Instead of biting your nails and ordering takeout on election night, gather your nearest and dearest for a viewing party with a whole lot of comfort foods. Watching the votes get tallied with friends, family and a bowl of soothing mac and cheese or lasagna just may help take the edge off as you wait to find out which presidential candidate will win. From fast appetizers and easy mains to soothing desserts, here are 10 delicious election night party recipes to try.
Appetizers
Ham and melted cheese is always a winning combination, and the poppy seeds add a nice little crunch. These insanely easy to prep sliders are completely addictive, thanks to the buttery, tangy, slightly sweet sauce drizzled on top.
RELATED: Where to vote, eat, drink and have coffee on Election Day
Save time by putting out a selection of breads and crackers, whipped feta and caponata, so that guests can make their own fun bites.
The room may be split but everyone will agree that this TODAY Food staff-favorite guacamole has the perfect ratio of ingredients.
Mains
Spicy Italian Sausage Lasagna
Ready in an hour, this classic lasagna will feed a crowd of viewers on the edges of their seats.
10-Minute Black and Kidney Bean Chili
This chili only takes 10 minutes to put together and it's wonderfully filling and comforting. It's a great dish to make if you're feeding lots of people, too, as it's no more complicated to make for 12 people than it is for two. Also, it requires almost no chopping, so you won't be in the kitchen for hours!
RELATED: 12 chili recipes that will warm you up from the inside
Let your party guests exercise the right to choose their own toppings for this super simple mac and cheese. Serve crispy chopped bacon, caramelized onions, crumbled goat cheese, roasted diced butternut squash and minced chives on the side so everyone can just make up his or her own bowl as he or she likes it.
Desserts
What's more comforting than cookies? A giant skillet cookie made with leftover Halloween candy. Just be sure to share even if you feel like you may need this one just for yourself.
RELATED: 9 cute, craveable red, white and blue party treats from Pinterest even you can make!
This is no time to hold back! Yea, democracy! Dig into these over-the-top brownies made with layers of rich chocolate brownie batter, creamy cheesecake and Oreos, America's favorite cream-filled chocolate sandwich cookies.
Vanilla Magic Cake with Chocolate Ganache
Whether or not your candidate wins the presidency, we can all use a little bit of magic in our lives. This otherworldly dessert's batter takes only 15 minutes to prep. As it bakes, the cake batter magically transforms into three layers: a rich, luxurious custard crust, a creamy center, and a light, delicate angel food cake topper.
Bonus:
Big batches are always ideal for a crowd, and this patriotic pour is just the right sip for an election night party. All you need is five ingredients: peach brandy, berry club soda, strawberries, blueberries and a spritz of bubbly wine.
RELATED: Election buzz: More cocktails for your viewing party