Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic open-faced sandwich. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or family dinners, these sliders combine savory turkey, fresh tomatoes, and a rich homemade cheese sauce topped with crispy bacon. With their creamy texture and bold flavors, Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cheese Sauce
- For Assembly
- How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
- Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Pair with Fresh Salads
- Offer Dipping Sauces
- Serve on a Platter
- Create a Slider Bar
- How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Reheating Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
- Can I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
- How do I make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders healthier?
- What sides pair well with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders without breaking a sweat.
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of turkey, cheese sauce, and bacon delivers a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Whether for appetizers or main courses, these sliders fit perfectly into any meal setting.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, game nights, or family gatherings—everyone will want seconds!
- Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the familiar taste of a Kentucky Hot Brown in slider form—great for sharing!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ideal for layering your sliders and ensuring even cooking.
- Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the creamy cheese sauce that binds all the flavors together.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your cheese sauce without lumps.
- Knife: Essential for slicing tomatoes and turkey evenly.
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 Assembly
- 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:
1. Melt the unsalted butter.
2. Stir in the flour until well combined.
3. Gradually add the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg; mix well.
5. Once thickened, stir in white cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
In a baking dish:
1. Cut the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
2. Place the bottom halves in the baking dish.
3. Layer with turkey slices, tomato slices, and crumbled bacon evenly across the rolls.
4. Pour the warm cheese sauce over all ingredients.
5. Brush melted unsalted butter over the top halves of the rolls.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
1. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a versatile dish that can elevate any gathering. Whether it’s a game day or a casual get-together, serving these sliders can impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions:
Pair with Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy and creamy contrast to the sliders.
- Caprese Salad: The fresh mozzarella and basil enhance the flavors of the sliders.
Offer Dipping Sauces
- Spicy Mayo: A kick of spice complements the rich cheese sauce.
- Ranch Dressing: A cool ranch dip pairs well with the savory bacon and turkey.
Serve on a Platter
- Garnished with Herbs: Present the sliders on a platter adorned with fresh parsley for an appealing look.
- With Pickles: Adding pickles gives a tangy crunch that balances out the richness of the sliders.
Create a Slider Bar
- Customization Station: Allow guests to add their toppings like jalapeños or extra cheese, making it interactive and fun!
- Beverage Pairing Suggestions: Offer drinks like iced tea or craft beers that go well with the flavors of Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders.

How to Perfect Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
To make your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders truly remarkable, consider these tips. They will help you achieve perfect flavor and texture every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh turkey and ripe tomatoes improve taste and texture significantly.
- Make Cheese Sauce Ahead of Time: Preparing the cheese sauce in advance allows for easier assembly when you’re ready to serve.
- Toast the Rolls Lightly: Lightly toasting Hawaiian rolls creates a delightful crispness that holds up well against fillings.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses can add depth; consider using gouda or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Add Heat with Spices: If you like spice, incorporate cayenne pepper into your cheese sauce for a kick.
- Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing sliders to rest for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together.
Best Side Dishes for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Serving Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders is even better with delicious side dishes. These accompaniments will round out your meal perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich sliders.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness pairs excellently with savory flavors, providing balance.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and complements hearty dishes nicely.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and pairs well with barbecue flavors.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans enhance the overall taste experience of your slider feast.
- Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies provide a light option that balances out richer foods while adding color to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders, a few common missteps can prevent your dish from shining. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the cheese sauce: The homemade cheese sauce is essential for flavor. Don’t rush this step; take your time to create a creamy texture.
- Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Stale rolls can ruin the sliders’ taste. Always use fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls for the best results.
- Overcooking the bacon: While crispy bacon is great, overcooking can make it too hard. Cook it just right so it adds flavor without being chewy.
- Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoned sliders can taste bland. Ensure you follow the seasoning measurements closely for a delicious bite.
- Inadequate layering: Layering ingredients properly enhances flavor and texture. Don’t skimp on the turkey or tomatoes; they are key components of the sliders.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Wrap sliders individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen 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 warm.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a paper towel and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sliders in the skillet, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes per side until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders that may help you further:
What are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are miniature versions of the classic open-faced sandwich, featuring turkey, cheese sauce, and toppings nestled in soft rolls.
Can I customize my Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different meats like ham or roast beef, or experiment with various cheeses based on your preference.
How do I make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders healthier?
You can use whole grain rolls and low-fat cheese options. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
What sides pair well with Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?
Consider serving these sliders with a fresh salad or crispy sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any gathering or as a comforting family meal. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors according to your tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cozy culinary experience!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintKentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a mouthwatering twist on the beloved open-faced sandwich. These mini sandwiches combine savory turkey, fresh tomatoes, and a rich homemade cheese sauce, all topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, these sliders deliver bold flavors and creamy textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound turkey breast (sliced)
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 12-count King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 8–10 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cheeses until melted.
- Assemble the sliders: Cut rolls in half and layer turkey, tomatoes, and bacon on the bottom halves. Pour cheese sauce over the top and brush melted butter on the top halves.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (approx. 90g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg





