Fill your plate (and your glass) with these southern classics before your favorite horse runs for the roses. Win or lose, here's a Kentucky Derby food spread you can bet on!
34 Kentucky Derby Foods for Your Derby Day Buffet
Updated on Mar. 06, 2025
1/34
Kentucky Pecan Pie
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This rich, dense Kentucky pecan pie recipe is perfect for your next party. It features a delicious dark chocolate filling topped with plenty of toasted pecans. —Emily Baldwin, Fort Collins, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 552 calories, 29g fat (10g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 253mg sodium, 75g carbohydrate (38g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.
This pecan pie recipe is inspired by Derby pie, which was invented in Kentucky back in the ’50s. Rather than walnuts, though, this version calls for chopped pecans to be paired with semisweet chocolate for a pie that is nutty, buttery, chocolaty and downright delicious.
2/34
Pimiento Cheese
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
10 min
Servings
3 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
I love pimiento cheese, but I've never made my own—this was a fun challenge! Serve it cold on crackers or sandwiches. Drizzle it with honey for added flavor; I used hot honey, which was great! —Darla Andrews, Boerne, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 81 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 147mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
Pimiento cheese is a mix of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mayo, seasonings and pimiento peppers. Those who are spice-shy don’t have to worry; pimientos are a sweet type of pepper and aren’t spicy in the least.
3/34
Kentucky Hot Brown
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
35 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The Kentucky hot brown is the best sandwich you will ever eat with a knife and fork. This epic open-faced delight has thick slices of bread, turkey, bacon, tomato and cheese, all bathed in a rich, irresistible sauce. —Kristina Vanni, North Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 1073 calories, 52g fat (28g saturated fat), 289mg cholesterol, 1822mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 93g protein.
This dish, which is somewhere between a sandwich and a casserole, was created by Louisville chef Fred K. Schmidt in an effort to fuel hungry patrons after a night of dancing. The combination of bread, turkey, bacon, tomatoes and a cheesy Mornay sauce was an instant hit! If you’re hosting a larger party, turn to these Kentucky hot brown sliders instead.
4/34
Mint Julep
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
10 servings (2-1/2 cups syrup)
From the Recipe Creator:
It wouldn't be Kentucky Derby Day without this mint julep recipe! But, really, this Kentucky Derby mint julep recipe is good anytime. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/3 cup: 197 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 6mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
Transport your taste buds to Churchill Downs with this incredibly easy cocktail. Prep the mint syrup a day or two ahead of time, and then your guests can mix their own drinks during the party. Just be sure to put out bourbon (as opposed to whiskey) for Kentucky flare.
5/34
Benedictine Spread
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
15 min
Servings
1-3/4 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
This version of a traditional Benedictine spread comes from our Test Kitchen. Serve it as an appetizer dip or as a sandwich filling. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 65 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 98mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Benedictine spread is perfect to nibble on while waiting for the race to start. You can mix the dip up to three days in advance to have one less thing to do on Derby day. This smooth and creamy dip is paired with snack rye bread and veggies. It’d make the perfect addition to a crudités platter.
6/34
Bourbon Balls
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Remember the days at Grandma and Grandpa's house when you made these wonderfully traditional treats? We love these Kentucky Derby bourbon balls—the blended taste of bourbon and pecans is irresistible! —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 bourbon ball: 128 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 20mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
Bourbon and pecans are a match made in Kentucky Derby heaven. For added depth, feel free to lightly toast the nuts before combining them with the bourbon.
7/34
Pimiento Mac and Cheese
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
45 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Pimento mac and cheese is the happy result of two of the South’s most beloved comfort dishes combining into one. Classic pimento cheese is a rich, creamy and tangy blend of shredded cheese, mayonnaise and pimiento peppers, served as a dip with crackers and veggies or made into sandwiches on white bread. It also is a fantastic enhancement to homemade mac and cheese. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 258 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 363mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
Who says pimiento cheese can only be served as a dip or in a sandwich? I made this pimiento mac and cheese for a Kentucky Derby watch party last year and left with a completely empty 13×9-inch dish.
8/34
Shrimp Salad Appetizers
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
15 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
This refreshing hors d'oeuvre has gained a big following since a friend shared her family recipe with me. My son says it best: The celery and shrimp are so good together. —Solie Kimble, Kanata, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 31 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 115mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
Here’s an appetizer that looks elegant but is deceptively easy. Our recipe calls for endives, but if you can’t find them at your grocery store, you can swap in a head of small Bibb lettuce.
