Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on a classic open-faced sandwich, transforming it into a fun and tasty appetizer. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or casual dinners, these sliders feature savory turkey, fresh tomatoes, creamy homemade cheese sauce, and crispy bacon. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a hit at any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
Flavorful Layers: The blend of cheeses and spices creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Dish: Whether for potlucks or family dinners, these sliders fit perfectly into various meal settings.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of turkey and bacon ensures that even picky eaters will enjoy every bite.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the sliders in advance, making them an excellent choice for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Whisk
Saucepan
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: A good baking dish holds all the sliders together while they cook evenly.
Whisk: Using a whisk helps achieve a smooth cheese sauce without lumps.
Saucepan: A saucepan is crucial for making the cheese sauce quickly and efficiently.

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 saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
Add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and whisk until combined.
Gradually pour in 1 cup of whole milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
Stir in ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg.
Once the mixture thickens, remove from heat and add 1 cup of white cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of parmesan cheese. Stir until melted.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a baking dish, arrange the bottom halves of the King’s Hawaiian Rolls.
Layer with turkey slices followed by tomato slices.
Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the turkey and tomatoes.
Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top before placing the top halves of rolls back on.

Step 3: Bake the Sliders

Brush the tops of the rolls with melted unsalted butter mixed with garlic salt.
Cover with foil and bake for about 15 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until golden brown.

These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are sure to be a favorite at your next gathering! Enjoy their rich flavors paired with your favorite sides or dips!

How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. These sliders make for great appetizers, main courses, or even party snacks. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

For Game Day

Serve with Chips: Pair these sliders with a variety of chips for a crunchy side that complements the creamy filling.
Add Dips: Offer ranch or buffalo sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the flavor and adding a fun element to your meal.

At a Potluck

Mini Buns: Instead of King’s Hawaiian Rolls, use mini slider buns for easier sharing among guests.
Garnish with Herbs: Top each slider with fresh parsley or basil before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Family Dinner

Serve with Salad: A light mixed green salad balances the richness of the sliders and adds nutritional value to your meal.
Include Pickles: Offer dill pickles on the side for a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the sliders.

How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Perfecting Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders requires attention to detail and a few cooking tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your sliders are always a hit.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy but not burnt; this will keep it flavorful without overshadowing other ingredients.
Let Cheese Sauce Thicken: Allow your cheese sauce to thicken properly before assembling; this prevents soggy sliders.
Toast the Buns Lightly: Lightly toast the rolls before adding filling; this helps maintain their structure while keeping them soft inside.

Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

When serving Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, choosing complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sliders.
Sweet Potato Fries: These add sweetness and crunch, making them a perfect pairing with savory flavors.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds seasonal freshness and sweetness alongside your sliders.
Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is hearty and pairs well with the flavors of Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers bright colors and natural sweetness, balancing out heavier dishes.
Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs are easy to prepare and always popular at gatherings, making them an excellent companion dish.
Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is satisfying and goes well with finger foods like sliders.
Garlic Breadsticks: These add an extra touch of flavor; perfect for scooping up any leftover cheese sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.

Using cold ingredients – Cold ingredients can affect the melting of cheese and the overall texture. Make sure to use room temperature milk and butter for a smoother sauce.
Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season your cheese sauce can lead to bland sliders. Always add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to enhance flavor.
Overcooking the sliders – Cooking the sliders for too long can dry them out. Bake just until they are golden brown and heated through.
Not layering properly – Incorrect layering can lead to uneven flavors. Ensure you layer turkey, tomatoes, and cheese sauce evenly for the best taste.
Ignoring presentation – A messy assembly can detract from your dish’s appeal. Take time to arrange toppings neatly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Freeze them for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Microwave – Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover with a lid for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders.

What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a mini version of the classic open-faced sandwich featuring turkey, tomatoes, cheese sauce, and bacon on soft rolls.

Can I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or swap turkey for chicken or ham based on your preference.

How do I make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese sauce and assemble the sliders up to a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

These sliders pair well with a fresh salad or crispy potato chips for a complete meal or appetizer spread.

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering or meal. You can easily customize them with different proteins or toppings based on your taste. Give this recipe a try; it might just become a new favorite!

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

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Author: Samia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x

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Description

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious and fun twist on the traditional open-faced sandwich, perfect for any gathering or casual meal. These mini sliders are loaded with savory turkey, fresh tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, all topped with crispy bacon for a flavor explosion in every bite. Ideal for game days, potlucks, or family dinners, these sliders are not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With their rich and satisfying layers of flavor, they will quickly become a favorite among both adults and kids alike!

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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Instructions

Prepare the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Whisk in flour until combined. Gradually add whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Once thickened, mix in cheddar and parmesan until melted.
Assemble sliders: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bottom halves of rolls in a baking dish. Layer with turkey slices and tomatoes. Pour cheese sauce over the top and sprinkle with crumbled bacon before adding the top halves.
Bake: Brush tops with melted butter mixed with garlic salt. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.

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