Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders offer a delicious twist on the classic Louisville favorite, packing all the rich, creamy, and savory flavors into bite-sized sandwiches. These sliders are perfect for game day, parties, or a fun dinner option. With layers of turkey, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a decadent Mornay-style cheese sauce on soft slider buns, they’re a crowd-pleasing indulgence that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

ingredients

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders 10 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

slider buns (Hawaiian rolls or similar)roasted turkey breast (sliced)crispy bacon (cooked)roma tomatoes (sliced)unsalted butterall-purpose flourmilksharp white cheddar cheeseParmesan cheesegarlic powderonion powderDijon mustardWorcestershire sauceblack pepperfresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.

Stir in shredded white cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Slice the slider buns horizontally (keeping the tops and bottoms connected) and place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.

Layer with turkey, tomato slices, cooked bacon, and spoon the cheese sauce generously over the top.

Place the top halves of the slider buns on top.

Brush with melted butter and cover loosely with foil.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 5-10 minutes until golden and heated through.

Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 sliders.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders 11 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Use ham instead of turkey for a different take.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for extra heat.

Try smoked Gouda or Gruyère in place of cheddar for a richer flavor.

Serve open-faced like the original Hot Brown for a plated version.

Add sautéed spinach for a little green and extra nutrition.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual sliders for about 30 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them in advance and bake just before serving.

Is the cheese sauce necessary?

It’s a signature part of the Hot Brown, but you can use a store-bought cheese sauce in a pinch.

Can I use deli turkey?

Yes, but roasted or carved turkey gives better texture and flavor.

Are these sliders spicy?

No, but you can add hot sauce or cayenne if you like a kick.

Can I freeze them?

It’s best to freeze before baking; wrap tightly and bake from frozen, adding 10-15 extra minutes.

What’s the best bread to use?

Soft slider buns or Hawaiian rolls work perfectly.

Do I need to toast the buns first?

Not necessary—the oven baking crisps the tops and melts everything nicely.

Can I add more vegetables?

Sure, try spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even avocado slices.

Are they kid-friendly?

Definitely! The cheesy, savory combo is a hit with kids.

What side dishes go well with these?

Coleslaw, potato salad, or chips are great companions.

Conclusion

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a mini version of a beloved Southern classic, delivering bold, indulgent flavors in a convenient, party-friendly package. With creamy cheese sauce, tender turkey, and crispy bacon, these sliders are sure to steal the show at your next gathering or family meal. Give them a try and bring a little taste of Kentucky to your table.

Print
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Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

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  • Author: chefisraa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes (plus sauce prep)
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sliders 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Bake, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

Mini open‑faced sandwiches featuring roasted turkey, smoky bacon, and rich Mornay sauce, baked until bubbly and golden—a perfect upscale appetizer or party bite.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 slider buns or split dinner rolls
  • 8 oz roasted turkey breast, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all‑purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
  2. Place bottom halves of slider buns in a baking dish, toasted or untoasted per preference.
  3. Layer each bun with turkey slices and top evenly with chopped bacon.
  4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth; cook 3–4 minutes until thickened.
  6. Stir in Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; simmer 1 more minute, then remove from heat.
  7. Spoon Mornay sauce generously over each turkey‑bacon topped bun.
  8. Bake for 10–12 minutes until sauce is bubbly and edges lightly golden.
  9. Top with bun halves, garnish with chives, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra richness, use half‑and‑half instead of milk.
  • Substitute Monterey Jack or Gruyère for Parmesan.
  • Slider buns can be pre‑toasted for added texture.
  • Make sauce ahead and reheat slightly before baking.
  • Perfect for brunch, game‑day or cocktail hour.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 sliders
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

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