If you are searching for the perfect crowd-pleaser that combines rich Southern charm and irresistible comfort food, look no further than the Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders – Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe. These mini sandwiches pack all the luxurious flavors of the classic Kentucky Hot Brown into bite-sized portions that are ideal for parties, game days, or casual gatherings. Imagine layers of tender roasted turkey, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and melty sharp cheddar, all drenched in a creamy, cheesy Mornay sauce and nestled into soft slider rolls. This recipe delivers a warm, delicious experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds and asking for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe has a specific role in creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. From the buttery slider rolls to the sharpness of the cheddar and the creaminess of the Mornay sauce, each element contributes to the ultimate Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders – Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe experience.
- 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian or brioche): Soft, slightly sweet rolls provide the perfect base and contrast to the savory fillings.
- 1/2 pound sliced roasted turkey breast: Tender turkey adds hearty, lean protein that is classic to the Hot Brown.
- 6 slices cooked bacon, cut in half: Crispy bacon provides smoky crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese: Sharpness adds depth and gooey texture in every bite.
- 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced: Fresh tomato slices add juiciness and a pop of color that brightens the dish.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used to create the roux that starts the luscious Mornay sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection without lumps.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds richness and smoothness to the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle warmth that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to keep the flavors lively.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami and adds a salty, nutty bite.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing): Keeps the slider tops golden and flavorful.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the butter with gentle aromatic notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch to the finish.
How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders – Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your sliders cook evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and presentation flawless.
Step 2: Make the Mornay Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbly but not browned. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and continue cooking for 1 minute, which removes the raw flour taste and creates a smooth roux. Slowly whisk in 1 1/2 cups of whole milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in ground nutmeg, salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese, and half of the sharp white cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and make the sauce luxuriously creamy. Once smooth, remove from heat to keep warm while assembling the sliders.
Step 3: Layer the Sliders
Place the bottom halves of your slider rolls neatly in the baking dish. Begin layering with a generous portion of roasted turkey breast, followed by fresh tomato slices. Add bacon halves atop the tomatoes for that crucial crunch, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over everything. This layering ensures that every bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and fresh.
Step 4: Add the Mornay Sauce and Top Rolls
Carefully spoon the warm Mornay sauce over the stacked ingredients to fully envelop the sliders with cheesy goodness. Then place the top halves of the slider rolls firmly over the sauce and fillings, readying them for the final baking step.
Step 5: Add Garlic Butter and Bake
Mix together melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley, and brush this aromatic mixture generously over the tops of the slider rolls. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to bubble. Then uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the tops are golden brown and irresistibly inviting.
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders – Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives elevates the appearance and adds a fresh herbal note to your sliders. A light dusting of paprika on top can add a touch of smoky color that looks stunning on the golden tops.
Side Dishes
Serve these sliders alongside crispy sweet potato fries, tangy coleslaw, or a simple mixed greens salad with a sharp vinaigrette. These sides complement the richness of the Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders – Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe without overwhelming their bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive party, arrange the sliders on a large wooden board with small bowls of mustard or spicy aioli for dipping. You can also skewer each slider with a decorative toothpick or cute flag to make grabbing one easy for guests and to add a fun, interactive vibe to your spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to three days. Make sure to cool them completely before storing to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep sliders longer, freeze them without the butter topping first. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. For a faster option, a microwave can be used, but be aware this might soften the bread slightly. Freshly reheated sliders still deliver incredible flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use deli turkey instead of roasted turkey breast?
Absolutely! Using deli turkey slices is a convenient shortcut that works well without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to choose a good-quality roasted turkey for the best taste.
What can I substitute for the cheddar cheese?
Sharp white cheddar is traditional, but you can swap it with Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free flour in the Mornay sauce and gluten-free slider rolls, you can adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet while maintaining the iconic flavors.
Can I add a spicy twist to these sliders?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the Mornay sauce will give the sliders a subtle, exciting kick that works beautifully alongside the creamy, cheesy components.
How can I make the sliders ahead for a party?
You can assemble the sliders completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate them overnight. When ready to serve, add the garlic butter topping and bake as directed. This makes party prep quick and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
The Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders – Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe is a celebration of Southern comfort food in a perfectly portable form. Whether you’re hosting friends, cheering on your favorite team, or simply craving a hearty and indulgent treat, these sliders deliver on every level. I can’t recommend making a batch (or two) soon enough—they truly transform any occasion into a feast worth remembering!
Print
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders – Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American (Southern-Inspired)
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delectable twist on the classic Southern hot brown sandwich, perfect for parties and game day. Featuring layers of roasted turkey, bacon, tomatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese, all smothered in a creamy Mornay sauce and baked to golden perfection on slider rolls, these sliders deliver rich, comforting flavors in a fun, bite-sized format.
Ingredients
Slider Ingredients
- 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian or brioche), sliced in half
- 1/2 pound sliced roasted turkey breast
- 6 slices cooked bacon, cut in half
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
Mornay Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (half from total)
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the sliders.
- Make the Mornay Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of whole milk and continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add ground nutmeg, salt, black pepper, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded sharp white cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat.
- Assemble the Sliders: Arrange the bottom halves of the slider rolls evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer them with sliced roasted turkey, thin tomato slices, halved cooked bacon, and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the Sauce and Top: Spoon the warm Mornay sauce evenly over the layered ingredients. Then place the top halves of the slider rolls over the sauced layers.
- Brush and Bake: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this flavorful mixture over the tops of the slider rolls. Loosely cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5 to 7 minutes uncovered until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve warm. These sliders make an excellent party appetizer or game-day snack that’s sure to impress your guests.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey or deli turkey slices if preferred to save time.
- For a spicy variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Mornay sauce for some heat.
- Ensure to not overbake to keep the sliders moist and avoid drying out the turkey.
- Substitute slider rolls with mini brioche buns if Hawaiian rolls are unavailable.
