Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your guests with a dish that packs bold flavor, gooey cheese, and tender turkey all squeezed into one delightful bite, then Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich is exactly what you need. This irresistible mini version of the classic Kentucky Hot Brown brings all the rich, creamy, and savory goodness you love, but in a fun, handheld slider form that’s perfect for parties, game days, or any casual gathering. With sweet Hawaiian rolls, smoky bacon, luscious cheese sauce, and tender turkey layered just right, these sliders are bound to disappear faster than you can say “pass the plate.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, creating a balance of creaminess, smokiness, and sweetness that turns every bite into a flavor explosion.

• Hawaiian sweet rolls: Their soft, slightly sweet texture contrasts beautifully with the savory fillings.
• Sliced cooked turkey breast: The star protein that brings mild flavor and tenderness.
• Cooked turkey bacon or beef bacon (optional): Adds a smoky crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
• Sharp white cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to create a rich, gooey topping.
• Unsalted butter: Provides moisture and richness to the cheese sauce and top crust.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to a silky consistency.
• Whole milk: Forms the creamy base of the cheese sauce.
• Salt and black pepper: Enhance and balance the flavors in the sauce.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth.
• Dijon mustard: Introduces a slight tang for complexity.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce a sharp, nutty undertone.
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional): A pop of fresh color and mild herbaceous flavor for garnish.

How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment to keep cleanup effortless—because after savoring these sliders, the last thing you want is a pile of scrubbing. Proper prep is the foundation of any great recipe, and these sliders are no exception.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

This step is where the luscious, creamy heart of your sliders comes to life. Melt butter in a small saucepan and whisk in the flour, cooking away that raw flour taste. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly so it thickens into a smooth, velvety sauce. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful kick that perfectly replicates the famous Mornay sauce from the original Hot Brown.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping each cluster intact for easy assembly. Lay the bottom halves into your baking dish, then layer them with slices of tender turkey and a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for that smoky punch. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the meat, then top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese for an irresistible melt.

Step 4: Butter the Tops

Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter to ensure a beautiful golden finish. For that extra zing, mix in a pinch of garlic powder or some fresh chopped parsley. This little touch elevates the sliders from delicious to absolutely unforgettable and adds a lovely aroma as they bake.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your creation with foil and pop it into the oven for 15 minutes to let all the flavors marry and the cheese melt into glory. Then uncover and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes so the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and invite you to dig in.

Step 6: Serve

Allow the sliders to cool just enough to handle—about five minutes—then slice and serve. The Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich is honestly best when warm and melty, making every bite delightfully gooey and packed with flavor.

How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds not only a vibrant splash of green but a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce. For a bit of extra color and texture, a light dusting of paprika or a few sliced green onions can also do wonders to brighten the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Because these sliders are richly satisfying, pairing them with crisp, refreshing sides works beautifully. Think a tangy coleslaw, a simple green salad with vinaigrette, or even some roasted vegetables. If you’re craving more indulgence, crispy fries or sweet potato chips make for a perfect alongside crunch that balances the creamy sliders perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich on a large wooden board for a rustic look that encourages sharing and conversation. You could also customize each slider with a toothpick topped with a cherry tomato or an olive for eye-catching detail. For parties, consider arranging sliders in a circular pattern with dipping sauces like spicy aioli or honey mustard in the center to add variety to each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any sliders leftover (which is hard but sometimes happens), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days and continue to taste delightful with just a quick reheat.

Freezing

To keep these sliders longer, wrap them tightly in foil and tuck them into a freezer-safe bag. Frozen sliders can last up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to help maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich is in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, covered with foil to preserve moisture. Then uncover during the last few minutes to crisp up the top. Avoid microwaving if you can, as this tends to make the bread soggy and the cheese separate.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread for these sliders?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian sweet rolls add a lovely sweetness and softness, you can experiment with dinner rolls or brioche buns. Just remember to keep the bread soft to complement the rich fillings.

Is turkey bacon necessary?

Turkey bacon is optional but highly recommended because it adds smoky flavor and textural contrast. If you prefer, crispy cooked bacon or even beef bacon can be great swaps.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The cheese sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, warm it gently over low heat and whisk to bring back its creamy smoothness.

Are these sliders gluten-free?

Classic Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders use wheat rolls and flour in the sauce, so they aren’t naturally gluten-free. However, you can substitute gluten-free rolls and use a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish suitable.

What’s the best way to keep the sliders from drying out?

Keeping the top buttered and covering the sliders with foil while baking helps lock in moisture. Also, serving them immediately ensures the cheese stays melty and the turkey tender.

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders : Ultimate Party Sandwich is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food vibes with an elegant twist. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving something special for dinner, these sliders promise satisfaction in every rich, gooey bite. Give this recipe a try and watch them become your new favorite go-to for entertaining and everyday indulgence!

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