When it comes to Southern cuisine, Kentucky is often overlooked as a culinary hub. But don’t let that fool you – the Bluegrass State has a rich history of delicious and iconic dishes that are sure to satisfy any appetite. From comfort food classics like fried chicken and burgoo stew, to sweet treats like derby pie and blackberry cobbler, Kentucky’s culinary scene is a true reflection of its warm and welcoming culture. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 18 classic Kentucky recipes that are sure to make your taste buds do the Bluegrass two-step.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
The Kentucky Hot Brown is a legendary sandwich originating from the historic Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. This open-faced sandwich is filled with turkey, bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce, all piled high on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of toasted white bread
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup of Mornay sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Mornay Sauce:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange toasted bread slices on a baking sheet.
3. Layer sliced turkey, bacon, and diced tomatoes on top of the toast.
4. Spoon Mornay sauce over the filling.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Kentucky Bourbon Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Kentucky Bourbon Glazed Ham recipe. The perfect blend of brown sugar, bourbon, and spices creates a rich glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) ham, bone-in or boneless
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Kentucky bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, bourbon, honey, Dijon mustard, cloves, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover every surface.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
6. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-6 pound ham.
Southern Fried Chicken with Kentucky Spices
Experience the bold flavors of the Bluegrass State with this twist on traditional Southern fried chicken, infused with a hint of Kentucky spices. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Kentucky-style seasoning blend (containing ingredients like cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Kentucky-style seasoning blend, and baking powder.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, adjusting heat as needed to maintain temperature.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Kentucky Derby Pie
Get ready to experience the sweet taste of tradition with this iconic Kentucky Derby Pie recipe! This rich and decadent dessert is a staple at many Derby parties, and its creamy filling and crunchy crust are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. In a separate bowl, melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and eggs.
5. Pour filling over crust and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until filling is set and edges are slightly puffed.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kentucky Burgoo Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s a staple of Kentucky cuisine, perfect for cold winter nights or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb pork sausage, sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup burgoo seasoning (or a combination of paprika, chili powder, and ground cumin)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef and pork sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up any meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the burgoo seasoning, potatoes, beef broth, and diced tomatoes.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Kentucky Cornbread Dressing
A classic Southern side dish that’s perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, this Kentucky Cornbread Dressing recipe combines the comforting flavors of cornbread, sausage, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon sage
– 1/2 teaspoon thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add melted butter, onion, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kentucky Beer Cheese Dip
Experience the bold flavors of the Bluegrass State with this creamy and addictive dip. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a snack with friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup beer (any light to dark lager works well)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, beer, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kentucky Benedictine Spread
This creamy spread is a staple of Kentucky cuisine, perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip. Made with a blend of mayonnaise, pickle relish, and herbs, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons pickle relish
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pickle relish, dill, and chives.
2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This spread is ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Kentucky Spoonbread
Spoonbread is a classic Southern side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. This creamy, cheesy delight is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, and butter. Heat over medium heat until butter melts.
3. Remove from heat and stir in flour, salt, and baking powder. Let sit for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Beat in eggs until well combined.
6. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kentucky Blackberry Cobbler
Rich and fruity, this classic Kentucky dessert is a staple of Southern cuisine. This cobbler recipe combines tender blackberries with a crispy, buttery crust for a sweet treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine blackberries, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the berries to release their juice.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Pour the blackberry mixture into the crust-lined dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter, milk, and beaten egg over the blackberries.
6. Roll out the remaining pie crust to fit the top of the cobbler.
7. Place the rolled-out crust on top of the filling, pressing edges to seal.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Kentucky Bourbon Balls
These bite-sized bourbon balls are a staple of Kentucky traditions and perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these rich and indulgent confections in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, corn syrup, and bourbon. Mix until well combined.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
3. If using nuts, fold them into the mixture.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place bourbon balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bourbon balls are ready to devour straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious Kentucky Bourbon Balls!
Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich with creamy pasta and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked turkey (or chicken)
– 1 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup crispy breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine turkey, hot sauce, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, turkey mixture, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese and crispy breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kentucky Fried Catfish
Get ready to sink your teeth into crispy, flavorful catfish with a Southern twist! This recipe combines the classic fried fish with a hint of Kentucky-style spices for a taste sensation that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated catfish for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total.
Kentucky Style BBQ Ribs
Experience the rich flavors of Kentucky’s signature barbecue style with this simple recipe for tender and juicy ribs smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup Kentucky-style BBQ rub (containing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C) or use a charcoal grill with wood chips for added flavor.
2. Remove membrane from the back of the ribs and season with Kentucky-style BBQ rub, making sure to coat evenly.
3. Place ribs in the smoker or grill, closing lid if using a grill. Cook for 4 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, Worcestershire sauce, and honey to create BBQ sauce.
5. Brush ribs with BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Kentucky Chocolate Walnut Pie
Kentucky Chocolate Walnut Pie Recipe: A rich and decadent dessert that combines the flavors of dark chocolate, toasted walnuts, and a hint of Kentucky spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and melted butter until well combined. Stir in chopped chocolate until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Fold in toasted walnut halves and vanilla extract.
5. Roll out pie crust and place into a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chocolate-walnut mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie
A twist on the classic pecan pie, this recipe adds a rich and smooth Kentucky bourbon flavor to create a unique dessert that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup Kentucky bourbon (such as Woodford Reserve or Maker’s Mark)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Stir in pecan halves and Kentucky bourbon until the nuts are evenly coated.
4. Roll out pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with pecan mixture.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kentucky Country Ham Biscuits
These flaky, buttery biscuits are infused with the savory flavor of country ham and are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Elevate your morning routine with this Southern classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup country ham, finely chopped
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in chopped country ham.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until dough forms.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Roll out to 1-inch thickness and use biscuit cutters or a glass to cut shapes.
8. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kentucky Butter Cake
This classic Kentucky Butter Cake recipe yields a tender and decadent dessert, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With its velvety texture and subtle buttery flavor, this cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a taste of the Bluegrass State with these 18 classic Kentucky recipes that are sure to satisfy your Southern cravings. From comforting dishes like Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich and Southern Fried Chicken with Kentucky Spices, to sweet treats like Kentucky Derby Pie and Kentucky Bourbon Balls, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection. With a mix of traditional favorites and modern twists, these recipes showcase the best of Kentucky cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a decadent dessert, these classic Kentucky recipes are sure to delight.
Leave a Reply