Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic open-faced sandwich. This recipe transforms the traditional dish into bite-sized wonders perfect for any gathering. With layers of turkey, fresh tomatoes, rich cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, these sliders are sure to please any crowd. They are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile, making them ideal for parties, game days, or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of cheeses, turkey, and bacon creates a mouthwatering taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or a casual dinner, these sliders fit right in.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves sliders! They’re perfect for sharing and satisfying.
- Customizable: You can modify the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and keeps your sliders together.
- Saucepan: Perfect for making your creamy cheese sauce without burning it.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly while preventing lumps in your 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 saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth.
- Add kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir until thickened.
- Remove from heat and mix in white cheddar cheese and parmesan until melted.
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 entirely.
- Place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Layer with turkey slices followed by tomato slices and crumbled bacon.
- Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the layers.
Step 3: Bake the Sliders
- Brush melted unsalted butter over the top halves of the rolls.
- Sprinkle with garlic salt and fresh parsley.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until golden brown.
These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve warm and watch them disappear fast!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, making them perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these sliders can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.
Casual Gatherings
- Serve with a variety of dips: Pair your sliders with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
- Offer a side of pickles: Crispy pickles add a tangy crunch that complements the rich flavors of the sliders.
Game Day
- Create a slider platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter with toothpicks for easy serving during the game.
- Add some chips: Serve alongside potato chips or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
Family Dinners
- Include a fresh salad: A simple green salad can provide balance to the richness of the sliders.
- Make it a buffet: Set up a build-your-own slider station where guests can customize their toppings.
Parties
- Accompany with cocktails: Pair with classic cocktails like mimosas or bourbon lemonade for an adult twist.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top before serving for added color and flavor.

How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To achieve the best Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, follow these simple tips. They will ensure every bite is as delicious as possible.
- cheese choice: Use high-quality white cheddar for rich flavor and meltability.
- Ensure fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh tomatoes and herbs to enhance taste.
- Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on sliders while baking; you want them golden brown but not overcooked.
- Customize toppings: Feel free to add jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.
- Adjust portion sizes: Make smaller sliders if serving at a cocktail party to encourage mingling.
- Let them rest before serving: Allow sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps them hold together better when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Pairing delicious sides with your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders will elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy coleslaw provides contrast to the creamy sliders.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs well with turkey.
- Baked Beans: A hearty side that adds warmth and comfort to your meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks complement the cheesy goodness of the sliders perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutritional value and vibrant flavors.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of the sliders.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
- Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit provides a light, refreshing contrast to heavier dishes like sliders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, it’s easy to go wrong. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them:
- Skipping the cheese sauce: Not using a homemade cheese sauce can lead to dry sliders. Take the time to make it; it adds creaminess and flavor.
- Overcooking the bacon: Cooking bacon too long makes it hard and chewy. Aim for crispy but not overly brittle slices for the best texture in your sliders.
- Using stale rolls: Using old or stale rolls can ruin the sliders. Always choose fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls for that soft, sweet taste.
- Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season each layer leads to bland flavors. Make sure to season your turkey and cheese sauce well.
- Not layering ingredients properly: Layering ingredients unevenly can result in uneven cooking. Ensure even distribution of turkey, tomatoes, and cheese sauce for consistent flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover 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 them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30-45 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of butter, and cook sliders until warm and slightly crispy on both sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders:
What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are bite-sized versions of the classic open-faced sandwich, featuring turkey, tomatoes, cheese sauce, and bacon.
Can I use different meats in Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Absolutely! While turkey is traditional, you can use chicken or even ham based on your preference.
How do I make my cheese sauce extra creamy?
To enhance creaminess, consider adding more cheese or using half-and-half instead of milk for a richer sauce.
Are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders suitable for parties?
Yes! These sliders make fantastic appetizers for gatherings or game days due to their delicious flavor and ease of serving.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic sandwich that everyone will love. Their rich flavors and creamy textures make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or using different meats—your creativity will surely impress your guests!

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a scrumptious twist on the beloved classic open-faced sandwich. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, featuring layers of tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon. Not only are they packed with flavor, but their versatility makes them ideal for parties, game days, or family dinners. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers that are sure to leave everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup 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 (sliced)
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced)
- 8 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour for about 1 minute; whisk in milk until smooth. Add seasonings and cheeses until melted.
- Assemble the sliders: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice rolls horizontally and layer turkey, tomatoes, and bacon in a baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over the top.
- Bake: Brush tops with melted butter and seasonings. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (approximately 89g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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