It’s almost Derby Day! Every year in May, the Kentucky Derby kicks off at Churchill Downs, where spectators come from near and far to watch the notable horse race (and show off their best smocked dresses). It's been a tradition for 149 years! Whether or not you're interested in the horses, the day is also a perfect excuse for throwing a spring-inspired watch party with your friends. Along with cute spring attire and over-the-top hats, you can prepare a spread of Kentucky Derby party foods and drinks that are worthy of the Triple Crown. From Southern comfort food favorites to bourbon co*cktails, this list of Kentucky Derby recipes will have you off to the races!
If hosting a Kentucky Derby party, there are a few must-haves to make the day complete. First, co*cktails! And more specifically: mint juleps. The classic icy beverage made with bourbon, sugar, and mint has been the official drink of the derby since 1938. Then, there's the food. Some traditional derby dishes include pimento cheese, tea sandwiches, and deviled eggs. Here, you'll find those recipes and so much more. Like Southern fried okra, homemade biscuits, ham and cheese sliders, and tomato pie. We've even included a few spring desserts that would be perfect for a Southern-inspired party. Try hummingbird cake, pecan pie bars, or one of the peach recipes ahead. Odds are that these dishes will be the real winners of the day.
1
Deviled Eggs
It wouldn't be a Southern party without deviled eggs! This classic recipe will show you how to make them perfect every time.
Get the Deviled Eggs recipe.
2
Mint Julep
You only need three ingredients to make this classic Derby drink: mint, simple syrup, and bourbon. Plus, lots of ice! If you want to celebrate like they do at Churchill Downs, serve it up in a traditional silver julep cup.
Get the Mint Julep recipe.
3
Ham and Cheese Sliders
The classic combination of ham and cheese will be a crowd-pleaser for the whole family. Then add mayo, honey, and pickled jalapeños for extra kick.
Get the Ham and Cheese Sliders recipe.
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4
Southern Fried Okra
One of the most popular ways to cook okra is to fry it! That's because it gets nice and crunchy—perfect for popping in your mouth while watching the race.
Get the Southern Fried Okra recipe.
5
Buttermilk Biscuits
Golden, tender, flaky biscuits are delicious no matter how you serve them. Drizzle with honey for a sweet treat or use them to make ham sandwiches for something savory.
Get the Buttermilk Biscuits recipe.
6
Peach Bellini
Here's a fun way to get the party started: Kick off your celebration with sparkling wine mixed with fresh peach and strawberry puree.
Get the Peach Bellini recipe.
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7
Tea Sandwiches
If you're hosting a crowd, these bite-sized sandwiches are perfect for snacking on. Try making a variety, like the traditional smoked salmon, classic ham and cheddar, and vibrant curried chicken shown here.
Get the Tea Sandwiches recipe.
8
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Celebrate spring with a tasty appetizer featuring seasonal produce, like these prosciutto-wrapped asparagus! They're salty bundles of joy.
Get the Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus recipe.
9
Pecan Pie Bars
Your favorite sticky-sweet and nutty pie gets a fun makeover with this variation that's made into bars. It makes it easy for guests to grab one while they watch the race!
Get the Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
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10
Chicken Fried Chicken
You can't just serve co*cktails and appetizers at your Kentucky Derby party. And fried chicken is a Southern favorite, so why not make this chicken fried chicken to satisfy your cravings.
Get the Chicken Fried Chicken recipe.
11
Southern Potato Salad
Here's the perfect side to go along with that fried chicken. Or even with ham sandwiches or any other Southern dish you might be serving.
Get the Southern Potato Salad recipe.
12
Bacon-Ranch Cheese Ball
This recipe combines three things we love: bacon, ranch seasoning, and cheese! Serve it up with those classic buttery crackers for that feeling of nostalgia.
Get the Bacon-Ranch Cheese Ball recipe.
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13
Tomato Pie
One bite of this savory pie will send you straight to summer in the South. Plus, it's so pretty, too!
Get the Tomato Pie recipe.
14
Hushpuppies
Hushpuppies are basically fried bites of cornbread that are studded with chopped jalapeño and sharp cheddar cheese. The batter is simple and gets super crispy.
Get the Hushpuppies recipe.
15
Dill Dip
Having guests over? Dill dip is the answer. Looking for snack while watching tv? Dill dip is the answer. You get the picture!
Get the Dill Dip recipe.
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16
Hummingbird Cake
This show stopping cake will take home the grand prize! It's sweet, tender, comforting, and perfectly spiced.
Get the Hummingbird Cake recipe.
17
Chicken Pasta Salad
A make-ahead pasta salad is perfect for bringing to a potluck or entertaining guests. And it's even better when it uses a simple supermarket hack like rotisserie chicken!
Get the Chicken Pasta Salad recipe.
18
Pimento Cheese
There's no party dip more Southern than pimento cheese! Take Ree's word for it, the dip is "super addictive!"
Get Ree's Pimento Cheese recipe.
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19
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Pile mounds of this melt-in-your-mouth pork onto pretzel buns or even mini slider buns for an easy main course. The slow cooker really does all the work.
Get the Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe.
20
Peach Raspberry Sheet Pan Crisp
Looking for a winning dessert that feeds a crowd? Everyone will want a scoop of this sweet, comforting crisp.
Get the Peach Raspberry Sheet Pan Crisp recipe.