9/34
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake
Skill Level
Advanced
Total Time
1 hour 45 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This Kentucky bourbon pecan cheesecake will wow your guests and your taste buds. Serve it in spring during the Kentucky Derby or at any other special occasion throughout the year. —Rashanda Cobbins, Aurora, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 525 calories, 35g fat (18g saturated fat), 153mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (38g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
Believe it or not, you can make this cheesecake up to a month before the big race. Freezing a cheesecake is the key to this longevity: Simply bake the cheesecake as directed, wrap it well and pop it in the freezer. The night before your party, allow the cheesecake to defrost in the fridge and then top it with whipped cream, pecans and caramel sauce.
10/34
Smoked Pimiento Cheese Crostini
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
4 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Pimiento cheese has long been a favorite in our family, so these bite-sized appetizers are a treat! I add Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce to give them a little kick. Caramelized onions create another layer of flavor. You can make the cheese and onions three to five days in advance; they store well. If you need to save time, you can use premade jalapeno pimiento cheese. —Caitlyn Bunch, Trenton, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 87 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 174mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
These little bites are ideal for passing around at a watch party. They can be eaten in two bites, though their layers of flavor will have your guests coming back for more and more.
11/34
Turkey Cordon Bleu with Alfredo Sauce
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
For our annual Kentucky Derby party, I wanted to create a twist on a traditional Kentucky hot brown sandwich, and my turkey cordon bleu was born. The turkey is tender and flavorful, full of smoky ham and melted cheese, but the crispy bacon really sets the dish apart. —Sandy Komisarek, Swanton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 turkey roll-up with about 3 tablespoons sauce: 455 calories, 24g fat (10g saturated fat), 147mg cholesterol, 910mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 39g protein.
For those looking for something on the heartier side, this turkey cordon bleu is just the thing. It takes the flavors of a turkey hot brown and transforms them into these breaded roll-ups. You can easily double or triple this recipe for a bigger crowd.
12/34
Bourbon Meatballs
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
about 3-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Kick-start your meatballs with splashes of bourbon and vinegar for punchy sweet-and-sour flavor. These Kentucky Derby bourbon meatballs are perfect to snack on while you watch the race. —Kimla Carsten, Grand Junction, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball: 95 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 192mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
In my humble opinion, meatballs are the ultimate hot appetizer. They’re meaty and bite-sized, and just about everyone loves them! Once you prepare the meatballs in this recipe, you can transfer them to your slow cooker on warm to keep the meatballs hot throughout the party.
13/34
Cucumber Canapes
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I always get requests for the recipe for these canapes whenever I serve them. They're delicate finger sandwiches with a creamy herb spread and festive red and green garnishes. —Nadine Whittaker, South Plymouth, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 120 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 134mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
On the opposite flavor spectrum compared to meatballs, cucumber canapes are what you need when you’re looking for something that’s light and refreshing. Since cucumbers contain a lot of water, these canapes are best when served right after assembling.
14/34
Pimento Cheese Ball
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
10 min
Servings
1 cheese ball (2 cups)
From the Recipe Creator:
This rich and creamy spread looks so festive with flecks of green onion and red pimiento dotted with cheddar cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser at any party. —Sundra Hauck, Bogalusa, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 109 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Since pimiento peppers aren’t spicy, you can add some kick to this cheese ball by adding your favorite hot sauce to the mixture or some crushed red pepper flakes to the parsley topping.
15/34
Mini Hot Browns
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
1-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's my take on the famous hot brown sandwich. Guests quickly saddle up for juicy turkey slices and crispy bacon piled on toasted rye bread and then topped with a rich cheese sauce. —Annette Grahl, Midway, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 98 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 246mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
If you’re looking for a mini version of a Kentucky hot brown, this recipe with snack rye bread is it! When you’re at the grocery store grabbing ingredients for the recipe, know that snack rye bread can also be called cocktail rye bread and is usually found in either the bakery section or the cracker aisle of the grocery store. If your store is out of stock, you can just cut slices of regular rye bread into smaller pieces.
16/34
Lemon Chess Pie
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This bright and creamy lemon chess pie cuts beautifully and has a smooth texture. It’s one of my favorites. —Hannah LaRue Rider, East Point, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 363 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 219mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
To keep it easy, our recipe for lemon chess pie calls for a store-bought pie crust—and for the best results, I recommend using Pillsbury, which is what our Test Kitchen picked for the best premade pie crust. If you want to go the extra mile, though, you can always make homemade pie crust.
17/34
Kentucky Mule
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Bourbon lovers will adore this Kentucky mule recipe. It is the same as a Moscow mule but replaces the vodka with bourbon. Serve the cocktail in a copper mug to keep it cold. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 169 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 12mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
What’s better than a Moscow mule? A Kentucky mule, of course! Replace the vodka with bourbon for this Kentucky take on the classic cocktail.
18/34
Macaroni Salad
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
35 min
Servings
11 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Classic macaroni salad is a potluck staple. It can be made ahead, transports easily, and is the perfect side for grilled meats and sandwiches. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 305 calories, 17g fat (3g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 451mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
Macaroni salad is a stellar 15-minute potluck recipe featuring tender pasta, fresh veggies, egg and a creamy yet tangy dressing.
