The Kentucky Derby isn’t just about the “fastest two minutes in sports”—it’s also a time-honored tradition filled with Southern hospitality, festive gatherings, and, of course, incredible food. If you can’t make it to Churchill Downs, hosting a Derby party at home is the next best thing. And no celebration is complete without the classic flavors of Louisville.
From the refreshing Mint Julep to the indulgent Kentucky Hot Brown and the sweet, nutty Derby Pie Bars, these three iconic dishes are a must for any Derby party. Whether you're a lifelong Louisvillian or just looking to bring a taste of Kentucky to your home, these recipes will make you feel like you're right in the heart of the Bluegrass State.
Let’s dive into these delicious, crowd-pleasing favorites and get your Derby spread ready!
1. Classic Mint Julep** 🍹
The official drink of the Kentucky Derby!
**Ingredients:**
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 8–10 fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
**Instructions:**
1. Muddle mint leaves and simple syrup in a glass.
2. Fill the glass with crushed ice and pour bourbon over it.
3. Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of mint.
🔹 **Pro Tip:** Serve in a silver julep cup for an authentic touch!
2. Hot Brown Sliders** 🥪
A mini version of Louisville’s famous **Hot Brown** sandwich!
**Ingredients:**
- 12 Hawaiian slider buns
- 1 lb turkey (sliced)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 1 cup Mornay sauce (butter, flour, milk, and cheese)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange slider buns in a baking dish, layer turkey, cheese, and bacon.
3. Pour Mornay sauce over sliders and sprinkle with Parmesan & paprika.
4. Bake for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
🔹 **Pro Tip:** Serve with a side of bourbon-infused mustard!
3. Derby Pie Bars** 🥧
A bite-sized take on **Kentucky Derby Pie**, a chocolate-walnut delight!
**Ingredients:**
- 1 refrigerated pie crust
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Press pie crust into a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix sugar, syrup, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts.
4. Pour over crust and bake for 30–35 minutes.
5. Cool, slice into bars, and enjoy!
🔹 **Pro Tip:** Serve with bourbon whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Enjoy your **Kentucky Derby party** with these classic, delicious recipes! 🏇🥂