Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on a classic open-faced sandwich, transforming it into bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for any occasion. With layers of turkey, juicy tomatoes, a rich homemade cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, these sliders are sure to impress your guests. They are ideal for game day gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation makes this dish stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and can be made in just 35 minutes.
- Flavor Explosion: The mix of turkey, tomatoes, and creamy cheese sauce delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer for parties or as a main course for dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Comfort Food Classic: Incorporating traditional Kentucky flavors makes this dish warm and inviting.
Tools and Preparation
To make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking for your sliders and makes serving easy.
- Whisk: Helps create a smooth cheese sauce without lumps.
- Saucepan: Perfect for melting butter and combining ingredients efficiently.
Ingredients
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders take a traditionally open-faced sandwich and turn it into an appetizer with turkey, tomatoes, homemade cheese sauce, and bacon.
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 the 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: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sliders bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare 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 continuing to whisk.
- Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, white cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Slice the King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally.
- Place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Layer sliced turkey over the rolls followed by tomato slices.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the turkey and tomatoes.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top.
Step 4: Bake
Brush melted butter mixed with garlic salt over the top of the sliders. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.
For a Casual Gathering
- Buffet Style: Set up a buffet where guests can serve themselves. This allows everyone to customize their sliders with extra toppings.
- Platter Presentation: Arrange sliders on a large platter and garnish with parsley for an appealing look.
Accompanying Dips
- Creamy Ranch Dip: Serve with a side of ranch for a cool contrast to the warm sliders.
- Spicy Mustard Sauce: A tangy mustard sauce adds a nice kick and pairs well with turkey.
Drink Pairings
- Sweet Tea: A classic Southern drink that complements the flavors of Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders perfectly.
- Local Beer: Pair with a light ale or lager to enhance the savory taste of the sliders.
How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To make your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders truly unforgettable, follow these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Make Your Cheese Sauce Smooth: Whisk continuously while heating the cheese sauce to avoid lumps.
- Don’t Skimp on Bacon: The more crispy bacon, the better! It adds texture and flavor to each bite.
- Toast the Rolls Lightly: A quick toast on the rolls before assembling helps prevent sogginess.
- Serve Immediately: These sliders are best served warm right out of the oven for maximum enjoyment.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Pair your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders with these delightful side dishes for a complete meal.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to hearty sliders.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness to your plate.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans offer a comforting complement.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances out the richness of the sliders nicely.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy chips paired with zesty salsa bring an extra layer of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the cheese sauce: The homemade cheese sauce adds creaminess and flavor. Don’t rush this step; take your time to ensure it’s smooth.
- Using stale rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls are key for the best texture and taste. Always check the expiration date before using.
- Overcooking the bacon: Crispy bacon enhances flavor but can become too tough if overcooked. Aim for a balance of crispiness without burning.
- Ignoring seasoning: Proper seasoning elevates the dish. Taste as you go, adjusting salt and spices to your preference for a delicious outcome.
- Not letting them cool before serving: Allow sliders to cool slightly after baking. This helps the cheese sauce set, making them easier to serve.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds or until heated through.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on medium heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use other meats in Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Yes! While turkey is traditional, you can use chicken or ham as alternatives for different flavors.
How do I make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders healthier?
Consider using whole grain rolls, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like spinach or peppers.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders without baking them and store them in the fridge overnight. Bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What sides pair well with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
These sliders go great with salads, potato chips, or vegetable platters for a well-rounded meal.
How do I reheat leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Refer to the reheating instructions above to enjoy them warm again!
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are not just delicious; they’re versatile too! Perfect for parties or family dinners, they can be customized with various ingredients. Whether you stick with turkey or try something new, these sliders will surely impress your guests. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a scrumptious twist on the beloved open-faced sandwich, transforming it into delightful bite-sized appetizers. Perfect for any gathering—be it game day, potlucks, or family dinners—these sliders combine tender turkey, fresh tomatoes, a rich homemade cheese sauce, and crispy bacon. Each bite is a flavor-packed experience that will leave your guests raving. Easy to prepare in just 35 minutes, these sliders effortlessly blend comfort food with Southern charm, making them an absolute must-try for food lovers!
Ingredients
- 1 package (12-count) King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 1 pound sliced turkey breast
- 2 medium fresh tomatoes
- 1/4 cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (245 g) whole milk (room temperature)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup (113 g) white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/4 cup (25 g) parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8–10 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add whole milk while whisking continuously. Stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg, cheddar, and parmesan until melted.
- Assemble the sliders: Slice rolls in half horizontally. Layer turkey and tomatoes on the bottom halves in a baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over the top and sprinkle with bacon.
- Brush tops with melted butter mixed with garlic salt; cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (82g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
