![Jalapeño Cheese Straws](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.southernliving.com/thmb/UMNyZphHCLipCu2DAQ-knWj0Z1s=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2384401_diyde18945_1-2000-e9d4e1fc204a4d46997b95495d36caaa.jpg)
Hosting a Kentucky Derby party, but aren't sure what to serve? Rest assured, we've got your celebration covered with these Kentucky Derby party recipes. Celebrate the South's most celebrated horse race with a mix of Bluegrass-inspired dishes and some of our all-time favorite party recipes for a spread that won't disappoint. From traditional Derby Day cocktails like mint juleps to crowd-pleasing appetizers and decadent bourbon-inspired desserts, you're set with Triple-Crown-worthy Kentucky Derby party recipes so good that your guests may even think that you took a weekend trip to Louisville to study up on the local traditions. So dust off your favorite silver trays, punch bowls, and julep cups for your Kentucky Derby tablescape, fill them these delish and festive recipes, and then put on your best Derby hat for the most exciting two minutes in sports.
Hot Brown Party Rolls
![Hot Brown Party Rolls](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/t782lPp4rayn1Fq5VefJI4trrTM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2663801_HeyYa_0204-2000-d71c4f15b157462da805e81818dd24a7-e9f2baa39cf5435f8be02567f6f76c95.jpg)
Victor Protasio; Food Stying: Rishon Hanners; Prop Styling: Audrey Davis
These delicious party rolls are packed with gooey Gruyère cheese, turkey, and bacon ,then topped with dijon mustard and a brown-sugar-garlic-butter spread. Best of all, they're just as easy to make as they are to pull apart and enjoy.
Mint Julep
![Classic Mint Julep](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/MG0eEKbAhaHZLV-_Ef1BXN-YIU8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Classic-Mint-Julep-2000-cc64cec51b3f4af18703f806c31c1323.jpg)
On race day, Churchill Downs serves up 120,000 of these refreshing concoctions of bourbon, fresh mint, and crushed ice. While sterling silver julep cups are classic, highball glassware is a great alternative to show off this pretty cocktail.
Kentucky Bourbon Pie
![Kentucky Bourbon Pie](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/lA7IgvRf_lCfc4DREatRxqi-teM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/derby_pie_0-2bad65e19291471997a9c75042bc5991.jpg)
This beloved recipe of chocolate, bourbon, and pecans is a rendition of George Kern's Derby Pie that dates back to 1964. Though not originally intended to be served on Derby Day, it quickly became a popular celebratory dessert on race day due to its name.
Inside-Out Hot Brown Bites
![Inside-Out Hot Brown Bites](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/TJbdcRERpmoTMcz13rA2IGn7Ncg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/new-years-eve-apps-2429701_amazi34647-7f98152800ac480c8342acd2876d19c6.jpg)
We love Kentucky hot browns in any form, especially this pretty, bite-sized version. The Parmesan crust cups are filled with turkey, bacon, and more cheese, and then topped with tomatoes and parsley for the perfect bite.
Sweet Pea-Avocado Soup
![Sweet Pea-Avocado Soup](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/ILqxiaxT-n4CRd8X5VKL9N2F8ao=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2620401_chilled04142020august0065_0-2000-6154963285a9406dbe950e7ac44fe834.jpg)
We love this bright and zesty soup because it adds a pop of spring color to the buffet. Bonus: You can make it ahead of time and chill until ready to serve.
Black-Eyed Susan Slushies
![Black-Eyed Susan Slushies](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/e0NZc-EhcanadXNHkU4zgdDEm-I=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2663801_HeyYa_0184-2000-fc5b3ab5d6d84bf0a9c83e5cf421fb91-50024f0bfb264b6cb9a391025ac48a0a.jpg)
Victor Protasio; Food Stying: Rishon Hanners; Prop Styling: Audrey Davis
This colorful, fruity cocktail has been the official drink the Preakness Stakes race for decades. Most versions of this classic cocktail call for pineapple and orange juice, orange liqueur, vodka and rum like this non-frozen version, but our slushie has a few twists.
Strawberry Caprese Salad
![Strawberry Caprese Salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/VHGoAiKRdhJ6dIcHvYu9T6jMgPw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2051603_first_027-73d43e772c2a4d0b9d9e0ae1c743fcf8.jpg)
Celebrate spring with this fresh caprese salad made with basil, strawberries, and mini mozzarella balls. Serve it as an appetizer with crostinis or over a bed of arugula for your Derby festivities.
