Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on a classic dish. These savory sliders combine turkey, fresh tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, all layered between sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls. Perfect for parties, game day, or family gatherings, these sliders are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavors and comforting textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of turkey, cheese sauce, and bacon creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: These sliders work great as appetizers or as a main course for any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or events where you want to satisfy a hungry crowd.
- Comfort Food Twist: Enjoy the essence of a classic Kentucky Hot Brown in slider form!
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick spray
- Medium saucepan
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Baking dish (7×11-inch)
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick spray: Prevents your sliders from sticking to the baking dish for easy removal.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for making your creamy cheese sauce without any hassle.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your cheese sauce by blending ingredients well.
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.
Thousands of Happy Customers Can't Be Wrong About These Bowls!
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 Butter Topping
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Sliders
- 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: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in flour and cook until smooth and golden brown for 1-2 minutes.
- While whisking constantly, slowly pour in the milk.
- Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add the cheeses; whisk until fully melted. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Butter Topping
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic salt, parsley, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Split the rolls in half and place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
- Top with turkey slices, tomato slices, cheese sauce, and crumbled bacon.
- Place the tops of the buns on top and brush with the melted butter mixture.
Step 4: Bake Your Sliders
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven, slice into individual sliders, and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders at your next gathering!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are not just delicious; they are versatile and can be served in many ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some great serving suggestions that complement this delightful dish.
For a Casual Gathering
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the sliders with extra parsley or chives for a fresh flavor.
- Pair with Chips: Serve alongside crispy potato chips for a crunchy contrast.
As a Game Day Snack
- Make a Slider Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter and add toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Offer sauces like ranch or spicy mustard for added flavor.
For a Family Dinner
- Add a Salad: Serve with a light side salad to balance the richness of the sliders.
- Include Pickles: A side of dill pickles adds a nice tangy crunch.
At a Potluck
- Offer Mini Servings: Cut the sliders into smaller pieces for easier sharing.
- Label Your Dish: Use fun labels to let guests know what they’re enjoying.

How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To ensure your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes enhance the flavors significantly.
- Adjust Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
- Don’t Skip the Butter Topping: This adds richness and helps achieve that golden crust.
- Bake Covered First: Covering the dish keeps moisture in, ensuring gooey cheese without burning.
- Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allow sliders to cool for a few minutes; this makes them easier to slice and serve.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Completing your meal with perfect side dishes can elevate your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders experience. Here are some ideal pairings:
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides crunch and complements the richness of the sliders.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and color to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is always a favorite during gatherings, especially in summer.
- Macaroni Salad: A cold macaroni salad is refreshing and pairs well with warm sliders.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly.
- Using cold milk: Cold milk can lead to a lumpy cheese sauce. Always use room temperature milk for a smoother texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the cheese sauce can result in bland sliders. Make sure to add salt, pepper, and nutmeg for enhanced flavor.
- Overbaking the sliders: Leaving the sliders in the oven too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove once they are golden brown and bubbly.
- Not letting them cool: Serving sliders straight from the oven may cause burns. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving for better handling.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality turkey or cheese can affect taste. Opt for fresh ingredients for a delicious finish.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure they have cooled completely before sealing.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and place sliders inside. Cover and heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are mini sandwiches made with turkey, tomatoes, cheese sauce, and bacon, inspired by the classic open-faced sandwich.
Can I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Absolutely! You can use different meats like ham or chicken, or even add veggies such as spinach or peppers to suit your taste.
How can I make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders healthier?
To make them healthier, consider using whole grain rolls, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables while reducing the amount of butter used.
Can I prepare Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.
What should I serve with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
These sliders pair well with a side salad, potato chips, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are not just delicious; they are also versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual dinner at home, these sliders will surely impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this recipe your own!
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful and comforting twist on the classic open-faced sandwich. These mini sandwiches feature layers of savory turkey, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce, all nestled between sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls. Perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners, these sliders are sure to impress with their rich flavors and satisfying textures. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, they can be served as appetizers or a hearty main course. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that brings the essence of Kentucky’s famous Hot Brown right to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 package (12-count) King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 1 pound turkey breast (leftover or deli-style)
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced)
- 8–10 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk and seasonings; cook until thickened. Stir in cheeses until melted.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter with garlic salt and parsley for the topping.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray. Place bottom halves of rolls in the dish.
- Layer with turkey slices, tomato slices, cheese sauce, and crumbled bacon. Top with the other half of the rolls and brush with butter mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (75g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg





Leave a Comment