Derby Day Hot Brown Sliders

When the excitement of Derby Day fills the air and the mint juleps start flowing, there's no better way to celebrate than with a plate of Hot Brown Sliders. Born from Kentucky's culinary heritage, this miniature twist on the legendary Louisville sandwich brings together tender turkey, crispy bacon, and a luxurious Mornay sauce that cascades over soft, pillowy rolls. These sliders capture all the indulgence of the classic Hot Brown in a perfectly portioned, party-ready format that your guests won't be able to resist.

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The magic of these sliders lies in the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The soft rolls provide a tender base, while the turkey offers satisfying protein. Crispy bacon adds that essential crunch and smoky depth, and fresh tomato slices bring a bright, juicy contrast. But it's the Mornay sauce—that silky, cheese-enriched béchamel—that truly makes these sliders unforgettable, binding everything together in creamy, savory perfection.

Ingredients

• For the Sliders: 12 soft slider rolls (Hawaiian rolls or brioche), 2 cups cooked turkey breast (sliced or shredded), 8 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked crisp and cut in half), 1 cup Roma tomatoes (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• For the Mornay Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• For Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.

Step 2: Make the Mornay Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, cooking and whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Slider Base

Split the slider rolls horizontally and place the bottom halves in a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Layer the Fillings

Distribute the turkey evenly over the roll bottoms, followed by the tomato slices and bacon pieces, creating generous layers.

Step 5: Add the Sauce and Cheese

Pour the prepared Mornay sauce evenly over the assembled sliders, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 6: Top and Bake

Place the top halves of the rolls over the filling. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, until the tops are lightly browned and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best Mornay sauce, ensure your heat is at medium and whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. The key is patience—allow the flour to cook properly in the butter to eliminate any raw flour taste, then add your liquids gradually. When adding the cheese, make sure the sauce is off the heat so the cheese melts smoothly without becoming grainy. If your sauce seems too thick, you can thin it with a splash more milk. For extra richness, brush the tops of the slider rolls with melted butter before the final bake—this creates a beautiful golden finish and adds another layer of flavor.

Varianten und Anpassungen

While these sliders are perfect as written, there's plenty of room for customization. Swap the turkey for thinly sliced ham to create a different flavor profile that's equally delicious. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream in the Mornay sauce, though it will be slightly less rich. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce or spread a thin layer of whole grain mustard on the rolls before assembling. You can also experiment with different cheeses—Gruyère makes an excellent substitute for the cheddar, lending a nuttier, more complex flavor to the sauce.

Serviervorschläge

These Hot Brown Sliders shine brightest when served warm, straight from the oven with the cheese still bubbling. They're ideal for Derby Day parties, game day gatherings, or any occasion that calls for impressive finger food. Pair them with a crisp, chilled Chardonnay that can stand up to the richness of the Mornay sauce, or embrace the Kentucky tradition with a classic bourbon cocktail—a mint julep would be absolutely perfect. For a complete spread, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or offer pickles and cornichons as tangy accompaniments. These sliders are substantial enough to serve as a main course for a casual lunch or as a hearty appetizer that will keep your guests satisfied throughout the celebration.

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Whether you're hosting a Derby Day bash or simply craving the comforting flavors of this Southern classic, these Hot Brown Sliders deliver everything you love about the original in a format that's perfect for sharing. The combination of tender turkey, smoky bacon, fresh tomatoes, and that gloriously rich Mornay sauce creates a harmony of flavors that honors Kentucky's culinary legacy while making it accessible for any gathering. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to serve up a plate of sliders that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Cooking Guide

→ What type of bread is best for these sliders?

Soft slider rolls like Hawaiian or brioche work best, providing a slightly sweet base that complements the rich ingredients.

→ Can I substitute the turkey with other meats?

Yes, ham or roast chicken can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile while maintaining a tender texture.

→ How is the Mornay sauce prepared?

Butter and flour are cooked into a roux, then whisked with milk and cream until thickened. Cheddar, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper are stirred in for a creamy, cheesy finish.

→ What are some suitable garnishes for these sliders?

Chopped fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous touch that enhances the presentation and flavor.

→ Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Assembly can be done in advance and refrigerated. Bake shortly before serving to ensure the sauce is bubbly and the rolls are fresh.

→ What beverage pairs well with these sliders?

A crisp Chardonnay or a Kentucky bourbon cocktail pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the sauce and bacon.