Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic open-faced sandwich. These sliders combine turkey, fresh tomatoes, a creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon to create an irresistible appetizer that is perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or looking for a unique dish for a potluck, these sliders are sure to impress with their savory flavors and satisfying textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, these sliders come together quickly, making them perfect for busy days.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of melted cheeses, turkey, and bacon creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are great for parties, family dinners, or as a delicious snack during movie night.
- Crowd-Pleaser: They serve 12 people easily, ensuring there’s enough to go around without any fuss.
- Comfort Food with a Twist: Enjoy the classic flavors of the Kentucky Hot Brown in a fun slider form that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and easy serving of your sliders.
- Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the creamy cheese sauce without burning it.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a lump-free cheese sauce.
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 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: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth.
- Add kosher salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, white cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Sliders
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Place the bottom half in a baking dish and layer with turkey slices, sliced tomatoes, and crumbled bacon.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Brush melted butter mixed with garlic salt over the top half of the rolls.
- Place the top half on the sliders and cover with foil.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders warm from the oven!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders make for a delightful appetizer or a main dish. Their rich flavors and comforting textures will surely please any crowd. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your slider experience.
For a Casual Gathering
- Serve with simple sides like chips or veggie sticks for easy munching.
- Pair with dipping sauces such as ranch or BBQ for added flavor.
During Game Day
- Create a slider bar where guests can customize their sliders with extra toppings like jalapeños or different cheeses.
- Offer a selection of beverages, including beer or sweet tea, to complement the savory sliders.
At Family Dinners
- Present on a platter with fresh herbs for a beautiful display.
- Add a side of seasoned fries for a classic meal option that everyone loves.
For Special Occasions
- Garnish each slider with toothpicks for easy handling during parties.
- Serve alongside a light salad, such as coleslaw, to balance the richness of the sliders.
How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Perfecting your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish to new heights.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Make cheese sauce from scratch: Homemade cheese sauce adds creaminess that store-bought options can’t match.
- Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on the sliders while they bake to prevent burning the tops.
- Customize toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like avocado or sautéed mushrooms for unique twists.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Pairing side dishes with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options that complement their flavors perfectly.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet contrast and are easy to prepare in the oven.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings freshness and crunch that balances the richness of the sliders.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with turkey and cheese.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds texture and cuts through the creamy cheese sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, making your plate more balanced.
- Potato Chips: Simple and crunchy, potato chips offer an easy finger food option that everyone enjoys.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes make a big difference. Always choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Skipping the Cheese Sauce: The homemade cheese sauce is key to this recipe. Don’t skip it; it adds creaminess and richness that enhances the dish.
- Overcooking the Bacon: Crispy bacon is great, but burnt bacon ruins the sliders. Cook it just right and crumble it on top for perfect flavor.
- Ignoring Portion Sizes: These sliders are filling! Be mindful of how much you serve at once to avoid overwhelming guests.
- Neglecting Seasoning: A little salt and pepper go a long way. Don’t forget to season your layers properly for maximum taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30-45 seconds, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders that may help you get the best results.
What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are bite-sized versions of the classic open-faced sandwich, featuring turkey, cheese sauce, and crispy bacon.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sliders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use. Just reheat before serving.
What kind of bread works best for these sliders?
King’s Hawaiian Rolls are perfect because they add sweetness and softness that complements the savory filling.
How do I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Feel free to add different toppings like jalapeños or switch up the cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences!
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a game day gathering or a cozy dinner at home. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a mouthwatering spin on the classic open-faced sandwich, perfect for any occasion. These delightful bite-sized treats combine tender turkey, fresh tomatoes, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon nestled between soft King’s Hawaiian Rolls. Ideal for game day gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, these sliders are sure to impress with their savory flavors and satisfying textures. Easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, they make entertaining a breeze and guarantee that everyone will come back for seconds.
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
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth.
- Add kosher salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, white cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Place the bottom half in a baking dish and layer with turkey slices, sliced tomatoes, and crumbled bacon.
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Brush melted butter mixed with garlic salt over the top half of the rolls.
- Place the top half on the sliders and cover with foil.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (83g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
