Kentucky Derby Hot Brown Sliders (Printer View)

Mini brioche sliders stacked with roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and luscious Mornay sauce for special occasions.

# What you'll need:

→ Sliders

01 - 12 mini brioche slider buns, sliced
02 - 12 slices roasted turkey breast, approximately 14 ounces
03 - 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and halved
04 - 2 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
05 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for toasting buns

→ Mornay Sauce

06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
08 - 1 cup whole milk
09 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
10 - 1 cup grated sharp white cheddar cheese
11 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
16 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, optional

# Method:

01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbling but not browned. Slowly add milk and cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until thickened, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
02 - Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and keep warm.
03 - In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Place the cut sides of brioche slider buns down and toast until golden brown, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.
04 - Place bottom halves of toasted buns on a baking sheet. Layer each with one slice of turkey, one tomato slice, and 1 tablespoon of Mornay sauce. Top with one half slice of bacon.
05 - Preheat broiler. Slide the assembled bottoms without tops under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is bubbly and lightly golden.
06 - Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and smoked paprika if desired. Top each slider with the upper half of the brioche bun.
07 - Serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect party size—miniature sliders are easier to eat and serve than traditional open-faced sandwiches
  • Rich and indulgent flavors from the creamy Mornay sauce, savory turkey, and crispy bacon
  • Pillowy brioche buns add a touch of elegance and buttery sweetness
  • Ready in just 45 minutes, making them ideal for entertaining
  • A true taste of Kentucky Derby tradition in every bite
02 -
  • Make the Mornay sauce up to 2 hours ahead and reheat gently before assembling
  • Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to ensure even heat distribution when broiling
  • Pat the tomato slices dry with paper towels to prevent the sliders from becoming soggy
  • Keep a close eye on the sliders while broiling—they can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly
  • For easier serving at parties, you can secure each slider with a decorative toothpick before plating
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