Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic open-faced sandwich. These sliders transform the traditional recipe into a fun and shareable appetizer, perfect for gatherings. With layers of turkey, juicy tomatoes, creamy homemade cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, this dish is sure to impress at any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual dinner, these sliders stand out for their rich flavors and easy preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of white cheddar and parmesan cheeses creates a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the turkey and bacon.
- Versatile Dish: Serve these sliders as appetizers for parties or enjoy them as a main course. They fit any meal occasion!
- Crowd Pleaser: With savory ingredients like turkey and bacon, these sliders are sure to satisfy guests of all ages.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the cheese sauce and assemble the sliders ahead of time for quick baking before serving.
Tools and Preparation
To make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: This is where your sliders will come together and bake to perfection. A good-sized dish ensures even cooking.
- Saucepan: Essential for making your cheese sauce. A non-stick saucepan helps prevent sticking and burning.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing the cheese sauce smoothly without lumps, ensuring a creamy texture.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (245 g) whole milk (room temperature)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup (113 g) white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup (25 g) parmesan cheese (grated)
For Assembling Sliders
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 package (12-count) King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 1 pound turkey breast (leftover or thickly sliced deli turkey)
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced)
- 8-10 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Step 1: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour until smooth.
- Gradually add whole milk while continuously whisking until thickened.
- Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, white cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Sliders
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, mix melted unsalted butter with garlic salt and chopped parsley.
- Slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Layer slices of turkey breast on top of the bottom half of the rolls.
- Add tomato slices evenly across the turkey.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the tomatoes.
- Pour the prepared cheese sauce generously over all layers.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on.
Step 4: Bake
- Brush the tops with remaining garlic butter mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Now you have delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or family dinners. Their rich flavors and easy-to-handle format make them a hit with everyone. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your slider experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad made with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved parmesan for a classic pairing.
Offer Dipping Sauces
- Spicy Mustard: Adds a tangy kick that complements the savory flavors of the sliders.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy option that balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
Complement with Crunchy Snacks
- Potato Chips: Classic salty chips provide a satisfying crunch alongside the sliders.
- Veggie Platter: Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery served with dip for a healthier option.
Serve on a Festive Platter
- Tiered Serving Tray: Arrange sliders on a multi-level tray for an eye-catching presentation at parties.
- Wooden Board: Use a rustic wooden board to give an inviting feel to your serving setup.
How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To make your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders truly memorable, consider these helpful tips.
- seasoning: Enhance flavors by increasing the garlic salt or adding smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Quality ingredients: Use fresh turkey and high-quality cheeses for better flavor and texture.
- Customize toppings: Add jalapeños or avocado slices for extra flair and taste.
- Toast the rolls: Lightly toast the Hawaiian rolls before assembling for added crunch and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Serving side dishes with your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a favorite and add a satisfying crunch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sliders.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory beans complement the sliders perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness to your plate.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer a nutritious alternative to regular fries.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, a few common pitfalls can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Overcooking the sauce: If you cook the cheese sauce too long, it can become grainy. Stir gently and remove it from heat just before it thickens.
- Using cold milk: Cold milk can cause lumps in your sauce. Always use room temperature milk for a smooth texture.
- Skipping the fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds flavor and color. Don’t leave it out; it’s essential for a bright taste.
- Not layering ingredients properly: Layering is key for even distribution of flavors. Ensure turkey, tomatoes, and bacon are evenly spread over the rolls.
- Ignoring resting time: Letting sliders rest allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step; it enhances the overall taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- These sliders can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders that you might find helpful.
What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic open-faced sandwich made with turkey, tomatoes, cheese sauce, and bacon baked into slider rolls.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sliders and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.
What kind of cheese works best?
While white cheddar is traditional, you can also use Monterey Jack or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
Are there any vegetarian options for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Absolutely! Substitute turkey with roasted vegetables or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders combine comfort food with party-friendly appeal. They are perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or sauces to suit your taste!
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic open-faced sandwich, transforming this beloved Southern dish into bite-sized wonders perfect for any gathering. Featuring layers of tender turkey, fresh tomatoes, and crispy bacon, all smothered in a rich homemade cheese sauce, these sliders deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a family dinner, these sliders offer both comfort and convenience with their easy preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (245 g) whole milk (room temperature)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup (113 g) white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup (25 g) parmesan cheese (grated)
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 package (12-count) King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 1 pound turkey breast (leftover or thickly sliced deli turkey)
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced)
- 8–10 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, then gradually adding milk until thickened. Stir in seasonings and cheeses until smooth.
- Mix melted butter with garlic salt and parsley. Slice rolls horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Layer turkey slices, tomatoes, and crumbled bacon over the rolls. Pour cheese sauce on top before placing the top half of the rolls back on.
- Brush with garlic butter mixture, cover with foil, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
