Derby Hot Brown Sliders (Printable)

Mini sliders featuring roast turkey, bacon, creamy cheese sauce, and pillowy brioche buns, perfect for parties.

# Required Ingredients:

→ For the 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

→ For the 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 Gruyère cheese or sharp white cheddar
11 - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ For Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
16 - 1/4 cup extra Parmesan cheese, optional

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère cheese, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until cheese is fully melted and sauce achieves smooth consistency.
03 - Slice brioche buns horizontally in half. Arrange bottom halves on prepared baking sheet.
04 - Layer each bun bottom with one slice roasted turkey, one slice tomato, one spoonful Mornay sauce, and one slice crispy bacon in sequence.
05 - Position bun tops onto each slider. Brush tops lightly with melted butter.
06 - Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over sliders if desired.
07 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until buns achieve golden color and filling is heated through.
08 - Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Perfectly portioned sliders ideal for parties and gatherings
  • Rich, creamy Mornay sauce made with Gruyère and Parmesan
  • Classic Southern flavors in an easy-to-eat format
  • Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish
  • Impressive presentation that celebrates Kentucky tradition
02 -
  • Make the Mornay sauce smooth by whisking constantly and removing any lumps immediately
  • Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor
  • Brush the bun tops with melted butter for a beautiful golden finish
  • Don't skip the parchment paper—it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
  • Warm the turkey slightly before assembling for even heating throughout
  • Let the sliders rest for 2-3 minutes after baking so the sauce sets slightly
Go Back