Derby Day Hot Brown Sliders (Printer View)

Mini burgers with turkey, bacon, Mornay sauce on soft rolls, ideal for parties and celebrations.

# Components:

→ Sliders

01 - 12 soft slider rolls, such as Hawaiian rolls or brioche
02 - 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
03 - 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and halved
04 - 1 cup Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ 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 shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
11 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
13 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

# Method:

01 - Set oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
02 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Cook, whisking continuously, until thickened, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
03 - Split slider rolls horizontally and place bottom halves in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
04 - Distribute turkey evenly over roll bases, followed by tomato slices and bacon pieces.
05 - Pour Mornay sauce evenly over assembled layers. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
06 - Position top halves of rolls over filling.
07 - Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
08 - Remove foil and bake an additional 5 to 7 minutes until tops are lightly browned and cheese is bubbling.
09 - Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Party-perfect portions that are easy to serve and eat at any festive gathering
  • Rich, creamy Mornay sauce that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary
  • Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
  • Combines the beloved flavors of Kentucky's iconic Hot Brown sandwich in slider form
  • Feeds a crowd with 12 generous sliders perfect for Derby Day celebrations
02 -
  • Use day-old slider rolls for better structure—they won't get as soggy from the sauce
  • Cook your bacon until very crisp; it needs to hold up against the moisture of the sauce and tomatoes
  • Don't skip the nutmeg in the Mornay sauce—it adds an essential warmth and depth
  • Let the sliders rest for 2–3 minutes after baking so the sauce sets slightly, making them easier to serve
  • Make the Mornay sauce ahead and gently reheat it before assembling for easier party prep
Return