesn’t get too overcooked and tough while cooking the casserole.

Unspecified “fresh vegetables” are required. Obviously, diced onion and bell pepper would be best, but consider using a fresh jalapeño or red chili to add some kick to this breakfast. Also add fresh cilantro to the mix. The fresh vegetables will add a punch to the eggs.

Strawberry-Brie Waffle Bites

A bite-sized shareable is perfect for any gameday party. Start up your waffle iron and sharpen your knife. Slice strawberries about ¼ inch thick and cut the brie to match the length and thickness of the strawberry. Cut each waffle square individually. Now, stack them up brie, strawberry, waffle, and stick with a toothpick.

You can serve these alongside maple syrup either to pour over top or use it as a dip.

Sangria Mimosas

We all love mimosas for brunch. They’re a great companion to savory brunch foods. But how many different ways can you alter a mimosa? A lot, to be honest, but this Sangria Mimosa adds a fruity, boozy hit to your normal mimosa.

Pineapple, strawberries and orange are great fruits together, but you could also add mango. You could use fresh fruits or use a bag of frozen fruit and let it thaw out in the triple sec and fruit juices.

To serve, spoon some of the fruit into a glass, pour your bubbly to your liking, then add the fruit juice mix on top.