If ever there was a dish that could turn heads at every party or potluck, it’s the Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders. Imagine all the decadence and Southern charm of the classic Kentucky Hot Brown, magically transformed into irresistible bite-sized sandwiches — perfect for sharing (but so good you might not want to). Creamy cheese sauce, juicy turkey, smoky bacon, ripe tomatoes, and pillowy rolls come together for pure crowd-pleasing delight. Whether you’re cheering during derby season, hosting a game-day bash, or just craving a taste of Louisville nostalgia, these sliders are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders is that every ingredient is easy to find, yet each plays a starring role. From buttery rolls to sharp cheddar, each component brings its own delicious personality, making every bite satisfyingly rich and layered.

Slider rolls or small dinner rolls (12): Soft, fluffy rolls soak up all that melty cheese sauce while holding everything together.
Sliced roasted turkey breast (¾ pound): Choose high-quality deli turkey or leftover roast for savory flavor and juiciness—this is the meat of your slider!
Cooked bacon (8 slices, cut in half): Adds smoky, salty crunch that makes every bite better.
Shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Provides bold flavor and glorious melt-factor in both the sauce and as a topping.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Start your cheese sauce the right way—rich and creamy.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the cheese sauce for that luscious, silky texture.
Whole milk (1 cup): The base of your sauce, creating the creamy consistency you need.
Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Brings a touch of savory warmth to the sauce.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances flavors and brings everything together.
Black pepper (⅛ teaspoon): A touch of pepper for subtle heat and depth.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Sharp, salty, umami-packed flavor boost in the sauce.
Roma tomatoes (2, thinly sliced): Juicy and bright—adds color and fresh, tangy flavor.
Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps the tops of the rolls turn golden and delicious while baking.
Dijon mustard (½ teaspoon): Just the right amount of tang and kick, mixed into the buttery topping.
Worcestershire sauce (¼ teaspoon): Brings savory, umami richness to the finishing touch.
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, vibrant sprinkle that makes everything pop.

How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Step 1: Make the Cheese Sauce

Set a saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for about a minute until it bubbles; this helps get rid of any raw flour taste and sets the stage for a silky sauce. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly so it blends smoothly. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then keep whisking until the sauce thickens just a bit—this takes about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan and half of the sharp white cheddar. Once it’s all melted and beautifully creamy, remove from the heat and set aside while you prep the slider layers.

Step 2: Layer the Slider Rolls

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it lightly with nonstick spray or a hint of butter so nothing sticks. Arrange the bottom halves of your slider rolls snugly across the bottom. This creates a soft, sturdy base ready to catch all the melty fillings.

Step 3: Build the Filling

Layer the turkey slices generously over the bottom half of the rolls so every bite is packed with flavor. Next, artfully layer the tomato slices across the turkey, and then nestle pieces of bacon on top—the more evenly spread, the better. Pour the warm, homemade cheese sauce over this mountain of deliciousness, letting it seep into every nook and cranny. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar over everything for an extra dose of cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Add the Top Rolls and Butter Glaze

Carefully place the top halves of the rolls over the filling. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, then brush this over the tops of the rolls. This buttery glaze is what gives Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders that gleaming, golden finish and a hint of tangy flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated 350°F oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5–7 minutes—just long enough for the tops to turn beautifully golden and for the cheese to be bubbling and irresistible. If you like, finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley right before serving. Serve these sliders warm and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Garnishes

Your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders will look gorgeous straight out of the oven, but a finishing touch of freshly chopped parsley brings a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. For a Derby-inspired vibe, you can also add a few finely diced chives or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a pinch of smoked paprika or a few sliced green onions also work beautifully.

Side Dishes

Because these sliders are so rich and cheesy, they really shine when paired with bright, crisp sides. Serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, a crunchy slaw, or even some fresh vegetable sticks. If you want to keep things Southern-inspired, a scoop of creamy coleslaw or a cool cucumber salad will balance out the warmth and decadence of the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes a party! Arrange your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders on a big wooden board, with toothpicks for easy grabbing and lots of garnishes scattered around. For a fun twist, try serving each slider in a parchment square or a mini basket. If you’re prepping for a fancier get-together, a tray lined with fresh herbs or colorful napkins will display them with the flair they deserve.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders left (which isn’t likely), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better the next day as the sauce soaks into the rolls, ensuring every bite remains savory and tender.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the sliders to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep beautifully for up to a month. For best texture, freeze them before baking with the topping. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 12–15 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works in a pinch, but the rolls won’t be quite as crisp. For the tastiest results, pop them under the broiler for a minute at the end to revive that signature golden top.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Shredded or sliced roasted chicken works just as well in these sliders. The Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are all about flavor, and any roasted poultry will soak up that delicious sauce and pair perfectly with the bacon and cheese.

Can these sliders be made ahead for a party?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders (just don’t add the buttery topping quite yet), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. When ready, brush on the butter mixture and bake as directed. Fresh, hot sliders right out of the oven without the stress!

What’s the best way to keep sliders warm for serving?

If you’re entertaining, keep the sliders on a warm platter covered with foil, or store them in a low oven (around 200°F) until your guests are ready to dive in. This keeps the cheese perfectly melty and the rolls deliciously soft.

Can I use store-bought cheese sauce to save time?

Absolutely, especially if you’re making a big batch. Just choose a good-quality white cheddar or Parmesan-based sauce and warm it up before assembling. The homemade sauce adds extra love, but nobody will complain when the sliders disappear in seconds.

How can I make these Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders spicy?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or layer in some thinly sliced pickled jalapeños with the turkey and bacon. You can also use a pepper jack cheese for a little extra kick while staying true to the slider’s spirit.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re feeling inspired to whip up a batch of these unforgettable Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or just treating yourself, these sliders spark joy with every cheesy, savory, crispy, creamy bite. Gather your favorite people, serve them up warm, and get ready for rave reviews—this might just become your new favorite crowd-pleaser!

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic hot brown sandwich, featuring layers of turkey, bacon, cheese sauce, and tomatoes on slider rolls, perfect for parties or game day.

Ingredients

Scale

Slider Rolls:

12 slider rolls or small dinner rolls, sliced in half

Filling:

¾ pound sliced roasted turkey breast
8 slices cooked bacon, cut in half
1½ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
2 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced

Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Glaze:

2 tablespoons melted butter
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Garnish:

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in Parmesan and half the cheddar cheese until thickened.
Assemble Sliders: Arrange bottom halves of rolls in a baking dish. Layer with turkey, tomatoes, bacon, and cheese sauce. Top with remaining cheddar and roll tops.
Glaze and Bake: Brush rolls with butter, Dijon, and Worcestershire. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until golden.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.