Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic hot brown sandwich. These sliders transform a traditional open-faced dish into bite-sized appetizers perfect for any gathering. With layers of turkey, fresh tomatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Ideal for game day, potlucks, or family dinners, these sliders will surely impress your guests with their rich taste and inviting aroma.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, these sliders are perfect for last-minute cravings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, dinner, or even at parties. They fit any occasion.
- Flavor-Packed Ingredients: The combination of cheeses, turkey, and bacon creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap ingredients based on personal preference.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings per recipe, they’re great for feeding a group without much fuss.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders successfully. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and cooking time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and easy serving of your sliders.
- Medium saucepan: Perfect for preparing the cheesy sauce that ties the whole dish together.
- Whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly for a creamy texture in the cheese sauce.
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 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour in 1 cup of whole milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg.
- Add shredded white cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese; stir until melted and creamy.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the package of King’s Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish.
- Layer sliced turkey evenly over the rolls.
- Add tomato slices on top of the turkey.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top.
Step 3: Finish Assembling
- Place the top half of the rolls back onto the slider assembly.
- Brush melted butter over the tops of the rolls and sprinkle with garlic salt and chopped parsley.
- Pour any remaining cheese sauce over the top if desired.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders warm from the oven!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are perfect for any gathering, from casual parties to festive celebrations. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.
Game Day Delight
- Pair the sliders with your favorite football snacks for a complete game day spread.
- Serve alongside chips and dip for a crunchy contrast to the creamy sliders.
Family Gatherings
- Place the sliders on a large platter for family-style sharing.
- Add a fresh salad on the side to brighten up the meal.
Cocktail Parties
- Cut the sliders into smaller pieces for bite-sized appetizers.
- Offer a variety of sauces like ranch and BBQ for dipping options.
Potluck Perfection
- Bring Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders to your next potluck event for a crowd-pleaser.
- Provide toothpicks for easy serving and eating.

How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To ensure your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes enhance flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Cheese Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce to prevent it from becoming too thick or lumpy.
- Toast the Rolls Slightly: Lightly toasting the rolls adds a nice texture and prevents sogginess.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses for varied flavors, such as gouda or mozzarella.
- Add Heat if Desired: A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick to your cheese sauce.
- Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing sliders to sit for a few minutes helps meld the flavors together.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Pairing side dishes with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw complements the richness of the sliders perfectly.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with garlic salt make for a hearty side.
- Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds freshness and balance to your meal.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy pasta salad is always a favorite at gatherings, adding a comforting touch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil bring color and nutrition to your plate.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with savory sliders, offering a delightful contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can be simple, but several common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Skipping the cheese sauce: The homemade cheese sauce is what makes these sliders special. Don’t skip it; it adds creaminess and flavor.
-
Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Always use fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls for the best texture and taste in your sliders.
-
Overcooking bacon: Crispy bacon is great, but overcooked bacon can become too hard. Cook just until crispy and crumbled.
-
Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget about spices like garlic salt and nutmeg. A little seasoning elevates the flavor significantly.
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Crowding the baking dish: Ensure there’s enough space between sliders when baking. This helps them cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze them for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
-
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake wrapped sliders for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
-
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
-
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter and heat each slider for a few minutes on each side until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:
What can I substitute for turkey in Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
You can use chicken or even ham as alternatives. Both will work well with the cheese sauce and other ingredients.
Can I make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sliders up to one day in advance and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders suitable for gatherings?
Absolutely! These sliders are perfect for parties or game days because they are easy to serve and eat.
How do I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or different cheeses. You can also adjust the amount of bacon based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders combine comfort food with versatility, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Their rich flavors deliver satisfaction, while you can customize them easily with your favorite ingredients. Try this delightful recipe at your next gathering!

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a scrumptious twist on the beloved classic hot brown sandwich, transforming a traditional open-faced dish into bite-sized delights perfect for any gathering. These sliders are layered with tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, delivering a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether for game day, potlucks, or casual family dinners, these sliders are sure to impress your guests with their rich taste and inviting aroma.
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
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour in 1 cup of whole milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg.
- Add shredded white cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese; stir until melted and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the package of King's Hawaiian Rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish.
- Layer sliced turkey evenly over the rolls.
- Add tomato slices on top of the turkey.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top.
- Place the top half of the rolls back onto the slider assembly.
- Brush melted butter over the tops of the rolls and sprinkle with garlic salt and chopped parsley.
- Pour any remaining cheese sauce over the top if desired.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 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: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg