16 Kentucky Derby Party Ideas Recipes They're Simply Irresistible!

Published on: Apr 2, 2024

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most iconic and prestigious horse races in the world, and it's also the perfect excuse to throw a fabulous party. From mint juleps to big hats, there are so many traditions and elements that make a Kentucky Derby party unique and memorable. But if you're looking to take your party to the next level, here are some delicious recipes to add to your menu.

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Kentucky Hot Brown Bake

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The Kentucky Derby is not just a horse race, it's a time-honored tradition filled with fashion, food, and fun. So why not throw a party to celebrate this iconic event? Here are some fantastic Kentucky Derby party ideas and recipes that will make your gathering a winner.

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Winning Derby Party Ideas and Recipes

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No Kentucky Derby party is complete without the traditional mint julep. But why not put a twist on this classic cocktail? Try making a blackberry mint julep by muddling fresh blackberries with the mint leaves. This fruity and refreshing drink will be a sure hit with your guests.

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Kentucky Derby Party Ideas and Recipes

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The Kentucky Derby is known for its extravagant hats and fashion. Encourage your guests to dress up by having a best hat contest. The winner can receive a prize such as a bottle of bourbon or a gift card to a local horse racing track.

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Ultimate Kentucky Derby Party Ideas and Recipes

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For a unique twist on traditional Derby food, try making mini hot brown sandwiches. This Kentucky staple is typically served as an open-faced sandwich, but making them into bite-sized portions will make them perfect for a party. Simply layer toasted bread, turkey, bacon, and a creamy Mornay sauce, and broil until bubbly.

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Top Kentucky Derby Party Ideas and Recipes

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Bring some Southern charm to your party by incorporating bourbon balls into your dessert spread. These chocolatey, boozy treats are a must-try for any Kentucky Derby party. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making party prep a breeze.

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Creative Kentucky Derby Party Ideas and Recipes

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Take your party to the next level by setting up a DIY hat decorating station. Provide plain hats, ribbons, feathers, and other decorations for your guests to create their own unique Derby hats. This will not only add a fun activity to your party, but it will also make for great photo opportunities.

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Easy Kentucky Derby Party Ideas and Recipes

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If you're looking for a simple and delicious appetizer, try making hot browns in a cup. These mini versions of the classic dish are served in a cup and topped with a slice of cherry tomato and a sprinkle of paprika. They're sure to be a crowd pleaser.

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Kentucky Derby Party Decor and Menu Ideas

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Incorporate the iconic red roses of the Kentucky Derby into your party decor by creating a rose centerpiece. Fill a vase with red roses and add in some horse figurines or jockey hats for a festive touch. This will make for a beautiful centerpiece on your party table.

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Delicious Derby Party Recipes

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In addition to the traditional mint julep, try serving a Derby-inspired cocktail such as a bourbon peach sweet tea or a strawberry basil smash. These refreshing and flavorful drinks will be a hit with your guests and add a touch of Southern flair to your party.

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How to Throw the Perfect Kentucky Derby Party

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Set up a betting station at your party to make things a little more exciting. Have your guests place bets on the winning horse and offer a small prize to the winner. This will add some friendly competition and make your party feel like a true Derby experience.

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Party Planning: Kentucky Derby Edition

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No Derby party is complete without the traditional derby pie. This delicious dessert is a combination of chocolate, nuts, and bourbon all baked into a flaky pie crust. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent and indulgent treat.

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Best Kentucky Derby Party Snack Ideas

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Incorporate some horseshoe-shaped snacks into your party menu. Use cookie cutters to make horseshoe-shaped biscuits or sandwiches, or serve pretzels in the shape of horseshoes. These cute and tasty treats will add a touch of whimsy to your party.

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Simple Kentucky Derby Party Recipes

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For a quick and easy appetizer, try making bacon-wrapped bourbon shrimp. Simply wrap a piece of bacon around a shrimp and secure with a toothpick. Brush with a mixture of bourbon and brown sugar and bake until crispy. Your guests will love these flavorful and indulgent bites.

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Derby Party Food Ideas and Recipes

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Add some Southern charm to your party with a cheese grits bar. Set up a station with cooked grits and a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, bacon, and green onions. Your guests can create their own personalized grits bowls, perfect for a delicious and hearty party snack.

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Kentucky Derby Party Food and Drink Ideas

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For a refreshing and light appetizer, try making cucumber cups filled with dill cream cheese. Simply hollow out cucumber slices and fill with a mixture of cream cheese and fresh dill. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for a hot day and will add a pop of color to your party spread.

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Top Kentucky Derby Party Recipes and Ideas

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Incorporate some horse-themed decor into your party to truly capture the spirit of the Kentucky Derby. Hang up pictures of horses or use horse figurines as table decorations. This will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your party atmosphere.

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Must-Try Kentucky Derby Party Recipes

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For a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional hot brown, try making hot brown dip. This creamy and cheesy dip is filled with all the flavors of a hot brown sandwich and is perfect for scooping up with crackers or bread. Your guests will love this indulgent and delicious appetizer.

Mint Julep Cupcakes

One of the most beloved traditions at the Kentucky Derby is sipping on a refreshing mint julep while watching the race. So why not incorporate that classic flavor into a delicious dessert? These mint julep cupcakes are sure to be a hit at your party. Start with a basic vanilla cupcake base, and add in some bourbon and fresh mint for a kick of flavor. And don't forget to top them off with a swirl of mint-infused buttercream frosting for the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup bourbon
½ cup milk
⅓ cup fresh mint, chopped
For frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp bourbon
2 tbsp chopped fresh mint

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a cupcake pan with liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla and bourbon.
Gradually add in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, until fully combined.
Gently fold in the chopped mint.
Fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat the butter until light and fluffy.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla, bourbon, and chopped mint.
Beat until smooth and creamy.
Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Hot Brown Sliders

Another staple at a Kentucky Derby party is the famous Hot Brown sandwich. This open-faced sandwich is typically made with turkey, bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce. But for a crowd-friendly version, try these Hot Brown sliders. They're easy to make and perfect for snacking on while watching the race.

Ingredients:

12 slider buns
1 lb sliced turkey
12 slices cooked bacon
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
Paprika, for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cut the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish.
Layer the turkey and bacon on top of the buns.
In a small saucepan, whisk together the cheese, mayonnaise, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Cook over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Pour the cheese sauce over the turkey and bacon, then top with the remaining slider bun halves.
Sprinkle with paprika and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve hot.

With these delicious recipes, your Kentucky Derby party is sure to be a hit. Don't forget to serve them alongside some classic dishes like burgoo and derby pie. And for an extra touch, add some horse-themed decorations and games to really get into the spirit of the race. So gather your friends, put on your best hat, and enjoy a day filled with great food and excitement.