Derby Day Hot Brown Sliders

Derby Day isn't just about the horses—it's about the celebration, the tradition, and the flavors that bring people together. These Derby Day Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful nod to Kentucky's iconic Hot Brown sandwich, reimagined in perfect party-size portions. Picture tender turkey, crispy bacon, and a velvety Mornay sauce all tucked into soft slider rolls, then baked until golden and bubbling. Whether you're hosting a Derby Day bash or simply craving a taste of Southern comfort, these sliders deliver all the indulgence of the classic with the convenience of handheld bliss.

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The beauty of these sliders lies in their layers. The foundation starts with soft rolls—Hawaiian or brioche work wonderfully—that soak up just enough of the creamy sauce without becoming soggy. The turkey provides a savory, satisfying base, while crispy bacon adds that essential crunch and smoky depth. Fresh Roma tomatoes bring a bright, juicy contrast, and the Mornay sauce—a silky blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and cream—ties everything together with its rich, nutty flavor. A final sprinkle of Parmesan on top creates a golden, bubbling crust that makes these sliders irresistible.

Ingredients

• For the Sliders: 12 soft slider rolls (e.g., Hawaiian rolls or brioche), 2 cups cooked turkey breast (sliced or shredded), 8 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked crisp and cut in half), 1 cup Roma tomatoes (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• For the Mornay Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• For Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Make the Mornay Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Cook, whisking continuously, until thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Rolls

Split the slider rolls horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.

Step 4: Layer the Fillings

Layer turkey evenly over the rolls, followed by tomato slices and bacon pieces.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the Mornay sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan.

Step 6: Top and Cover

Place the top halves of the rolls over the filling. Cover loosely with foil.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5–7 minutes, until tops are lightly browned and cheese is bubbling.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to a perfect Mornay sauce is patience and constant whisking. When you add the flour to the melted butter, keep stirring to prevent burning and ensure a smooth roux. Pour the milk and cream in slowly while whisking to avoid lumps. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it's ready. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more milk. For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and sharp white cheddar rather than pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's texture. Brushing the tops of the rolls with melted butter before the final bake adds extra richness and a beautiful golden color.

Varianten und Anpassungen

These sliders are wonderfully versatile. Substitute ham for turkey if you prefer a sweeter, saltier profile—it's a delicious twist that stays true to the Hot Brown spirit. For a lighter version, use turkey bacon and reduce the amount of heavy cream in the Mornay sauce. You can also make these sliders vegetarian by replacing the turkey and bacon with roasted mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes. If you're serving a crowd with different tastes, prepare half with turkey and half with ham. For extra indulgence, add a layer of caramelized onions beneath the turkey or mix some Dijon mustard into the Mornay sauce for a subtle tang.

Serviervorschläge

These Hot Brown Sliders are ideal for Derby Day gatherings, but they're equally at home at brunch, game day parties, or holiday appetizer spreads. Serve them straight from the oven while the cheese is still bubbling and the rolls are warm. Pair them with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness, or offer sweet potato fries and pickles on the side. For beverages, a crisp Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully, while a Kentucky bourbon cocktail—like a Mint Julep or an Old Fashioned—honors the Derby Day tradition. If you're serving these as part of a larger spread, consider offering pimento cheese dip, deviled eggs, and a fresh fruit platter for a complete Southern feast.

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Whether you're a Derby Day devotee or simply a fan of comfort food done right, these Hot Brown Sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They capture all the essence of Kentucky's beloved open-faced sandwich in a format that's easy to share, easy to eat, and impossible to resist. So gather your friends, put on your best hat, and let these sliders bring a taste of Southern hospitality to your table. From first bite to last, they're a celebration worth savoring.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for these sliders?

Soft slider rolls like Hawaiian rolls or brioche provide the ideal balance of sweetness and softness to hold the layers without overpowering the flavors.

→ Can I substitute turkey with other meats?

Yes, ham makes a great alternative for a different flavor profile while keeping the slider moist and savory.

→ How is the Mornay sauce prepared?

It starts with a butter and flour roux, then milk and cream are whisked in until thickened, followed by sharp cheddar, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper for a rich, smooth sauce.

→ What is the best way to serve these sliders warm?

Bake the assembled sliders covered with foil, remove foil near the end to allow the tops to brown and cheese to bubble, then serve immediately.

→ Are there garnish suggestions to enhance these sliders?

Chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh, bright finish to balance the richness of the sauce and bacon.