Welcome to a culinary adventure that reimagines a Southern classic into an irresistible, bite-sized sensation: Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders. These delectable mini sandwiches feature succulent slices of roasted turkey, perfectly crispy bacon, fresh, juicy tomatoes, all cradled within soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls, and generously topped with a rich, homemade cheese sauce. A final brush of savory-sweet glaze before baking elevates them to an unforgettable treat, perfect for any gathering or a fun weeknight meal.
An Irresistible Twist on a Kentucky Classic: Hot Brown Sliders
The Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders take everything you love about the iconic open-faced sandwich and condense it into a convenient, handheld format. This recipe offers a unique flavor profile that masterfully balances a hint of sweetness from the rolls and glaze with the savory depth of turkey, bacon, and the star of the show: a velvety homemade cheese sauce, often known by its culinary name, Mornay sauce. Trust us when we say, this cheese sauce is so incredibly good, it’s worth every bit of effort! It might sound sophisticated, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare and truly transforms these sliders from good to extraordinary.
These savory-sweet sliders are incredibly versatile. They are an absolute must-have for your Kentucky Derby viewing parties, where the original Hot Brown sandwich is a staple. Beyond that, they make fantastic appetizers for game nights, potlucks, family gatherings, or even a delightful and easy dinner solution that everyone will adore. Their small size makes them ideal for serving a crowd, allowing guests to enjoy multiple flavors without committing to a full sandwich. The combination of tender turkey, salty bacon, tangy tomato, and creamy cheese sauce on a sweet bun creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone reaching for more.
“Fantastic recipe. I am lucky enough to have eaten this sandwich twice at the famous Brown Hotel in Louisville. Your recipe is great! I have not eaten it with gruyere. Only with parmesan and romano.
– Jim D.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT KENTUCKY HOT BROWN SLIDERS
The Kentucky Hot Brown is a truly iconic American open-faced sandwich with a rich history, originating in 1926 at the luxurious Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. It was created by Chef Fred Schmidt as a late-night meal for hotel guests who were tired of traditional ham and eggs. The original sandwich is famously made with thick slices of roasted turkey breast, crispy bacon, and a rich Mornay sauce, all served on toasted white bread. It’s then traditionally broiled until the sauce is bubbly and golden, often garnished with tomato slices and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This hearty and flavorful sandwich gained widespread popularity, especially becoming a beloved dish served during the annual Kentucky Derby festivities. Our sliders capture the essence of this classic in a more casual, shareable form.
Mornay sauce is a classic French cheese sauce, and it’s the secret ingredient that makes these Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders truly special. It’s essentially a béchamel sauce (a white sauce made from a roux of butter and flour, cooked with milk) to which shredded cheese is added and melted. While its name might sound intimidating, preparing a Mornay sauce from scratch is quite straightforward and incredibly rewarding. For these sliders, we call it a “homemade cheese sauce” to emphasize its simplicity and deliciousness without the fancy culinary term. It provides a creamy, rich, and utterly irresistible topping that coats every element of the sandwich perfectly.
While the homemade Mornay sauce is highly recommended for its superior flavor and texture, we understand that sometimes time or energy can be limited. If you’re short on time, you absolutely don’t have to make it from scratch. You can opt for a good quality pre-made melty cheese sauce. For a quick and easy alternative, products like Velveeta queso blanco, or a similar meltable cheese dip, can be gently heated and poured over the sliders. While it won’t replicate the nuanced flavor of a true Mornay, it will still provide a delicious, cheesy element that works wonderfully in a pinch. Just ensure it’s a sauce that melts smoothly and evenly.
No Gruyere? No problem! While Gruyere cheese is traditional for Mornay sauce due to its excellent melting properties and nutty flavor, there are several delicious substitutes you can use. Excellent alternatives include mozzarella, which offers a classic stretchy melt; Swiss cheese, known for its nutty, slightly sweet profile; Gouda, which melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy taste; or white cheddar, providing a sharper, tangier kick. Experiment with what you have on hand or what you prefer – each will lend a slightly different character to your cheese sauce, but all will be delicious.
To reheat any leftover sliders, the oven is generally your best bet for maintaining their delicious texture. Place them in a baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil. This prevents the rolls from drying out or burning. Reheat in a preheated oven at about 300-325°F (150-160°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, for a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Just be mindful that microwaving can sometimes make the rolls a bit softer and the bacon less crispy, but it’s a perfectly acceptable method for a fast reheat. Ensure they are covered loosely to prevent excessive moisture loss.
Leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders should be stored promptly to maintain their freshness and safety. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, these sliders freeze surprisingly well. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual sliders or the whole batch tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above for best results.
ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR KENTUCKY HOT BROWN SLIDERS (FULL RECIPE DETAILS IN THE RECIPE CARD BELOW)
Crafting these sensational sliders requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that signature Hot Brown flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips for each component:
- Salted Butter and All-Purpose Flour: These two humble ingredients are the foundation of your creamy cheese sauce. They combine to create a roux, which acts as the thickening agent for the sauce, ensuring it’s smooth and luscious. Using salted butter adds an extra layer of flavor right from the start.
- Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg is a classic addition to any Mornay or béchamel sauce. It provides a subtle, warm, and aromatic background note that perfectly complements the cheese without being overpowering. While traditional, if you’re not a fan, you can certainly omit it. However, we highly recommend including it for that authentic touch!
- Whole Milk: For the richest and creamiest cheese sauce, whole milk is highly recommended. Its higher fat content contributes significantly to the velvety texture and luxurious mouthfeel. While 2% milk can be used if necessary, skim milk is not advised as it will result in a much thinner and less flavorful sauce.
- Shredded Gruyere Cheese: Gruyere is a semi-hard yellow cheese from Switzerland, renowned for its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and excellent melting capabilities. It’s ideal for a Mornay sauce. If Gruyere is difficult to find or you prefer an alternative, refer to our FAQ section above for suitable substitutions like mozzarella, Swiss, Gouda, or white cheddar.
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: These soft, slightly sweet rolls are absolutely perfect for sliders. Their inherent sweetness beautifully contrasts the savory fillings and the rich cheese sauce, creating a balanced flavor profile. If you prefer a less sweet option, standard dinner rolls or brioche slider buns can be used instead.
- Sliced Deli Turkey: High-quality, thinly sliced deli turkey is a quick and convenient choice for these sliders. You can use roasted turkey breast, or if you’re making these after a holiday, leftover roasted turkey meat or even sliced cooked chicken breast would be excellent substitutes, adding another layer of homemade flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: What’s a Hot Brown without bacon? The smoky, salty crunch of bacon is essential. Cook your bacon until it’s perfectly crisp and then chop it into small pieces for easy layering. For those looking for a shortcut, pre-cooked bacon strips or good quality store-bought bacon bits (often found near salad toppings in the grocery store) can be used, though fresh-cooked bacon always offers the best flavor and texture.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Slices of fresh tomato add a bright, acidic counterpoint to the rich and savory components. They provide a pop of color and a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness, balancing the entire sandwich.
- Glaze Ingredients: Light Brown Sugar, Dijon Mustard, Worcestershire Sauce, Dried Onion Flakes, Garlic Powder: This unique glaze is brushed over the tops of the rolls before baking, adding a final layer of irresistible flavor. The brown sugar contributes sweetness and aids in browning, Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, Worcestershire sauce provides umami depth, and the dried onion flakes and garlic powder enhance the savory notes. This combination creates a delicious sticky, savory, and slightly sweet topping. Feel free to adjust the quantities or omit any ingredient you don’t prefer to tailor the glaze to your personal taste.
CRAFTING YOUR KENTUCKY HOT BROWN SLIDERS: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Making these Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these steps carefully to ensure every bite is perfect:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As the oven heats, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent any delicious cheese from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Set the dish aside.
Next, it’s time to create the star of the show: the homemade cheese sauce (Mornay). In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and a tiny pinch of nutmeg. Continue to whisk constantly for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to cook out its raw taste and form a smooth roux.
Gradually, in a slow, steady stream, pour in 1 cup of whole milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, still whisking, and let it cook for 1 minute until it thickens. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately, then whisk in ½ cup of shredded Gruyere cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Set your magnificent cheese sauce aside.
Now, let’s assemble the sliders. Take your package of Hawaiian rolls and slice them horizontally in half, creating a top and bottom slab. Place the bottom halves of the rolls, cut-side up, into your prepared baking dish. Evenly layer 1 pound of thinly sliced deli turkey over the entire surface of the rolls.
Next, scatter 12 ounces of your cooked, crispy, and chopped bacon over the turkey layer. This adds a fantastic texture and smoky flavor. Then, generously dollop your freshly made cheese sauce over the bacon and gently spread it out to cover as much of the surface as possible. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly even; it will melt and spread further during baking.
Carefully place 12 small tomato slices over the cheese sauce layer, aiming for one slice per roll if possible, to ensure every slider gets a burst of fresh flavor. Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese evenly over the tomatoes. This will create a beautiful, melted cheese crust on top.
Place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls back over the layered fillings. In a separate small bowl, combine ½ cup of melted salted butter, 2 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar, ½ tablespoon of Dijon mustard, ½ tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried onion flakes, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and create a smooth glaze.
