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Derby Day Hot Brown Sliders
Derby Day Hot Brown Sliders are a delicious, bite-sized twist on a legendary Southern classic. Inspired by the original Hot Brown sandwich created in Kentucky in the 1920s, this version transforms the rich, open-faced favorite into warm, handheld sliders perfect for parties and gatherings.
These sliders capture everything that makes the original so memorable—tender roasted turkey, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy Mornay sauce—all layered inside soft rolls and finished under the broiler until golden and bubbling. The result is a comforting, indulgent dish that feels both nostalgic and perfect for modern entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers big flavor in a small package. Each slider is rich, savory, and satisfying, making them ideal for serving at events where guests want something easy to grab and enjoy.
They’re also surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few steps and basic kitchen tools, you can create a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better. Plus, they can be assembled ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy hosts.
Ingredients
For the Mornay Sauce:
3 tablespoons (45 g) unsalted butter
3 tablespoons (24 g) all-purpose flour
1½ cups (360 ml) warm whole milk
½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup (30 g) shredded white cheddar cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper
Pinch of nutmeg
For the Sliders:
12 slider buns (brioche or potato rolls)
12 oz (340 g) roasted turkey, thinly sliced
8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and halved
1 medium tomato, sliced into thin rounds
2 tablespoons (30 g) melted butter
Optional: chopped parsley or chives, paprika for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preparing your oven. Set the broiler to high and position the rack a few inches below the heat source. Line a baking sheet with foil to make cleanup easier.
To make the Mornay sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about one to two minutes until a smooth paste forms. Slowly add the warm milk and cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan and cheddar cheese. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat and keep warm.
For extra flavor and texture, lightly toast the slider buns. Brush the cut sides with melted butter and place them under the broiler for about 30 seconds, just until lightly golden.
Now it’s time to assemble the sliders. Place the bottom halves of the buns on the baking sheet. Add a layer of sliced turkey to each, followed by crispy bacon and a slice of tomato. Spoon a generous amount of warm Mornay sauce over each slider, allowing it to slightly cover the edges.
Place the assembled sliders under the broiler for two to three minutes. Watch closely as the sauce becomes bubbly and develops a golden top. Remove from the oven once they reach a lightly browned finish.
Finish by adding the top buns or serve open-faced for a more traditional presentation. Garnish with a light sprinkle of paprika and fresh herbs if desired, then serve immediately while warm.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are perfect for parties, especially events like game days or themed gatherings. Serve them alongside simple sides such as chips, pickles, or a fresh salad to balance their richness.
They also work well as part of a larger appetizer spread, offering guests a warm and hearty option among lighter bites.
Tips for Best Results
Keep the Mornay sauce warm during assembly so it spreads easily and melts evenly during broiling. If it thickens too much, stir in a small amount of warm milk to loosen it.
Make sure the bacon is cooked until crisp. This ensures it retains its texture even after being topped with sauce and heated.
Avoid overcooking under the broiler. The goal is to melt and brown the sauce without drying out the turkey.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best results, reheat them in the oven at a moderate temperature until warmed through.
If possible, store the components separately and assemble fresh before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce and fresh ingredients do not hold up well after thawing.
A Classic Reimagined
Derby Day Hot Brown Sliders bring a beloved classic into a modern, shareable form. They combine rich flavors, comforting textures, and an eye-catching presentation that makes them perfect for any celebration.
Once you serve these, they’re sure to become a favorite—offering a taste of tradition in every bite.