Get ready to taste the flavor of the South with these 18 classic Derby recipes that every Southerner should try. From traditional Kentucky dishes to sweet treats and refreshing cocktails, we’ve got you covered for your next Derby party or family gathering. Whether you’re a native Kentuckian or just a fan of the bluegrass state, these recipes are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Start off with some Southern staples like our famous hot brown sandwiches, made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce on toasted bread. Or try your hand at making our iconic Derby pie, featuring a rich chocolate filling topped with a layer of whipped cream. And don’t forget to add some Benedictine spread to your menu – this tangy and creamy condiment is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite cheeses or crackers.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
A Louisville legend, this open-faced sandwich combines the richness of turkey, cheese, and cream sauce with the crunch of toast and the warmth of the oven. Perfect for a comforting meal or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably buttered)
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cream sauce (see below)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Cream Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Top each bread slice with a layer of turkey, followed by cheese and a spoonful of cream sauce.
4. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Derby Pie
Rich, chocolatey, and nutty, this classic Derby Pie recipe is a staple of Kentucky’s biggest sporting event. With its gooey filling and crumbly crust, it’s the perfect dessert to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine chocolate chips, heavy cream, corn syrup, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped nuts.
4. Pour filling into pie crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Benedictine Spread
A classic French condiment, Benedictine Spread is a sweet and savory accompaniment to cheese, crackers, and bread. This simple recipe yields a deliciously rich spread perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 g) honey
– 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup (30 g) grated onion
– 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, honey, parsley, onion, and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly and reduced by about half.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bourbon Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with a sweet and savory Bourbon Glazed Ham. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, as the bourbon adds depth and complexity to the classic glazed ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 bourbon, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and cloves.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover every surface.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the ham and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on traditional cocktails, this Mint Julep recipe combines the cooling flavors of mint and bourbon to create a drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
– Crushed ice
– Whipped cream and crushed ice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a silver cup or julep 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 to the cup.
3. Fill the cup with crushed ice.
4. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined and chilled.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed ice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Burgoo Stew
A hearty, slow-cooked stew originating from the American Midwest, Burgoo is a comforting blend of beef, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add browned beef back into the pot, along with diced tomatoes, beef broth, and flour. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Simmer for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cheese Grits Casserole
A creamy, cheesy twist on classic grits, this casserole is perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch. With its golden crust and velvety interior, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions using milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in grated cheeses until melted and smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, beat eggs.
5. Combine cooked grits mixture with beaten eggs.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with additional shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried Green Tomatoes
A Southern classic, fried green tomatoes are a delicious twist on traditional tomato dishes. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful results with minimal effort.
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 into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated tomato slices on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total.
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A creamy twist on a classic pepper recipe, these stuffed peppers are filled with the comforting flavors of pimento cheese and baked to perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup pimento cheese spread
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together pimento cheese spread, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Stuff each pepper with the pimento cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Salad
A twist on traditional green salads, this Cornbread Salad combines the crumbly goodness of cornbread with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Southern Buttermilk Biscuits
These flaky, tender biscuits are a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for accompanying your favorite comfort foods or serving alongside a warm breakfast. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying these buttery treats in no time.
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. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pecan-Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this crunchy and flavorful pecan-crusted delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together chopped pecans, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Baked Beans
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these rich and flavorful Bourbon Baked Beans. This recipe combines classic baked beans with the smooth, velvety notes of bourbon to create a truly unforgettable side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or bean pot, combine navy beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in bourbon whiskey.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours, or until beans are tender.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Kentucky Beer Cheese
A creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers. This recipe combines the rich flavors of cheddar and beer with a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup beer (any style, but lager or pilsner work well)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and beer. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and paprika. Whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the dip reaches desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Honey Fried Chicken
Elevate your fried chicken game with a hint of spicy kick from hot honey! This recipe combines crispy, juicy chicken with the sweetness of honey and a touch of heat.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot honey (or more to taste)
– 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 chicken piece into the buttermilk, 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 chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together hot honey and 1 tablespoon water.
7. Brush the hot honey mixture on the fried chicken pieces during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Sweet Tea Brined Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a tangy twist by brining them in a sweet tea-infused liquid, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. Perfect for a summer BBQ or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup sweet tea (brewed strong)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup black pepper
– 1/4 cup garlic powder
– 1/4 cup onion powder
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sweet tea, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until dissolved.
2. Add pork chops to the marinade, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from brine, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Blackberry Cobbler
A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this blackberry cobbler is a simple yet impressive treat that’s sure to please. Fresh blackberries are topped with a crumbly biscuit mixture and baked until golden brown.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together blackberries, sugar, flour, and baking powder.
3. Pour in melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill the crust with the blackberry mixture and spread evenly.
6. Dot the top of the cobbler with remaining butter.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bourbon Bread Pudding
Rich and indulgent, this Bourbon Bread Pudding recipe combines the comforting warmth of bread pudding with the sophisticated charm of bourbon. Perfect for serving as a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and bourbon whiskey.
4. Pour wet ingredients over bread mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the best of Derby with these classic recipes from the South. From comforting classics like Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich and Cheese Grits Casserole to sweet treats like Bourbon Bread Pudding and Blackberry Cobbler, there’s something for every palate. Try making a Mint Julep or enjoying some Fried Green Tomatoes alongside your favorite main course. And don’t forget to save room for dessert with Derby Pie and Bourbon Glazed Ham. With these 18 classic recipes, you’ll be the king of the Kentucky Derby party!
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