The Kentucky Derby is a fun day to celebrate, whether you follow horse racing or just like wearing big hats and drinking bourbon for brunch. Here are a few fun recipes, from brunch to appetizers and cocktails, to keep you entertained on derby day.
Mint Julep
I bet you didn’t see this one coming! I mean, what even is the Kentucky Derby without Mint Juleps? This mixture of bourbon, simple syrup and fresh mint leaves is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. Here’s a quick and easy recipe right from the Kentucky Derby website.
Hot Brown Sandwich
A hot brown sandwich is a southern classic, which is perfect for a derby day brunch. This open-faced sandwich is topped with roasted turkey, cheese sauce and bacon and then baked to perfection! Check out this recipe from Taste of Home.
Smoky Sour
If Mint Juleps aren’t your style, try this Smoky Sour created by New York City bartender Jim Kearns. This recipe combines Whiskey (or bourbon), lemon juice, cinnamon bark syrup, lapsang souchong tea syrup and egg whites. Check out the recipe here!
Pimento Cheese Dip
Pimento cheese dip is a delicious appetizer to serve with crackers, or to spread on bread for a unique grilled cheese sandwich. All you have to do is mix the ingredients together and serve! This recipe from the Kentucky Derby website was created by the Churchill Downs Executive Chef – so bring the taste of the Kentucky Derby to your living room.
Blackberry Mint Julep Margarita
If you prefer tequila over bourbon, this is the recipe for you. Since the Kentucky Derby and Cinco De Mayo fall on the same week, this is the perfect recipe to enjoy for both occasions. Get some fresh blackberries and whip up some blackberry mint julep margaritas!
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are another southern classic and just a general favorite when it comes to appetizers. There are tons of ways to make delicious deviled eggs, but here is a recipe for some classic southern deviled eggs from Southern Bite. Make sure you don’t forget the paprika!
Southern Mac and Cheese
Comfort foods and weekends just go together hand-in-hand. This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is creamy, rich and baked to golden perfection. Dump the ingredients together and bake until the house smells warm and delicious.
Bloody Derby
Bloody Marys: you either love them, or you hate them. But in typical Kentucky Derby fashion, there’s a bourbon version. If you’re more of a bourbon fan than a vodka connoisseur, check out this bloody derby recipe.
Bourbon Ice Cream
Time for a post-race dessert. Let’s put the leftover bourbon from the Mint Juleps to good use. This recipe from Taste of Home is a great dessert option!