Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic open-faced sandwich, perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. These sliders combine tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, rich homemade cheese sauce, and crispy bacon all nestled in soft rolls. Ideal for potlucks, game days, or any occasion where flavor takes center stage, these sliders are sure to impress your guests with their comforting taste and delightful presentation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders quickly.
Flavor Packed: The combination of turkey, cheese sauce, and bacon creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course for dinner.
Crowd Pleaser: Great for parties or gatherings; they’ll disappear fast!
Comfort Food Twist: A modern take on a classic Kentucky dish that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation seamless. Having everything ready will ensure you can focus on creating these tasty sliders without interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: This is essential for assembling and baking your sliders evenly.
Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the creamy cheese sauce that ties the flavors together.
Whisk: Ensures smooth mixing when creating the cheese sauce without lumps.

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: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
Add the all-purpose flour and whisk until combined to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the whole milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg.
Once thickened, stir in the white cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally without separating them completely.
Place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
Layer sliced turkey over the rolls followed by sliced tomatoes and crumbled bacon.
Drizzle generously with the prepared cheese sauce.

Step 3: Bake

Place the top halves of the rolls on top of the assembled ingredients.
Brush melted butter over the top of each slider.
Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.

These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

For Game Day

Serve these sliders with a side of crispy potato chips for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy cheese sauce.
Pair with pickles or jalapeños to add a zesty kick that balances the richness of the sliders.

At a Potluck

Arrange the sliders on a large platter and garnish with fresh parsley for an eye-catching presentation that will draw guests in.
Include small appetizer plates and napkins for easy serving and enjoyment.

Family Dinner Night

Serve alongside a simple salad, like Caesar or mixed greens, to add freshness and balance to the meal.
Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch or BBQ, to let family members customize their flavors.

Tailgate Parties

Prepare these sliders ahead of time and keep them warm in a slow cooker, making them easy to serve at outdoor events.
Complement with cold beverages like iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink option.

How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, follow these tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes enhance the overall taste and presentation of your sliders.
Don’t rush the cheese sauce: Allowing it to thicken properly ensures that each slider is creamy and delicious.
Customize toppings: Experiment with different cheeses or add sautéed mushrooms for added depth of flavor.
Toast the rolls lightly: A brief toast in the oven adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft filling.

Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

These sliders pair wonderfully with various side dishes that can round out your meal. Here are some great options.

Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the sliders.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to savory flavors while being easy to prepare.
Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers add creaminess and protein, making them an excellent match for sliders.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn can add sweetness and a fun element to your meal.
Baked Beans: Rich and hearty baked beans make for a comforting side that complements barbecue flavors well.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers sweetness and freshness, ideal for cutting through rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

Using cold milk: Always use room temperature milk for a smoother cheese sauce. Cold milk can cause lumps.
Skipping the nutmeg: Nutmeg adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip it; just a little enhances the dish beautifully.
Overcooking the bacon: Bacon should be crispy but not burnt. Aim for a nice golden color.
Not letting sliders cool: Allowing sliders to cool for a few minutes makes them easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-10 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders.

Can I make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sliders in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them when ready to serve!

What type of cheese is best for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

White cheddar and parmesan work wonderfully together, but feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Chicken is a great substitute and will still deliver delicious flavors.

How do I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

You can add different toppings like jalapeños or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on a classic dish that suits any occasion—from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your preferences, making them a fun addition to your recipe repertoire. Give them a try at your next potluck or game day!

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Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

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Author: Amanda
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 12 sliders 1x

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Description

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a mouthwatering take on the traditional open-faced sandwich, perfect for any gathering or family meal. These mini sandwiches feature tender turkey, fresh tomatoes, and crispy bacon, all topped with a rich and creamy homemade cheese sauce. Nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your guests. Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or a cozy dinner at home, these sliders provide comfort food at its best.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound turkey breast
2 medium tomatoes
8–10 slices bacon
1 cup white cheddar cheese (shredded)
¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
King’s Hawaiian Rolls (12-count)

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add room temperature milk while whisking until smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in cheddar and parmesan until melted.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice rolls horizontally and layer turkey, tomatoes, and bacon in a baking dish.
Drizzle cheese sauce over the layers and place the top halves of rolls on top. Brush with melted butter.
Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American