Bourbon-Chocolate Cake with Browned Buttercream Frosting
![Bourbon-Chocolate Cake with Browned Buttercream](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/sAQNmvrrKGNboQVIv3BLLeANMh0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2644701_Chocolate_cake_223-2000-a08c5a306ad644f3b5a55bdfcc6e4a01.jpg)
Elegant, showstopping desserts don't come much easier than this. Each slice of this decadent cake is a bourbon lover's dream.
Pork Tenderloin Sliders
![Pork Tenderloin Sliders](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/zXzgRuZKhmMMVzjEmOs2IpWe6Gg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2384401_diyde19125-1-9e5e049804b94072be21a3490812de70.jpg)
One easy way to serve these cuties is to slice the tenderloins on a large cutting board, set out fresh rolls and homemade condiments, and then let guests build their own sandwiches.
Cheddar Cheese Straws
![Cheese Straws](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/bBQZHWWWw1lWBQ-Mapb2Fyvh15Y=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/southern-living-27087_CHEESE_STRAWS_169_preview-f87ab175b97342b68fea4366a78d6161.jpg)
Antonis Achilleos; Food Styling: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Styling: Missie Neville Crawford
No Southern party would be complete without cheese straws. These have the perfect amount of peppery kick, making them our go-to snack for any occasion.
Pecan Bourbon Balls
![Bourbon Balls](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/xUmS8GhH_MWTDCkbcLrIV3rYIx4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2248501_3fest_0023_0_0-2000-0b6f88f273bf4c959e8a7dfe4361e531.jpg)
Who spiked the cookies? You'd be hard-pressed to find a festive occasion in the South without these traditional bourbon-flavored pecan cookies on the dessert bar.
Ham Biscuits
![Buttermilk Biscuits with Ham](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/GDZegtwJPtXEpJT7cV4Lwcwsq7g=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2536101_easte_0528_0_0_0_2_0-2000-3f320dd09efe4553b1c670c512f89566.jpg)
For a Derby Day classic, these tea biscuits are great on their own, but they're even better as mini sandwiches filled with thin slices of country ham and a spread. Have a variety of condiments for guests to dress biscuits, like blackberry-honey mustard sauce, fancy-flavored butter, or creole mayonnaise.
Kentucky Hot Browns
![Kentucky Hot Browns](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/BVt7vxiVRZKUyfOPzEsZ9MykESc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/st_10843_fomwyw101221592_0-2000-c8081ca317d841e38b86372334da4af6.jpg)
In need of a little comfort? Tuck into this open-faced, knife-and-fork sandwich smothered in Mornay sauce for a delicious Kentucky classic.
Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie
![Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Pyhy80xXxEWaEHHaF1W0wU7bg6c=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2425701_50yea45350_1-2000-e8a818f2aade45a3acdbcc62eeca59d9.jpg)
We can hardly celebrate in the South without bourbon or whiskey, whether it's in our cocktails, sauces and braises, or desserts. Bourbon and pecan pie are a match made in heaven, but this pie takes that combination to a whole new level.
Mini Tomato Sandwiches with Bacon Mayonaise
![Mini Tomato Sandwiches With Bacon Mayonnaise](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/YAF6_fuTW5wF0HHnPy4OeDDtIuU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2575601_wcibm_5492_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0-2000-6d0d9c410eb14dfda77e208936f29f8c.jpg)
Finger foods are a hit at any party, and heading into summer, these mini tomato and bacon sandwiches are begging to be served at gatherings, including your Derby day celebration. There's something about mini sandwiches on white bread that pairs perfectly with fancy hats.
Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole
![Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/iw4qXLAqZkkLMlE3zxbcbTwCCpE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kentucky_hot_brown_casserole_2548401_slowc_243.1_0_0_0_1_0-9a725b02b2234fdf92a07d35d6c45d99.jpg)
We love putting anything in a casserole dish, and that includes our twist on the Kentucky Hot Brown from Louisville.
Beet Pickled Deviled Eggs
![Beet Pickled Deviled Eggs](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/BhfZhZx9vgT0iwyVSVUfIlDGjLk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27027-Snacktime-DeviledEggs_0107-2000-51de0e0fcde5420ba4e89928ae61571a.jpg)
While we love traditional deviled eggs, these are just what your Derby Day menu is missing. Add some bright, festive color to your spread with these naturally-colored beauties.
