Introduction
The Kentucky Derby, known for its quick two-minute race, is an event that demands an afternoon filled with delightful food and drinks. Start the festivities with a signature cocktail or a refreshing drink, paired with light bites. Don’t miss the iconic Pimiento Cheese in its traditional, vegan, and unique variations. No Derby party is complete without classic dishes and indulgent desserts, whether it’s the renowned Derby Pie or other delectable treats.
Mint Julep
Crafting this beloved Derby Day drink requires mint, simple syrup, bourbon, and crushed ice. Use a chilled julep cup or fizz glass, a muddler, and a swizzle stick for mixing. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and learn about the history of this classic cocktail.
Classic Pimiento Cheese
Pimiento cheese, often called the “pâté of the South,” is a timeless dip enjoyed at Southern events like the Kentucky Derby. The basic ingredients are cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimientos. Justin Chapple adds grated onion for extra depth in his version.
Kentucky Hot Brown Macaroni and Cheese
Originating from the Brown Hotel in Louisville in 1926, the Kentucky Hot Brown is a famous open-faced sandwich with roast turkey, tomato, bacon, and Mornay sauce on Texas toast. This creative twist turns the Hot Brown into a creamy macaroni and cheese, capturing the essence of the original.
Buttermilk Biscuits
Carla Hall’s buttermilk biscuits use grated cold butter for flavor and vegetable shortening for tenderness, creating flaky layers through her classic laminating technique. These biscuits are perfect for any Southern gathering.
Chocolate Pecan Pie with Bourbon
Pastry chef David Leibovitz’s Chocolate Pecan Pie with Bourbon combines sweet, caramel-infused bourbon with the traditional sugary filling, and adds chocolate for a luxurious texture and a hint of bitterness. This pie is a must-try dessert for Derby Day.
Vegan Pimiento Cheese
This vegan version of pimiento cheese features sweet pimientos in a creamy base made from extra-firm tofu. Serve it with fried saltines, pickled green tomatoes, and fresh celery for a delightful vegan option.
Oysters Rockefeller with Pimiento Cheese
Chef John Ondo’s twist on Oysters Rockefeller includes finely chopped collard greens and bacon mixed with pimiento cheese, topped with buttered cracker crumbs. This makes for an exquisite party appetizer.
Macaroni and Cheese with Buttery Crumbs
Chunks of cheddar and Colby cheeses throughout this macaroni and cheese create a burst of flavor and a lusciously gooey texture. This golden, bubbling dish of cheesy pasta will become a household favorite.
The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken
Chef Shaun Doty’s Southern Fried Chicken from Bantam + Biddy in Atlanta features a perfectly crunchy seasoned crust (thanks to cornstarch) and juicy meat. This dish pairs wonderfully with Champagne, Lambrusco, or Pinot Noir.
Kentucky Hot Brown
Chef Bobby Flay reimagines the Louisville classic, the Kentucky Hot Brown, by smothering an open-face turkey sandwich with cheese sauce and bacon. Prepare the sauce in advance, refrigerate overnight, and reheat before serving to streamline the cooking process.
Fresh Corn Grits with Shrimp
Enjoy a Southern favorite from Top Chef Season 5 contestant Jeff McInnis, who owns Miami’s Yardbird restaurant. This dish combines fresh corn grits with shrimp for a delightful culinary experience.
Deviled Eggs with Country Ham
Chef Ford Fry’s deviled eggs feature goat cheese, Dijon mustard, cornichons, and country ham, topped with fresh chives for a touch of freshness. These deviled eggs are a flavorful appetizer.
Blackberry-Mint Julep
Enhance the classic mint julep by adding blackberries for a fruity twist. Shake the blackberries with the other ingredients to give the drink a vibrant hue and delightful flavor.
Pigs in a Blanket
Jen Pelka of The Riddler in San Francisco elevates pigs in a blanket by brushing puff pastry with a mixture of honey, mustard, and fresh black pepper before baking. This results in a delicious and unique twist on a classic appetizer.
Pimiento Cheese Grits
Bobby Flay combines the classic elements of pimiento cheese with warm, creamy grits, substituting smoky Spanish piquillos for the traditional jarred pimientos. This fusion dish offers a unique and flavorful experience.
Vodka-Rose Punch
TV host Padma Lakshmi’s Vodka-Rose Punch features rose syrup, adding a floral note and a delicate pink color to the cocktail. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes, this punch is an effortless yet elegant option for entertaining.
Red Velvet Cake
This towering dessert features deep red cake layers with cream cheese frosting, achieved through unsweetened cocoa powder and red food coloring. It’s a stunning and delicious treat for any occasion.
Bacon-Bourbon Brownies with Pecans
F&W Executive Features Editor Kat Kinsman enhances her decadent brownies by topping them with bacon and pecans, and infusing some bacon fat into the batter for a smoky flavor. These brownies offer a savory and sweet combination that’s sure to please.
Additional Tips and Benefits
Hosting a Kentucky Derby party is a perfect way to enjoy Southern hospitality and delicious food. These recipes ensure your guests will have a memorable and enjoyable experience. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make each dish your own and create a festive atmosphere.