As the sun shines bright on the first Saturday in May, racing fans and foodies alike come together to celebrate the Kentucky Derby. The excitement builds as horses thunder down the track, but what really gets our taste buds racing are the delicious dishes served alongside the action. Whether you’re hosting a party at home or attending an event at the Derby itself, having flavorful recipes up your sleeve is a must. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Bluegrass State with 18 mouthwatering Derby-inspired recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
The Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is a classic dish that originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. This open-faced sandwich is a satisfying and flavorful combination of turkey, bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 pound of sliced turkey breast
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup of Mornay sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
Mornay Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of turkey, two slices of bacon, and a tomato slice on top of each bread slice.
4. Spoon Mornay sauce over the filling and sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese.
5. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Derby Pie with Walnuts and Chocolate
Experience the ultimate combination of flavors in this classic American dessert, featuring a gooey chocolate filling, crunchy walnuts, and a buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt chocolate chips and heavy cream over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until dissolved.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts.
5. Roll out pie crust and fill with the chocolate-walnut mixture.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bourbon Glazed Ham
Impress your guests with a sweet and savory bourbon glazed ham that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, bourbon whiskey, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Mint Julep Cupcakes
Experience the refreshing flavor of a Mint Julep in cupcake form, perfect for your next gathering or special occasion. These moist and flavorful treats combine the essence of mint with the richness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup melted chocolate chips (semi-sweet or white)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and peppermint extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips and fold into the batter.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Southern Pimento Cheese Spread
A classic Southern favorite, this creamy pimento cheese spread is a staple at picnics, parties, and family gatherings. Made with the perfect blend of cheddar, cream cheese, and diced pimentos, it’s an easy and delicious way to add some Southern charm to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup diced pimentos (green or red)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cheddar and cream cheese.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the diced pimentos, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Mix until well incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! This spread is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Classic Benedictine Dip
A timeless party favorite, this creamy dip is a staple for any gathering. With its tangy flavor and smooth texture, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley; mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Derby Day Burgoo Stew
Gather friends and family around the table for a hearty, comforting bowl of Derby Day Burgoo Stew, inspired by the classic Kentucky dish. This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a day filled with horse racing, mint juleps, and Southern charm.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup burgoo seasoning (or a combination of paprika, cumin, chili powder, and oregano)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the potatoes, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, burgoo seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the tomato paste and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the meat is tender.
7. If desired, add bourbon whiskey during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken
Elevate your backyard barbecue with this sweet and tangy bourbon peach BBQ chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, peach preserves, and honey until well combined.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Sprinkle cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.
5. Grill or bake for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush with BBQ sauce.
7. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kentucky Butter Cake
This classic Kentucky Butter Cake recipe yields a moist and buttery cake with a golden crust, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With its rich flavor profile, this cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Derby Cheese Ball with Pecans
This creamy cheese ball recipe gets a crunchy twist with the addition of toasted pecans, making it perfect for Derby parties or casual gatherings. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delicious snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped pecans.
4. Roll the mixture into a ball shape, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern Fried Green Tomatoes
A classic Southern dish that’s crispy on the outside and tangy on the inside. This recipe is a staple of many Southern households, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice first in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry tomato slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars
Rich, gooey pecans and bourbon-infused filling combine in a sweet and savory bar perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, bourbon whiskey (if using), vanilla extract, and pecans; stir until combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole
This casserole is a twist on the classic Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich, with layers of turkey, cheese, and creamy sauce baked to perfection. Perfect for a comforting dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of white bread, toasted and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix well.
3. Add the chopped green onions (if using) and mix again.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes in an even layer.
5. Pour the turkey mixture over the bread.
6. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining bread cubes, then the turkey mixture, and finishing with the cheese.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Derby Day Deviled Eggs
Get ready to celebrate the Kentucky Derby with these classic deviled eggs, perfect for a Derby party or any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
3. Add mayonnaise, mustard, and horseradish; mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with paprika or chopped chives for garnish.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as these are a cold dish!
Bourbon Bacon Jam
Elevate your grilled meats, cheeses, and crackers with this rich and indulgent Bourbon Bacon Jam. Made with crispy bacon, sweet caramelized onions, and a hint of bourbon, this spread is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Jameson)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onions and cook until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir until coated with the jam mixture.
6. Transfer jam to a serving dish or jar. Let cool completely before refrigerating for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Southern Cornbread Salad
A twist on traditional salads, this Southern-style cornbread salad combines crunchy cornbread croutons with fresh greens, tangy dressing, and savory ingredients. Perfect for a warm weather gathering or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed leftover cornbread (or store-bought)
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cube cornbread and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to coat.
5. Add toasted cornbread croutons and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cornbread toasting)
Kentucky Bourbon Balls
A classic Southern treat, these bourbon balls are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 2 tablespoons Kentucky bourbon whiskey
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture; stir until well combined.
3. If using pecans, fold them into the mixture.
4. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Roll each ball between your hands to shape and smooth out.
7. Place the bourbon balls on a serving plate and drizzle with Kentucky bourbon whiskey.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Servings: Approximately 20-25 bourbon balls
Derby Style Pulled Pork Sliders
Derby Style Pulled Pork Sliders: A Twist on a Classic!
These tender sliders are perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends and family. The tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors of the pulled pork, combined with the crunch of the coleslaw, will make them an instant hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices and fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw, pickle slices, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Summary
Get ready to score big with these 18 flavorful Derby recipes that are perfect for parties! From classic Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches and Derby Pie with Walnuts and Chocolate, to Mint Julep Cupcakes and Bourbon Glazed Ham, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Southern Pimento Cheese Spread, Classic Benedictine Dip, or Derby Day Burgoo Stew. For a sweet treat, indulge in Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken, Kentucky Butter Cake, or Derby Cheese Ball with Pecans. And don’t forget to add some Southern Fried Green Tomatoes and Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars to the mix! These recipes are sure to be a hit at your next Derby party.
