Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic open-faced sandwich. These sliders combine tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, rich homemade cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for any occasion, from game days to family gatherings, these sliders are sure to impress your guests with their amazing flavors and ease of preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With a quick prep time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks or parties, everyone will enjoy the savory combination of ingredients.
- Flavorful: The mix of creamy cheese sauce, turkey, and crispy bacon creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer or main dish; these sliders fit into any meal plan seamlessly.
- Comfort Food: Bringing together familiar flavors makes this dish a comforting choice for any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth cooking. Having the right equipment can make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your sliders.
- Saucepan: Necessary for making the rich cheese sauce that gives the sliders their unique flavor.
- Whisk: Helps in mixing ingredients smoothly when preparing the cheese sauce.
- Knife: Essential for slicing tomatoes and turkey 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
Start by preparing the cheese sauce that will elevate your sliders:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter.
2. Stir in 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, whisking continuously until it forms a paste.
3. Gradually add in 1 cup whole milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Add in kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir well.
5. Once heated through, mix in the white cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Sliders
Now it’s time to assemble your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the pack of King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
3. Place the bottom half in a greased baking dish.
4. Layer with slices of turkey breast followed by tomato slices.
5. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over everything.
6. Top with crumbled bacon.
7. Brush the top half of rolls with melted butter mixed with garlic salt and sprinkle with parsley before placing it on top.
Step 3: Bake
Finally, bake your sliders for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top:
1. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; they should be bubbly and slightly crispy when done.
These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are now ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dish as an appetizer or main course at your next gathering!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful and versatile appetizer that can be served in various ways. They make an excellent addition to any gathering, from casual get-togethers to more formal occasions.
For a Casual Gathering
- Buffet Style: Set up a buffet where guests can serve themselves. This encourages mingling and casual conversation.
- Platter Presentation: Arrange the sliders on a large platter with fresh parsley for garnish. This adds color and makes the dish more inviting.
As Game Day Snacks
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside ranch or barbecue sauce for dipping. This adds extra flavor and variety.
- Mini Slider Bites: Cut each slider into smaller pieces for easy snacking during the game.
At Formal Events
- Elegant Serving: Place sliders on individual plates with a side of mixed greens. This elevates the dish for a more sophisticated setting.
- Wine Pairing: Offer wine pairings, such as a light Chardonnay, to complement the flavors of the sliders.
For Family Dinners
- Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a homey feel. Encourage everyone to take what they want while enjoying family time.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Include sliced avocados or pickles on the side to add freshness and crunch.
How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To ensure your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh tomatoes and high-quality turkey for better flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy but not overly done, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Adjust Cheese Amounts: Feel free to increase or decrease cheese amounts based on your preference for creaminess.
- Choose Right Rolls: King’s Hawaiian Rolls work best, but you can substitute with other soft dinner rolls if needed.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Classic Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sliders.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet and savory combination that complements the flavors of the sliders well.
- Deviled Eggs: A traditional favorite that adds protein and pairs nicely with any sandwich dish.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds comfort and is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of hot brown sliders.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits provides freshness and sweetness to round out your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common errors can elevate your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders from good to great. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold milk or butter can affect the consistency of your cheese sauce. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
- Overcooking the bacon: While crispy bacon is great, overcooked bacon can become too crunchy and lose flavor. Cook until crispy but not overly dark.
- Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season each layer can lead to bland sliders. Make sure to season the cheese sauce and turkey well for maximum flavor.
- Skipping the fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. Don’t skip it; sprinkle it generously over your sliders before serving.
- Using stale rolls: Old or stale rolls won’t hold up as well. Ensure your King’s Hawaiian Rolls are fresh for the best texture and taste.
- Neglecting portion sizes: Cutting sliders too large makes them hard to eat. Aim for bite-sized pieces that are easy to handle.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Use parchment paper between layers if stacking.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to 2 months.
- Label with date for easy tracking.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual sliders on medium power for 30-60 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders:
What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious twist on the classic open-faced sandwich, featuring turkey, cheese sauce, tomatoes, and bacon all nestled in soft rolls.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
What types of cheese work best?
While white cheddar is traditional, you can mix cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.
How do I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Add your favorite toppings such as jalapeños or avocado to give them a unique twist!
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders bring comfort food vibes into a convenient bite-sized treat perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their versatility allows you to customize with various toppings and flavors based on your preferences. Be sure to try this recipe; it’s bound to become a crowd favorite!
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a mouthwatering twist on the beloved classic open-faced sandwich, perfect for any occasion. These sliders feature tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, and a rich homemade cheese sauce topped with crispy bacon, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or a family dinner, these easy-to-make sliders are sure to impress your guests with their comforting flavors and delightful presentation. With just 15 minutes of prep time and minimal cooking effort, you can enjoy these savory bites that are always a hit.
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 oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk. Stir in seasonings and cheeses until smooth.
- Assemble sliders: Slice rolls horizontally, layer turkey and tomatoes on the bottom half, pour cheese sauce over, and top with bacon. Brush the top half of rolls with melted butter mixed with garlic salt before placing it on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