19/34
Bourbon Ice Cream
Skill Level
Advanced
Total Time
40 min
Servings
5 cups
From the Recipe Creator:
The brown sugar in this decadent bourbon ice cream gives a hint of caramel flavor, which complements the bourbon. When the custard is still liquid, before it goes into the ice cream maker, add more or less bourbon to suite your taste. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 295 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 169mg cholesterol, 75mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
This bourbon ice cream takes some planning, but it is so worth the wait. I like to top scoops of this ice cream with candied pecans and chocolate magic shell.
20/34
Fried Chicken
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
30 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
If you've wanted to learn how to make crispy fried chicken, this is the recipe for you. Always a picnic favorite, this deep-fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken: 543 calories, 33g fat (7g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 798mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
Thanks to this fried chicken recipe, you don’t have to hit up the drive thru for some fried chicken. The key to perfectly breaded chicken is patting the chicken dry before you start to dredge. The dry skin will allow the breading to adhere better and not fall off once you start frying.
21/34
Easy Peasy Biscuits
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
35 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
I love that I can make these biscuits and have enough left over to freeze for another meal. They're a healthier version of a classic American staple. —Amanda West, Shelbyville, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 biscuit: 167 calories, 10g fat (8g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 328mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
These biscuits are so versatile for a Kentucky Derby party. You can use them as buns for slider recipes, or they can be slathered in dip or topped with butter and some fresh berry jam.
22/34
Watermelon Cups
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
25 min
Servings
16 pieces
From the Recipe Creator:
This lovely appetizer is almost too pretty to eat! Sweet watermelon cubes hold a refreshing topping that showcases cucumber, red onion and fresh herbs. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 7 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
The only thing more refreshing than watermelon is watermelon topped with a cucumber, red onion and herb salad. Even if you’re not a red onion fan, don’t skip it in this recipe! It adds a welcomed bite without being overpowering.
23/34
Burgoo
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
3 hours
Servings
24 servings (7-1/2 quarts)
From the Recipe Creator:
A Kentucky Derby favorite, this hearty, comforting meat and vegetable stew will feed a large crowd. It takes a bit of effort but is worth it. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 265 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 404mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 22g protein.
Burgoo is a staple at Kentucky gatherings like family parties, community events and, yes, the Kentucky Derby! The meat- and vegetable-heavy stew recipe varies from family to family, with our recipe containing pork, beef, chicken, lima beans, potatoes, cabbage and many more veggies.
24/34
Southern Pralines
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
35 min
Servings
about 3-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is truly southern, and it's been a family favorite for years. I've packed many a Christmas tin with this candy. —Bernice Eberhart, Fort Payne, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 121 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 31mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Pralines are a quintessential southern dessert, so it’s only fitting to have them at your Kentucky Derby watch party. Not letting your caramel reach the perfect temperature (which is 230°F) or letting it get too hot is the most common candy-making mistake, so keep your eye on your candy thermometer.
25/34
Bourbon Slush
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
10 min
Servings
24 servings (6 qt.)
From the Recipe Creator:
At our holiday parties, bourbon slush is definitely a favorite. Have fun experimenting with different teas when you make it. We like black tea, green tea and orange spice. —Darcene Sigler, Louisville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 196 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 15mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
Even early May can be hot for some parts of the U.S., so if it’s a scorcher in your neck of the woods, this bourbon slush is my favorite way to cool down. The slushy cocktail uses grocery basics for a sweet, fruity drink that can easily be made nonalcoholic.
26/34
Horseradish Deviled Eggs
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
15 min
Servings
1 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
People say “Wow!” when they taste these flavorful, tangy horseradish deviled eggs. The bold combination of ground mustard, dill and horseradish is so appealing. The plate is always emptied when I serve these eggs. —Ruth Roth, Linville, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
2 stuffed egg halves: 146 calories, 13g fat (3g saturated fat), 215mg cholesterol, 169mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
There are many ways to make deviled eggs, and this version uses horseradish for a zesty kick. For even more flavor, top these eggs with cooked bacon, sliced green onions or a dollop of pimiento cheese.
27/34
Kentucky Butter Cake
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I found this Kentucky butter cake recipe in an old cookbook I bought at a garage sale and couldn’t wait to try it. I knew it had been someone’s favorite because of the well-worn page. —Joan Gertz, Palmetto, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 410 calories, 19g fat (11g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 344mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (38g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
If the tender crumb of this butter cake weren’t enough, the buttery glaze certainly is! Serve slices on their own, or pair the cake with a fruit sauce or butterscotch sauce and a scoop of your favorite homemade ice cream recipe.
