Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic open-faced sandwich. This appetizer is packed with flavors from turkey, fresh tomatoes, rich cheese sauce, and crispy bacon. Perfect for potlucks, game days, or any gathering, these sliders are sure to impress guests and family alike. The combination of creamy cheese and savory toppings makes them a standout dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of cheeses and spices creates a rich, savory experience in every bite.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in under 40 minutes.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for appetizers, dinner parties, or casual gatherings; they fit any occasion!
- Fun to Share: These sliders encourage sharing and are great for family-style meals.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness and familiar turkey flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and easy serving for your sliders.
- Whisk: Helps create a smooth cheese sauce without lumps.
- Saucepan: Essential for melting butter and mixing ingredients evenly.
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 saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour until it’s smooth.
- Gradually add the whole milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps.
- Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, white cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Cook 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 but keep them connected.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish.
- Layer with turkey breast slices followed by tomato slices and crumbled bacon.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the turkey and toppings.
- Brush the top of the rolls with melted butter mixed with garlic salt and fresh parsley.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Finish Baking
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders at your next gathering!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any gathering. These sliders can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience.
For Game Day Gatherings
- Finger Food Delight: Serve these sliders on a platter for easy snacking while enjoying the game.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch or honey mustard for added flavor and variety.
At Family Parties
- Buffet Style: Place the sliders on a large serving tray with sides to encourage guests to build their own plates.
- Garnish Options: Add fresh herbs or extra crumbled bacon on top for an enticing presentation.
During Casual Get-Togethers
- Light Appetizer: Cut the sliders into smaller pieces for a simple appetizer that guests can enjoy while mingling.
- Pair with Cocktails: Complement the sliders with refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade.
How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To ensure your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders turn out perfectly, follow these essential tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes to enhance flavor.
- Make Your Own Sauce: A homemade cheese sauce gives your sliders a creamy consistency that store-bought sauces can’t match.
- Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on the sliders while baking; they should be golden brown and bubbly when done.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the sliders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
When serving Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal.
- Crispy Fries: Classic fries add crunch and are always a crowd-pleaser. Try seasoning them with garlic or paprika for an extra kick.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is comforting and pairs well with hearty sliders, making it an excellent choice for potlucks.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies not only look appealing but also bring healthy balance to your meal.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add another layer of flavor that complements turkey perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat during summer gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
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Skipping the cheese sauce: Many might think store-bought cheese is enough. However, a homemade cheese sauce adds richness and flavor. Take the time to prepare it for an authentic taste.
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Using dry turkey: Leftover turkey can be dry if not used correctly. Make sure to layer it generously in your sliders or consider adding a bit of moisture with extra sauce.
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Overcooking the bacon: While crispy bacon is essential, overcooking can make it too tough. Aim for a balance where it’s crispy but still has some chew.
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Neglecting seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper can make all the difference. Don’t forget to season each layer, including the turkey and tomatoes, for a flavor-packed bite.
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Inadequate baking time: Rushing the baking process may lead to uneven melting of cheese and warm ingredients. Follow the recommended cook time for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders in an airtight container.
- They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Wrap sliders individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen sliders will keep for about 2-3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat them for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders.
What is a Kentucky Hot Brown Slider?
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders transform the classic open-faced sandwich into bite-sized appetizers with turkey, cheese sauce, and bacon.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyere for unique flavors while maintaining that creamy texture.
How do I customize my sliders?
Add ingredients such as jalapeños for spice or avocado slices for creaminess. You can also switch out turkey for chicken or ham!
Are these sliders suitable for parties?
Absolutely! Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are perfect as finger foods at gatherings, potlucks, or game day events.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. They work well as appetizers or even as part of a main meal. Don’t hesitate to customize them according to your taste preferences; these sliders can be tailored in many ways to suit any occasion!
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings (12 sliders) 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic open-faced sandwich, combining tender turkey, creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for potlucks, game days, or family gatherings and is sure to impress your guests with its savory flavors and comforting texture. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders are an easy-to-make, mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until it's smooth. Gradually add the whole milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, white cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese. Cook until melted and creamy.
- Slice the King's Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally but keep them connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish. Layer with turkey breast slices followed by tomato slices and crumbled bacon.
- Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the turkey and toppings. Brush the top of the rolls with melted butter mixed with garlic salt and fresh parsley. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (75g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
