Here is a simple, easy guide to make warm, cheesy sliders for a party.
introduction
These Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders mix turkey, bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce on sweet Hawaiian rolls. They cook fast and serve a crowd. If you like warm cheesy sandwiches, try our ultimate chicken parm sandwich for a different party option.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe for a quick party snack or game-day food. It uses simple ingredients and comes together fast. Guests love the warm cheese and soft rolls. You can make it ahead and bake just before serving.
how to make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Follow these steps to build and bake the sliders. Work in order so the sauce stays warm and smooth.
Ingredients :
1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls, 1 pound sliced cooked turkey breast (use lunch meat or leftovers), 6 slices of cooked turkey bacon or beef bacon (optional but recommended), 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1 cup whole milk, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese, Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions :
Step 1: Preheat and Prep, Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper for easier cleanup., Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce, In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and stir constantly until thickened, about 3–4 minutes., Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and remove from heat. This will be your creamy cheddar Mornay-style sauce., Step 3: Assemble the Sliders, Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in your baking dish., Layer the turkey slices evenly over the bread, followed by crumbled bacon (if using), then pour the warm cheese sauce over the meat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sauce., Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer., Step 4: Butter the Tops, Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter. You can add a pinch of garlic powder or chopped parsley to the butter for extra flavor., Step 5: Bake, Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5–7 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted., Step 6: Serve, Let cool for 5 minutes, then cut and serve. These sliders are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is at its meltiest.
how to serve Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Cut the sliders between rolls and place on a platter. Serve warm so the cheese stays gooey. Offer extra napkins and pickles or coleslaw on the side. They pair well with simple salads or chips.
how to store Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
Cool leftovers to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave one plate at a time, but the roll may get soft.
tips to make Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Keep the cheese sauce warm when assembling so it pours smoothly.
- Use shredded cheese that melts well for an even layer.
- Cook the bacon ahead and drain well to avoid extra grease.
- Brush tops with butter for a golden finish.
- If rolls are very soft, toast the cut sides lightly before assembling.
variation (if any)
- Make them spicy: add a pinch of cayenne to the cheese sauce.
- Swap turkey for roast chicken or ham.
- Use Swiss or Gruyère with the cheddar for a richer flavor.
- Make mini version using smaller rolls.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cool and store in the fridge up to 2 days. Rewarm slowly on low heat and whisk before using.
Q: Can I use low-fat milk?
A: You can, but the sauce may be less rich. Whole milk gives a creamier result.
Q: Are these freezer friendly?
A: Assembled sliders can be frozen before baking for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge, then bake covered and finish uncovered.
Q: Can I skip the bacon?
A: Yes. The sliders still taste great with just turkey and cheese sauce.
Q: How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?
A: Avoid too much sauce on the bread and serve soon after baking. Toasting the bottom roll lightly helps.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivorous
Description
Warm, cheesy sliders packed with turkey, bacon, and creamy cheddar on sweet Hawaiian rolls, perfect for parties.
Ingredients
- 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 1 pound sliced cooked turkey breast
- 6 slices cooked turkey bacon or beef bacon (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and stir until thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble the sliders: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in your baking dish. Layer turkey slices evenly over the bread, followed by bacon (if using), then pour the warm cheese sauce over the meat. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
- Butter the tops: Brush the top of the rolls with melted butter, adding garlic powder or parsley to the butter if desired.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then cut and serve warm.
Notes
Serve with extra napkins and sides like pickles or chips. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
