Transport your taste buds to the heart of Kentucky with a delectable twist on a beloved classic: Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders. These miniaturized versions of the iconic Hot Brown sandwich pack all the flavors of the original into bite-sized delights that are perfect for any gathering or occasion. From the creamy cheese sauce to the savory turkey and crispy bacon, each ingredient harmonizes to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Join us as we explore the ingredients and preparation method for this irresistible dish, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.
Ingredients:
For the Cheese Sauce:
- Salted Butter (2 Tablespoons): This ingredient forms the foundation of the cheese sauce, imparting richness and a buttery flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 Tablespoons): Serving as a thickening agent, the flour helps achieve the desired consistency for the sauce, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon), Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon), Nutmeg (pinch): These seasonings add depth and enhance the overall flavor profile of the sauce, providing a harmonious balance of savory and subtle spice.
- Whole Milk (1 cup): Acting as the liquid component, whole milk contributes to the creamy consistency of the sauce, while also providing a mild sweetness.
- Shredded Gruyere Cheese (1/2 cup): This cheese imparts a distinct nutty flavor and melts beautifully, enhancing the richness and creaminess of the sauce.
For the Sliders:
- Hawaiian Rolls (12): Known for their soft texture and slight sweetness, Hawaiian rolls serve as the ideal vessel for these savory sliders.
- Sliced Deli Turkey (1 pound): Providing a protein-rich component, sliced deli turkey adds savory flavor and a satisfying texture to the sliders.
- Crispy Cooked Bacon (12 ounces, chopped): The crispy bacon lends a delightful crunch and a smoky, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Small Tomato (12 slices): These fresh tomato slices add brightness and acidity to the sliders, balancing out the richness of the cheese and meats.
- Shredded Gruyere Cheese (1 cup): Additional shredded Gruyere cheese is sprinkled over the sliders, intensifying their cheesy goodness and contributing to their gooey texture.
For the Butter Topping:
- Salted Butter (1/2 cup, melted): The melted butter coats the tops of the sliders, infusing them with richness and flavor.
- Light Brown Sugar (2 Tablespoons, packed): Adding a touch of sweetness and caramelization, the brown sugar enhances the overall flavor profile of the sliders.
- Dijon Mustard (1/2 Tablespoon): This tangy mustard imparts a subtle kick and depth of flavor to the butter topping.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1/2 Tablespoon): Contributing savory umami notes, Worcestershire sauce elevates the flavor complexity of the topping.
- Dried Onion Flakes (1 teaspoon), Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): These aromatic ingredients infuse the butter topping with additional layers of flavor, enhancing its overall deliciousness.
Preparation Method:
1. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- Begin by melting salted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add all-purpose flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and a hint of nutmeg for added depth of flavor. Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.
- Incorporate shredded Gruyere cheese into the sauce, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the cheese sauce aside for assembly.
2. Assemble the Sliders:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish for the sliders. Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom half, and then arrange the bottom halves evenly in the baking dish, creating a sturdy base for the sliders.
- Layer slices of deli turkey, crispy chopped bacon, and small tomato slices over the bottom halves of the rolls. Sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese evenly over the toppings.
- Spread the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the toppings, ensuring thorough coverage. Place the top halves of the rolls over the assembled sliders.
3. Prepare the Butter Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine melted salted butter, packed light brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried onion flakes, and garlic powder. Blend the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Top of Form
- Generously brush the butter topping over the tops of the sliders, ensuring each one is fully coated with the flavorful mixture.
4. Bake and Serve:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Optionally, garnish with minced fresh parsley for added freshness and color.
- Serve the sliders warm, accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the sliders, enhancing their flavors with a hint of citrus brightness.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders offer a delightful twist on a classic comfort food favorite, bringing together savory turkey, crispy bacon, creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of sweetness in a convenient and irresistible package. Whether served as an appetizer at a party or enjoyed as a satisfying meal, these sliders are sure to please even the most discerning palate. With their indulgent flavors and easy preparation, they are the perfect choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to the comforting goodness of Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders today!