Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders: Southern Comfort, Party-Perfect Size

I can’t thank you enough for being here—it truly means the world to me to share these kinds of recipes with you. Today, I’m bringing a bite-sized twist on a Kentucky classic that’s perfect for parties, game days, or just when you’re craving something outrageously comforting: Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders. Right after the H1, let me say it again—Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are everything you love about the legendary open-faced sandwich, tucked into a buttery slider bun and baked to golden, cheesy perfection.

If this sounds like your kind of comfort food (and how could it not?!), don’t forget to subscribe below to get this recipe and more crave-worthy favorites delivered right to your inbox.

What Are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

Think of these sliders as the cozy little cousins of the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown, a rich, open-faced sandwich created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville in the 1920s. Traditionally, the Hot Brown includes roasted turkey, crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a luscious Mornay (cheese) sauce, broiled until bubbly and golden.

In slider form, we tuck all that magic between soft, pull-apart dinner rolls, add a brush of seasoned buttery topping, and bake it all into gooey, melty heaven.

Reasons to Love These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

• Perfect for feeding a crowd – 12 sliders in one go? Yes, please.

• All the classic Hot Brown flavor, made easy and portable.

• Make-ahead friendly, ideal for entertaining.

• Oven-baked for ease – no broiler juggling required.

• Sweet, salty, cheesy, savory—every bite is pure comfort.

What Do They Taste Like?

Picture this: juicy sliced turkey layered with smoky bacon, topped with melty cheddar and a creamy cheese sauce that seeps into every corner of a soft, warm roll. Add the sweetness of a roasted tomato slice and a final brush of herbed butter on top… and yeah, you’re going to need a napkin (or five).

Health & Comfort Benefits

Okay, so maybe this isn’t your kale salad, but there are still perks here:

• Protein-packed from turkey and cheese.

• Customizable for lighter versions (swap for low-fat cheese, turkey bacon, etc.).

• Great for portion control – one or two sliders go a long way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sliders:

• 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls or slider buns

• ¾ lb sliced roasted turkey breast (deli or homemade)

• 6 slices cooked bacon, cut in half

• 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar (or Swiss cheese)

• 1 large tomato, thinly sliced

For the Mornay Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 1 cup whole milk

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but amazing)

For the Topping:

• 3 tablespoons melted butter

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Tools You’ll Need

• Small saucepan (for the sauce)

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Serrated knife (to slice rolls)

• Whisk

• Pastry brush or spoon

Ingredient Additions and Swaps

Want to mix it up?

• Use Swiss or Gruyère instead of cheddar for a more traditional touch.

• Swap bacon for prosciutto for an upscale twist.

• Add a little hot sauce to the Mornay for a spicy kick.

• Go low-carb with mini lettuce wraps instead of rolls (still delicious!).

How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Mornay sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. Prep the buns: Slice the entire slab of rolls in half horizontally (keep them connected). Place bottom half in the baking dish.

4. Assemble: Layer turkey, tomato slices, spoonfuls of Mornay sauce, bacon, and shredded cheese evenly. Add the top half of rolls.

5. Butter topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, Dijon, and parsley. Brush liberally over the tops of the rolls.

6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melty and tops are golden brown.

7. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite!

What to Serve with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

These sliders are rich and satisfying, so pair them with something fresh or light:

• Crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Pickled vegetables or a tangy coleslaw

• Sweet potato fries or baked chips

• Iced sweet tea or a bourbon cocktail for the full Kentucky experience!

Tips for the Best Sliders

• Use high-quality turkey—roasted or smoked deli turkey is best.

• Let the Mornay sauce cool slightly so it’s spreadable, not runny.

• Line the baking dish with parchment for easier cleanup.

• Cover loosely with foil if tops brown too fast in the oven.

How to Store & Reheat

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat covered in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.

Freezing tip: Wrap cooled sliders individually in foil, freeze up to 1 month, then reheat in foil at 325°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add the butter topping just before baking.

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely—Swiss, Gruyère, or provolone are great options.

Do I need to make the Mornay sauce?
It’s traditional and SO worth it, but in a pinch, you could use a cheese spread or thin cheese slices.

Can I use leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
YES. These are phenomenal with leftover roasted turkey.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Sliders

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are everything we love about Southern comfort food—cheesy, savory, satisfying—and made mini for easy sharing. Whether you’re bringing a tray to a potluck or making a cozy weekend lunch, these sliders bring serious flavor with very little fuss.

Want more irresistible Southern-style sliders? Try:

• Pimento Cheese Sliders

• BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders

• Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders

Share Your Slider Love!

Made these Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders? I want to see your creations! Snap a photo, tag me on Pinterest, and leave a review below—I LOVE hearing from you.

Nutritional Info (Per Slider – Approximate)

• Calories: 270

• Protein: 14g

• Carbs: 19g

• Fat: 15g

• Sodium: 480mg

• Sugar: 4g

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 sliders 1x

See also  Kentucky Hot Brown

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Description

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are everything you love about the legendary open-faced sandwich, tucked into a buttery slider bun and baked to golden, cheesy perfection. Southern comfort in a party-perfect size—what’s not to love?

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls or slider buns
• ¾ lb sliced roasted turkey breast (deli or homemade)
• 6 slices cooked bacon, cut in half
• 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar (or Swiss cheese)
• 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
• For the Mornay Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• For the Topping:
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Mornay sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Slice the entire slab of rolls in half horizontally (keep them connected). Place bottom half in the baking dish.
4. Layer turkey, tomato slices, spoonfuls of Mornay sauce, bacon, and shredded cheese evenly. Add the top half of rolls.
5. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, Dijon, and parsley. Brush liberally over the tops of the rolls.
6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melty and tops are golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite!

Notes

Let the Mornay sauce cool slightly before assembling to avoid soggy buns. Use parchment for easier cleanup and cover loosely with foil if browning too fast.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slider
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Protein: 14g

Keywords: kentucky hot brown sliders, party sliders, cheesy turkey sliders