Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

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Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, cheesy, savory slider that embodies the rich flavors of the classic Kentucky Hot Brown. These sliders combine tender turkey, crispy bacon, and luscious sauce, all stuffed between fluffy Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings, they are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat. Treat your family and friends to a dish that offers both comfort and a touch of nostalgia.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are the epitome of comfort food. This dish is a creative spin on the traditional Hot Brown, which originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. By transforming this classic into sliders, you get the same delightful flavors in an easy-to-eat format. The combination of creamy sauce, savory turkey, and crispy bacon all nestled in sweet rolls creates a mouth-watering experience. Whether it’s for game day, a potluck, or simply a cozy dinner at home, these sliders are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 pkg. Hawaiian Savory Butter Dinner Rolls, cut in half crosswise
• 1 ½ Tbsp + 1/4 cup salted butter
• 1 ½ Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for garnish
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 8 oz. sliced deli turkey breast
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked
• 2 roma tomatoes, sliced
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

How To Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 1 ½ tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add 1 ½ tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the pan, whisking it into the butter until it forms a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.

Step 2: Make it Creamy

Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 3-5 minutes. Once it has reached your desired thickness, stir in ¼ cup of Pecorino Romano cheese, a pinch of ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the sauce from the heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, place the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls. Layer the sliced turkey over the rolls, followed by the crispy bacon, and then the fresh slices of roma tomatoes. Drizzle the creamy cheese sauce generously over the top.

Step 4: Top with Roll Halves

Place the top halves of the rolls over the assembled sliders. In a small bowl, melt the remaining ¼ cup of butter and brush it over the top of the rolls. This will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the sliders are golden brown and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle a little extra Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh chopped parsley over the top. Slice to separate the sliders, and serve warm. Enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness!

Expert Tips

• Ensure the sauce is thick enough to avoid soggy rolls; it should coat the back of a spoon.
• For a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Let the sliders rest for a couple of minutes after baking to set up before serving.
• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the turkey and cheese.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the turkey for shredded chicken or smoked turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie twist.
• For a bit of tang, add a layer of sliced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
• If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. To maintain crispness, consider reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQ

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

What can I use instead of Pecorino Romano cheese?

If you can’t find Pecorino Romano, you can substitute it with grated Parmesan cheese or any cheese that melts well.

Can I freeze Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Wrap the assembled but unbaked sliders tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to eat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Yes! Replace the turkey and bacon with your favorite plant-based deli slices and use a vegetarian cheese option. You can also include more veggies like mushrooms, peppers, or artichokes to enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders are a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering comfort and flavor in every bite. With their rich sauce, savory fillings, and golden buns, these sliders are bound to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just a comforting weeknight dinner, they are sure to be a favorite at your table. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and savor the deliciousness of these warm, cheesy sliders!