Generously brush this entire butter mixture over the tops of the rolls. It might seem like a lot, but use it all; this glaze is key to achieving that delicious golden-brown, savory-sweet crust. Cover the baking dish tightly with nonstick aluminum foil (or spray regular foil with nonstick spray to prevent sticking). Try your best to create a dome with the foil so it doesn’t touch the top of the rolls, preserving that lovely glaze.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are beautifully golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. This final uncovered bake ensures a perfectly toasted finish.
Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the cheese and fillings to set slightly, making them easier to slice and serve. Then, slice between the rolls and serve these warm, incredibly flavorful Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders to your eager guests!
ENHANCING YOUR HOT BROWN SLIDER EXPERIENCE: TIPS AND VARIATIONS
To truly master these Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders and make them your own, consider these additional tips and variations:
Tips for Success:
- Perfectly Crispy Bacon: For the best results, cook your bacon until it’s very crispy. You can bake it in the oven on a wire rack for even cooking and less mess, or pan-fry it until golden brown and shattered. The contrast of crispy bacon against the soft rolls and creamy sauce is divine.
- Even Cheese Sauce Distribution: When spreading the Mornay sauce, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread it across the bacon layer. Don’t press too hard, as you want to keep the layers intact.
- Preventing Soggy Bottoms: Hawaiian rolls are soft, so to prevent the bottoms from getting soggy, ensure your cheese sauce isn’t overly runny. The roux should create a nice, thick consistency.
- Resting Time is Key: Don’t skip the 5-10 minute cooling time after baking. This allows the hot cheese to set, making the sliders easier to cut and preventing the fillings from oozing out excessively when served.
Creative Variations:
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your Mornay sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce to the butter glaze.
- Herbaceous Twist: Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped and sprinkled over the top before the final bake, can add a fresh, aromatic element.
- Different Meats: While turkey is traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cooked meats like thinly sliced ham, roast beef, or even a mix of meats for a unique flavor combination.
- Vegetable Additions: Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a layer of spinach could be interesting additions, though they would diverge from the classic Hot Brown profile.
- Cheese Blend: While Gruyere is fantastic, a blend of cheeses (like Gruyere with a bit of sharp white cheddar or smoked Gouda) can add complexity to your Mornay sauce.
CRAVING MORE RECIPES? EXPLORE OUR SLIDER COLLECTION AND KENTUCKY FAVORITES!
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of sliders, or if you’re looking for more Southern-inspired delights, check out these fantastic recipes:
- Pizza Pull-Apart Sliders
- French Dip Sliders
- Garlic Bread Italian Sliders
- Honey Mustard Ham Sliders
- Sausage, Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders
- Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Italian Grinder Sliders
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
- Leftover Thanksgiving Sliders
- Monte Cristo Sliders
- BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Big Mac Sliders
- Reuben Sliders
- Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Kentucky Butter Cake
- Kentucky Derby Pie
Originally published: March 2024
Republished: March 2025
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
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20 minutes
30 minutes
50 minutes
12 servings
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- pinch nutmeg
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup shredded Gruyere cheese
For the Sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (one package)
- 1 pound sliced deli turkey
- 12 ounces bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
- 12 slices small tomato
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (for topping)
For the Butter Topping:
- ½ cup salted butter, melted
- 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- ½ Tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
- To make the cheese sauce: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg until smooth. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Slowly stream in 1 cup of whole milk while continuously whisking. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it simmer for 1 minute, continuing to whisk as it thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in ½ cup of shredded Gruyere cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Set the cheese sauce aside.
- Slice the 12 Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves of the rolls, cut-side up, into the prepared baking dish.
- Layer 1 pound of sliced deli turkey evenly over the bottom rolls.
- Evenly spread 12 ounces of cooked, crispy, and chopped bacon over the turkey.
- Dollop the prepared cheese sauce over the bacon layer and gently spread it out to cover the surface.
- Top the rolls evenly with 12 small tomato slices. Try to place one slice on each roll.
- Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese over the tomato slices.
- Place the top halves of the rolls back on top of the layered ingredients.
- In a separate small bowl, combine ½ cup of melted salted butter, 2 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar, ½ tablespoon of Dijon mustard, ½ tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried onion flakes, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir until well combined to form the glaze.
- Brush the entire butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls, ensuring every roll is coated.
- Cover the baking dish with nonstick foil (or spray regular foil with cooking spray). Try to make a tent with the foil so it doesn’t touch the tops of the rolls. Bake for about 20 minutes.
- Uncover the baking dish and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Allow the sliders to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders!
Notes
- For more ingredient substitutions and answers to common questions, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section and the ingredient list provided above.
Appetizer, Lunch, Dinner, Snack
American, Southern
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
Carbohydrates: 22g |
Protein: 18g |
Fat: 29g |
Sodium: 989mg |
Fiber: 0.1g |
Sugar: 8g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used and specific portion sizes.