Derby Hot Brown Sliders

Featured in: Weekend Comfort Plates

Enjoy these Derby Hot Brown Sliders featuring tender roast turkey and crispy bacon layered on soft brioche buns. A rich Mornay sauce made with Gruyère and Parmesan adds creamy depth, while tomato slices contribute fresh brightness. Lightly brushed with butter and baked until golden, these sliders offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures ideal for parties or casual get-togethers.

The preparation starts with creating a velvety cheese sauce that enhances each bite, followed by assembling layers of savory ingredients on pillowy buns. A quick bake melts the flavors together, completing a dish that's both elegant and approachable. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a subtle herbal note and added richness.

Updated on Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:18:15 GMT
Golden brioche sliders layered with roast turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce for a Kentucky Derby party treat. Save
Golden brioche sliders layered with roast turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce for a Kentucky Derby party treat. | meanwhilerecipe.com

Miniature versions of the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich, these Derby Party Hot Brown Sliders on Brioche Buns bring a festive and flavorful twist to your appetizer spread. Featuring layers of roast turkey, crispy bacon, and a luscious creamy Mornay sauce nestled inside soft, pillowy brioche buns, these sliders are perfect for celebrating the Kentucky Derby or any gathering where Southern comfort food shines.

Golden brioche sliders layered with roast turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce for a Kentucky Derby party treat. Save
Golden brioche sliders layered with roast turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce for a Kentucky Derby party treat. | meanwhilerecipe.com

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These sliders are more than just a bite-sized version of a classic; they bring a touch of Southern elegance and comfort all in one flavorful package. Whether you’re hosting a Derby party or a casual get-together, their ease of assembly and impressive taste will make these a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

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  • For the Sliders
    • 12 brioche slider buns
    • 12 slices roasted turkey breast
    • 12 slices cooked bacon
    • 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
    • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • For the Mornay Sauce
    • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
    • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or sharp white cheddar)
    • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • For Garnish
    • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
    • 1/4 cup extra Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Mornay sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth and thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
3. Slice the brioche buns in half. Place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Layer each bun bottom with a slice of roast turkey, a tomato slice, a spoonful of Mornay sauce, and a slice of crispy bacon.
5. Place the bun tops on each slider. Brush tops lightly with melted butter.
6. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the sliders, if desired.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the buns are golden and the filling is warmed through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Mornay sauce to introduce a subtle spicy kick that complements the rich cheese sauce. Be sure to melt the butter evenly in the saucepan to prevent lumps in your sauce for a perfectly smooth texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute the roast turkey with smoked turkey or deli ham for a different twist on this classic. You can also vary the cheeses by using sharp white cheddar instead of Gruyère to suit your flavor preference. Adding a bit of crispy lettuce inside the slider provides a fresh crunch if desired.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these sliders alongside traditional Southern sides such as fried green tomatoes, collard greens, or a fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving to save prep time during your event.

Save
| meanwhilerecipe.com

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these Derby Party Hot Brown Sliders make an elegant yet easy appetizer that captures the spirit of Southern hospitality. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, they offer a delicious and inviting bite that everyone will enjoy.

Recipe FAQ

What makes the Mornay sauce special for these sliders?

The Mornay sauce combines Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses with cream and butter to create a smooth, flavorful cheese sauce that adds richness and moisture to the sliders.

Can I use different types of bread for the sliders?

While brioche buns offer a soft, slightly sweet base, you can substitute with other soft rolls that hold up well to baking and layering.

How should the sliders be served for best flavor?

Serve these sliders warm, fresh out of the oven, garnished with parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan to highlight the creamy and savory elements.

Is it possible to prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Mornay sauce and assemble the sliders in advance, then bake them right before serving to retain freshness.

What are good side options to accompany these sliders?

Pair with classic Southern sides, fresh green salads, or simple vegetable dishes to complement the rich flavors in the sliders.

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Derby Hot Brown Sliders

Savory sliders featuring turkey, bacon, and cheese sauce on soft brioche buns for festive gatherings.

Time to Prepare
20 mins
Time to Cook
25 mins
Complete Time
45 mins
Created by Meanwhilerecipe Clara Bennett

Recipe Category Weekend Comfort Plates

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American Southern

Makes 12 Number of Servings

Diet Considerations None specified

Ingredient List

Sliders

01 12 brioche slider buns
02 12 slices roasted turkey breast
03 12 slices cooked bacon
04 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
05 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted for brushing

Mornay Sauce

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
03 1 cup whole milk
04 1/2 cup heavy cream
05 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese or sharp white cheddar
06 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
07 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

01 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
02 1/4 cup extra Parmesan cheese optional

Steps

Step 01

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Create Mornay Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cream while whisking until smooth and thickened, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 03

Prepare Brioche Buns: Slice the brioche buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 04

Layer Slider Components: On each bun bottom, layer one slice of roasted turkey, one slice of tomato, one spoonful of Mornay sauce, and one slice of crispy bacon in sequence.

Step 05

Top and Brush: Place the bun tops on each slider. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter.

Step 06

Optional Cheese Topping: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the sliders if desired.

Step 07

Bake Sliders: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the buns are golden brown and the filling is warmed through.

Step 08

Finish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve while warm.

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Tools Needed

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Pastry brush

Allergy Notes

Examine all food items for allergens and consult your doctor for concerns.
  • Contains milk
  • Contains wheat gluten
  • Contains eggs from brioche
  • May contain tree nuts if present in brioche or cheese
  • Contains poultry and pork from turkey and bacon

Nutrition Info (per portion)

These details are meant for reference, not as a substitute for medical guidance.
  • Energy (Calories): 280
  • Fats: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 15 g

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