28/34
Saucy Barbecue Shrimp
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
40 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This old, rustic Cajun dish is one of our family favorites. Don't remove the shells from the shrimp—the beauty of this dish is peeling the shrimp and dipping them in the sauce. We've doubled and even tripled this barbecue shrimp to feed crowds and it's always perfect! —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 339 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 168mg cholesterol, 883mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 1g fiber), 19g protein.
You can use any brand of store-bought barbecue sauce for this shrimp appetizer, but I think a sauce with some heat is best. You can also make a batch of homemade barbecue sauce to really customize the flavor profile.
29/34
Brownie Bourbon Bites
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
35 min
Servings
about 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Chocolate and chopped pecans flavor these simple, spirited treats. Make a double batch so you can give some as gifts and savor the rest! —Paula Kirchenbauer, Newton, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 110 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 35mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
This southern-inspired dessert has a little bit of everything: pecans and bourbon and brownies—oh, my! Get ready for these little bites to fly off your dessert table.
30/34
Black-Eyed Susan
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
5 min
Servings
1 serving
From the Recipe Creator:
The Kentucky Derby has the mint julep; the Preakness has the black-eyed Susan. The drink is a sunny mix of vodka, rum, and pineapple and orange juices to toast any special event. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 242 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 3mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
Black-eyed Susans are famed at the Preakness Stakes race, but that doesn’t mean you can’t serve these cocktails at your Kentucky Derby party too. This drink is on the fruiter side, made with rum, vodka, pineapple juice and orange juice.
31/34
Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding Recipe
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This old southern recipe features a comforting custard layered with sliced bananas and vanilla wafers, then it is topped with meringue. I serve this banana pudding year-round. —Jan Campbell, Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 293 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 121mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (38g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
The meringue topping on this banana pudding takes some extra care, but I promise it’s worth it. Start with a bowl and beaters that are completely clean and dry, and follow our best meringue tips for fluffy, airy peaks.
32/34
Shrimp Cocktail
Skill Level
Medium
Total Time
30 min
Servings
about 6 dozen (1-1/4 cups sauce)
From the Recipe Creator:
During the '60s, shrimp cocktail was one of the most popular party foods around. And it is still a crowd favorite. It's the one appetizer that I serve for every special occasion as well as for munchie meals. —Peggy Allen, Pasadena, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 ounce cooked shrimp with about 2 teaspoons sauce: 59 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 555mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
I don’t know about you, but any party I host that involves food (which is just about every party) has to have shrimp cocktail. While frozen shrimp can be used, I really recommend starting with raw shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
33/34
Spoon Bread
Skill Level
Easy
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a traditional Kentucky recipe. It’s a popular side dish served all year long. If you’ve never tried spoon bread before, I think you’ll find it’s tasty and comforting. —Caroline Brown, Lexington, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 192 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 433mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
This recipe is kind of a bread and kind of a souffle. Spoon bread has a moist center compared to cornbread and is delicious served alongside some smoked kielbasa or a bowl of burgoo.
34/34
Brandy Alexander Cheesecake
Skill Level
Advanced
Total Time
1 hour 55 min
Servings
16 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband and I really enjoy a good brandy Alexander, so I thought it would be fun to create a cheesecake with the same flavors. It's not necessary to use both the dark and white creme de cacao in this recipe; 6 tablespoons of either one may be substituted. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 528 calories, 33g fat (19g saturated fat), 125mg cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (38g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
A brandy Alexander is a dessert cocktail that features creme de cacao, whipping cream and brandy. This creative recipe takes those flavors and transforms them into a rich, layered cheesecake.
Kentucky Derby Food FAQ
What should I serve at a Kentucky Derby party?
Any of the southern-inspired recipes in this list will be well received at your Kentucky Derby party! I recommend serving a mix of Kentucky Derby appetizers, sweet treats and a few heartier foods to keep your guests satiated. I tend to make pimiento cheese, a pot of burgoo and bourbon balls for my Kentucky Derby spread.
What are the traditions of the Kentucky Derby?
Mint juleps, Benedictine spread and Kentucky hot browns are all food traditions associated with the Kentucky Derby. On the non-food side, it’s a tradition to dress up for this blink-and-you’ll-miss-it race. Elaborate hats, dresses, sports jackets or blazers in pastel hues are all commonplace at Churchill Downs. If you’re feeling lucky, you can also place bets between your guests on which horse will take home the grand prize.
What drinks should I pair with Kentucky Derby food?
Mint juleps are the traditional Kentucky Derby cocktail, but you can make any batch cocktail or mocktail you’re in the mood for. Since over 90% of the world’s bourbon supply is made in Kentucky, I’d recommend offering at least one bourbon cocktail. You can also offer a black-eyed Susan, spiked lemonade or mimosas for those who aren’t whiskey fans.
