The Kentucky Derby, also known as the “Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” is a beloved tradition that brings people together to celebrate horse racing, fashion, and delicious food. When it comes to Derby party planning, the menu is just as important as the hat you wear or the outfit you choose. That’s why we’ve gathered 18 classic Kentucky Derby recipes that every Southerner loves. From iconic sandwiches to decadent pies, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary trip down south and explore some of the most beloved recipes from the Bluegrass State. Whether you’re hosting your own Derby party or just looking for new recipe ideas, you won’t want to miss these tried-and-true favorites that are sure to become new traditions in your household.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
The Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich is a legendary open-faced sandwich originating from the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. This recipe brings together the flavors of turkey, bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce on toasted bread for a delightful twist.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (toasted)
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
– 6 slices of crispy bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup Mornay sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. Top each slice of toast with a layer of turkey, followed by a few pieces of bacon, diced tomato, and a spoonful of Mornay sauce.
4. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
5. Place under broiler for 30 seconds to melt cheese.
6. Serve immediately.
Mornay Sauce Recipe:
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and heat until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Derby Pie
A classic Kentucky dessert, Derby Pie is a rich and gooey chocolate pie filled with a layer of pecans for added crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour batter into an ungreased 9-inch pie dish.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are set and center is still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chocolate chips.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before topping with chopped pecans.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Benedictine Spread
A sweet and tangy spread perfect for topping crackers, bread, or using as a dip for fruit. This classic recipe is a staple in many households, and its versatility makes it a great addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup candied citron, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Stir in the chopped candied orange peel and citron.
5. Pour into a shallow dish or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including prep)
Bourbon Glazed Ham
Impress your guests with this mouthwatering Bourbon Glazed Ham, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This sweet and savory glaze elevates the classic ham to new heights, combining the richness of bourbon with the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-7 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer 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 1 hour.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours.
Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on a timeless classic, this Mint Julep recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a cool treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
– 1 tablespoon Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons crushed ice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a silver or stainless steel cup, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey and simple syrup; stir until well combined.
3. Fill the cup with crushed ice and stir until frost forms on the outside of the glass (about 20-30 seconds).
4. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 2 minutes
– Total time: 5 minutes
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to your pepper game with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the spiciness of pimento cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix pimento cheese with olive oil until smooth.
4. Stuff each pepper with the pimento cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fried Chicken with Bourbon Gravy
Elevate your fried chicken game with the addition of bourbon and a savory gravy that will leave you wanting more. This recipe combines crispy, juicy chicken with a tangy and indulgent sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gravy ingredients: 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 cup chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each piece of chicken in the buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture.
4. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
7. Stir in bourbon whiskey and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve fried chicken hot with warm bourbon gravy.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits
Get ready for a taste of classic Southern comfort with these flaky, buttery biscuits made with buttermilk. Perfect for breakfast or as a side dish, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into a crumbly mixture.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bourbon Pecan Pie
This Bourbon Pecan Pie is a twist on the classic pecan pie recipe, infused with the smooth flavor of bourbon. The result is a rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or as a treat to indulge in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Stir in eggs one at a time, followed by bourbon whiskey and vanilla extract.
4. Add pecan halves and stir until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Roll out pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the pecan mixture and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kentucky Burgoo Stew
Kentucky Burgoo Stew Recipe
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly day or a family gathering, Kentucky Burgoo is a beloved dish that originated in the Bluegrass State. This recipe combines tender beef, vegetables, and beans in a rich broth, all slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked beef back to the pot along with diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Serves: 4-6 people
Cheese Grits Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the richness of cheese with the warm, creamy goodness of grits. Perfect for a cozy brunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using the water and melted butter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked grits with egg mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions or paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hot Brown Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ground beef, brown sugar, and cream of mushroom soup with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cream of mushroom soup, milk, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with melted butter and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Balls
A classic Southern treat that combines the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of chocolate, these Bourbon Balls are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, powdered sugar, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in softened butter until melted. Let cool slightly.
3. Stir in bourbon whiskey and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Dip each bourbon ball into melted chocolate and place back onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Corn Pudding
This creamy corn pudding recipe is a Southern staple that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, vegetables, or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, flour, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, corn kernels, and beaten egg; mix well.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of pudding.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Fried Green Tomatoes
Experience the classic taste of the South with this crispy and flavorful fried green tomatoes recipe. A perfect side dish or snack that’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 large 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 into the buttermilk, coating both sides, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pecan-Crusted Catfish
This recipe combines the flaky goodness of catfish with the rich flavor of pecans, creating a crispy and savory dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pecans
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pecans, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the catfish and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Tea Brined Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory brine recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup brewed sweet tea (cooled)
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooled sweet tea, kosher salt, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Stir until the salt is dissolved.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the brine mixture, making sure they are fully submerged.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the brine, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Peach Cobbler
Warm up with a slice of this indulgent Bourbon Peach Cobbler, featuring tender peaches, crunchy cobbler topping, and a hint of smooth bourbon. This sweet treat is perfect for a cozy evening or as a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sliced fresh peaches
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt. Toss until peaches are evenly coated.
3. Pour melted butter over peach mixture and stir until combined.
4. Add bourbon whiskey, if using, and mix well.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place peaches in the crust.
6. Top with cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought).
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to place your bets on delicious with these 18 classic Kentucky Derby recipes that every Southerner loves! From the iconic Mint Julep and Bourbon Glazed Ham, to crowd-pleasing favorites like Fried Chicken with Bourbon Gravy and Southern Buttermilk Biscuits, we’ve got you covered. Savor the flavors of the Bluegrass State with beloved dishes like Pimento Cheese Stuffed Peppers, Kentucky Burgoo Stew, and Cheese Grits Casserole. And don’t forget to save room for sweet treats like Bourbon Pecan Pie, Bourbon Balls, and Sweet Tea Brined Chicken. Whether you’re a Derby fan or just looking for some tasty inspiration, these recipes are sure to be a winner!