Red Chipotle Pepper Jelly
![Red Chipotle Pepper Jelly](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/ZWhJ8oex7nU65Tqf7hS1zctqC5A=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27100_PepperJelly_0573-2000-d0ddd09faede4a56b95609f6ebe59aec.jpg)
Whether it's atop a block of cream cheese and served with crackers or slathered on a ham biscuit, this homemade pepper jelly goes with just about anything.
Bourbon Balls
![Bourbon Balls](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/1AcSreQ-nsLYClRfcGz5laHTYj4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Bourbon_Balls_023-2000-6d2cd4bda9964e0fabb0d59d1db11f49.jpg)
For a Kentuckian, bourbon balls are a must-have party food. In our opinion, the better the bourbon, the tastier the filling. These make-ahead gems are easy enough for casual get-togethers and fancy enough for special occasions.
Coffee-Rubbed Beef Tenderloin Crostini
![Coffee-Rubbed Beef Tenderloin Crostini](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/eV2fDsCa5q457JX1F37QUlbPnME=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2651501_BeefT_06-2000-d02187597d9c43fda1ee28c4fc385511.jpg)
This melt-in-your-mouth appetizer will be the standout of your party thanks to the ensemble of perfectly seasoned layers. Toasted baguette slices with silky caramelized onion butter and peppery arugula topped with thinly sliced tenderloin makes each bite delicious.
Kentucky Oaks Blush Lily
![Southern Living Kentucky Derby Oaks Lily cocktail](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/c-7VnUqK4ufri_PjFB4Akpop9Aw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Oaks_Lilly_Cocktail_008-128ba0cb1b4648dc9f47227ab633e113.jpg)
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
More than 40,000 servings of this lesser-known Derby Day cocktail are poured at Churchill Downs on race day. It's the perfect alternative to present alongside the traditional Mint Julep for all those who are bourbon averse.
Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp
![Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/vJO_vC-ypXIteegvf18Bj1ISJIA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/southern-living-bloody-mary-poached-shrimp-janfeb2022-537e89f051de4d0c91440a7a26607c36.jpg)
Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
From tailgates to brunches, Bloody Mary bars are a must-have, and these poached shrimp are just as essential—they're the ultimate light, buffet snack.
Sweet Tea Mint Julep
![Mint Julep Sweet Tea](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/qCcQUgz0A-eAw6-4rNMBahpOsfY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2686501_Bount_Mint_julep_tea_232-2000-1df8efb34d944461880b44c50ee9fbcb.jpg)
This iced cocktail features the best of two classic Southern drinks: the mint julep and sweet tea. Whip up this cocktail the first weekend of May, and we guarantee you'll want to keep making it though the summer months for porch sipping.
Creamy Spinach-Ricotta Crostini
![Creamy Spinach-Ricotta Crostini](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/L_mvgsEQbqJUIYkOwbJJLk-Z4qA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/26887_CheeseAppetizers_0484_Creamy-Spinach-Ricotta-Crostini-2000-92ef12e26ea1426991e251424167f7ca.jpg)
Add color and texture to your appetizer spread with these quick and simple crostinis. Ready in just 15 minutes, you won't miss a second of spending time with your guests or sipping on a julep.
Kentucky Beer Cheese
![kentucky beer cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5kRdrMH4LfFqhgxxZRiyFU1spwY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Kentucky_beer_cheese_3x4_001-1-49ea6a4101234408b8e408080116ae7c.jpg)
Though it originated in Kentucky, this regional dish has spread across the country. Similar to the South's favorite dip, pimiento cheese, this appetizer is easily served with pretzel sticks, crackers, or veggie sticks.
Mint Julep Slush
![Mint Julep Slush](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/RIPC1VwNM91wjYBhPQYOTa_NzRc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bourbon-drinks-2513002_webou_0616_0-2000-c9eba6ab3b5f4572883cf49ca227c401.jpg)
For those extra-warm Derby Days, we turned the classic Mint Julep that is served over crushed ice into a slushie. Blend just before serving and garnish with a mint sprig.
Kentucky Derby Cheese Hat
![Kentucky Derby Cheese Hat](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/O0Echv87hgaibJZQYxkhATHk0Eg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/derbyhat-e2a00b1225104eef90c513b5d8a0f324.png)
Take your snacking board to the next level on this special day by creating a cheesy take on the Derby hat with Brie (or any round cheese of your choosing). Add your own flair and frills with garnishes.
Cheese Dreams
![Cheese Dreams](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Yj5P1Aw6z9w-DV_1S3AuYPZc8qc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/southern-living_6600_Cheese_Dreams_3X4_093_preview-b95df52f93014b24b7d8958ff0ea82d5.jpg)
Antonis Achilleos; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn
There's really no occasion where this easy appetizer won't be the first one to go missing.
Ham-and-Cheese-Sliders
![Ham-And-Cheese Sliders](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/R4VtfBkSCB2H9h0dZCSbzyHY8e4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/seo_slbatch14_hamandcheesesliders_0014-s-2000-c5eb5acf98524c8081ee82b0a8cb9f9c.jpg)
We just can't get enough of buttery Hawaiian rolls, especially when they're filled with ham and cheese and brushed with honey mustard. These baked sliders will be a crowd-pleaser at any party.
Crudités Platter
![Curdités Platter](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/SgUaRlhNyFIe2D3kFE6LTpayJD4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2648101_LetsC_0203-2000-5f160849b895443a844a600b83477944.jpg)
A colorful crudités platter feels just right for the height of spring! Plus, a plateful of veggies is the perfect way to balance out the irresistible Hot Brown Party Rolls that are a must-have.
Jesse Houston's Pickled Shrimp Recipe
![Pickled Shrimp](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/QaXc6P2X20b46-9JrjhjJ-gT-Uc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/feb14342-a5b8-4202-883b-01fa4103553a_0-d6699fa3e47c4638bee99c7a7a9f2dae.png)
This make-ahead recipe requires minimal effort with delicious results. Soaked in Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and garlic, then marinated in apple cider vinegar and celery seeds, these crustaceans are full of flavor.
Pimiento Cheese
![Basic Pimiento Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/i7Nn93N1L4-tOJCzONmUvSExkME=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2548801_south0494_brighter_0_0_1_1_0_0_1_0_0_0_0_2_0_0-a4c27382546040caa0d153173568c3e0-0db1fb13c53b4721aabd768ba07c300b.jpg)
Jennifer Causey; Prop Styling: Christine Keely; Food Styling: Torie Cox
Complete any party spread with a heaping bowl of pimiento cheese.
Bacon-Cheese Gougères
![Bacon-Cheese Gougères](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/cpHw_NcinRSyDppIcrBaziFOwcw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/26887_CheeseAppetizers_0484_Bacon-Cheese-Gougeres-2000-0f315d2740c748429aa40c5fed504a03.jpg)
These delicious savory pastries might sound fancy, but these made with bacon, Gruyère, and aged white cheddar, they are surprisingly simple. While gougères are best served fresh, this light and airy baked good can be baked ahead of time, frozen, and reheated in the oven at 350°F for a stress-free Derby Day.
Mini Hot Browns
![Mini Hot Browns](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/2XzoNDZHi8dtwT8ZpHaXohek71Q=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/HotBrowns2_0-20f3b949b7d34636aedb0268306b258f.jpg)
Get your party started with mini open-faced turkey sandwiches. Pile turkey, bacon, and cheese high on pumpernickel for a guaranteed party hit.
Kentucky Slow-Cooker Burgoo
![Kentucky Slow-Cooker Burgoo](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/tCa3zJjnOu2a2doDaPGJ51ErPL4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2628701_Stews_burgoo_184-2000-ab67901ab6164b6ea9f8c8bc89978ae6.jpg)
First made popular in the late 1800s, burgoo typically includes a variety of fresh vegetables and a mixture of mutton, beef, pork, or poultry. While every recipe is different, we're sticking to pork for this slow-cooker version.
Hummingbird Cake
![Hummingbird Cake](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/QDzDwaHhA3OjRhxfI_i2NF-6YFs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Hummingbird-Cake_16x9-518298ccaba2423ba54c29d3080db66b.jpg)
This beloved cake is known for gracing spring gatherings across the South and Derby Day is no different. Its flavorful three layers are topped with cream cheese frosting and pecans.
Champagne Punch
![Champagne Punch](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/gLIEcQ3Jm3ZHrURJEzKo3dXkHwI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2448201_easte_14520_1-bf130ce49a714d13a943e8b84cc4e6b4.jpg)
Pop the bubbles and cheers to your winning horse with a glass of this easy and refreshing punch. Stir the four ingredients together in a punch bowl or pitcher, then garnish with frozen fruit of your choice.
Feta-Olive-Fresh Herb Cheese Ball
![Feta-Olive-Fresh Herb Cheese Ball](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/WU_rJ2H-0J0r2D-A1GzzimDUeNQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2429701_amazi34821_2_1_0_2_0-2000-529055a8f329496ba7c76789db95c745.jpg)
Serve this herby combination of our two favorite cheeses, feta and cream cheese with sliced cucumbers and your favorite crackers.