Irresistible Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders You Need to Try Now

Looking for a hearty, savory dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to please everyone? These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are the ultimate comfort food made simple. Perfect for family dinners, party trays, or lunchbox meals, this slider recipe transforms a Southern classic into a baked mini sandwich that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. Inspired by the legendary Hot Brown sandwich from Kentucky’s historic Brown Hotel, this version uses Hawaiian rolls to hold layers of turkey, bacon, creamy sauce, and melted cheese—all baked to golden perfection.

Whether you’re hosting game day or meal prepping for the week, these lunch meat sliders are a must-try for anyone who loves delicious, homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen.

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What Are Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

The Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich was originally created in the 1920s. It’s an open-faced, oven-broiled dish consisting of turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce. These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders take the same flavors and transform them into a bite-sized baked sandwich using soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls. This version is easier to make, requires no fork or knife, and is perfect for gatherings.

What’s more, it blends classic hot sandwich recipes with a party-friendly presentation, creating a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients for Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

To replicate this delicious slider at home, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
• 1 pound oven-roasted turkey breast, thinly sliced
• 6 slices cooked turkey bacon, chopped
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

The combination of creamy, salty, and sweet in these sliders is part of what makes them so addictive.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Preparation will be smooth with these tools on hand:

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or spoon
• Aluminum foil
• Oven mitts

How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
2. Prepare Rolls: Slice the entire sheet of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating the rolls. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
3. Layer the Filling: Add the turkey slices evenly, then sprinkle the chopped bacon on top.
4. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture over the turkey and bacon layer.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.
6. Top It Off: Place the top half of the rolls back on and brush with melted butter.
7. Bake Covered: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
8. Finish Baking: Remove foil and bake uncovered for 5–7 minutes, until the tops are golden.
9. Serve: Let rest for 3–5 minutes before cutting and serving.

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Tips for Making the Best Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

• Always use fresh Hawaiian rolls for optimal texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip the sauce—it ties the flavors together and adds creaminess.
• For extra richness, sprinkle more Parmesan on top before baking.
• Try broiling for 1–2 minutes at the end if you want the tops extra crisp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold ingredients: Room temperature ingredients melt more evenly.
• Not covering the dish initially: This can lead to dry rolls and uneven melting.
• Overloading the sliders: Too much filling can cause sogginess.
• Skipping rest time: The sliders need a few minutes to firm up before serving.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve your Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders warm, cut into individual portions. Arrange them on a large platter with decorative picks or skewers for easy serving. Add some color with a sprinkle of chopped parsley. If you’re looking for a side, consider light options like a mason jar Greek salad with chickpeas or chili lime roasted chickpeas.

What to Serve With Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Balance these rich sliders with fresh or crunchy sides:

• A refreshing zucchini noodle caprese
• A sweet bite like grilled peaches with ice cream
• For a snacky twist, serve with grilled teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs

Serve with lemonade, iced tea, or fruit-infused water for a refreshing combo.

How to Store Leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

If you have leftovers:

• Wrap sliders individually in foil or place in an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a preheated 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes. This helps maintain the texture.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rolls soggy.

Variations on Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

• Swap turkey with rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken strips.
• Use Swiss or provolone instead of mozzarella.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a gourmet touch.
• Try a garlic herb butter topping for extra flavor.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free slider buns.

Related Recipes to Try Next

Craving more crowd-pleasing sliders or easy meals? Try these reader favorites:

• Arby’s Beef N Cheddar Sliders – A meaty twist with melted cheddar
• Sheet Pan Shrimp Fajitas – A flavorful family-friendly weeknight dinner
• Bunless Burger Recipe – Low-carb and delicious
• Berry Yogurt Bark – A light, healthy dessert option

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Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.

Are these sliders spicy?
Not at all, but you can add a dash of cayenne to the sauce if you prefer heat.

Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, freeze unbaked sliders wrapped tightly. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the bake time.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Any lean, cooked poultry will work beautifully.

Conclusion: Share the Comfort, Save the Recipe

These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are everything you want in a comfort food—cheesy, creamy, easy, and packed with savory flavor. They’re quick to make and endlessly customizable, making them the go-to option for weeknight meals, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. Give them a try, and you’ll quickly see why they’ve become a staple on so many dinner tables.

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