It’s mint julep season, which means your Kentucky Derby party is around the corner. If you’re planning a watch party, then you need these Kentucky Derby food ideas. From bourbon to hot browns and classic to creative, there’s a recipe here for all your entertaining needs.
Your ultimate guide to Kentucky Derby food
I love a good theme. A theme drives the direction of the occasion, gives guests an idea of what to expect and can even help determine the menu.
Derby Day parties are especially fun. While I can’t say that I’m an avid follower of horse racing, the Kentucky Derby is an exception for me — and for most! Whether it’s the fancy hats, the iconic drinks, or the mouthwatering food, there’s just something about the Derby that draws fans from all over to cheer on the field.
The Kentucky Derby is a race of thoroughbred horses on the first Saturday in May each year. It takes place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky and is steeped in tradition. After all, it’s been around since 1875!
Bourbon, chocolate and southern delicacies are staple at any Derby celebration. As long as you have some of each, you can’t go wrong!
Quick tips for hosting
Pre-mix your drinks: By prepping drinks in big batches ahead of time, you’ll stop yourself from getting stuck behind the bar. Skip the ice and garnishes and leave the drinks in the fridge until you’re ready to serve so the drinks look and taste their freshest.
Offer options: If you set up your drinks into a self-serve bar, you can mix all the ingredients except the alcohol. Set out several different choices that guests might like, including a zero-proof spirit for those that prefer to skip the booze.
Lean into the theme: Draw inspiration from the horses who are competing and give your drinks or food fun names! Plus, give your drinks their own fabulous toppers by using fun garnishes to mimic the festive hats worn at the Derby.
What to serve with Kentucky Derby food
To go with your Derby spread, mix up some of the most popular Kentucky Derby cocktails. Kentucky is the home of bourbon whiskey, after all, so any kind of bourbon cocktail will definitely be a hit.
The most well-known cocktail is the mint julep, a bourbon and mint mashup served ice-cold in a silver cup. If you’re serving these, stock up on fresh mint leaves and make some mint simple syrup.
But the julep is not the only drink served at Churchill Downs. You can also try the Kentucky Oaks Lily and the Woodford Reserve Spire.
For the non-drinkers, prepare virgin mint juleps or a big batch of cold brew iced tea with lemon.
The best Kentucky Derby food
The most popular Kentucky Derby recipes are ones that you can order pretty much any time in Louisville. Any of these dishes would be authentic additions to your party menu.
- Derby Pie is a delicious chocolate pecan pie that is a staple any time you visit Louisville.
- The Kentucky Hot Brown is a gravy-soaked bacon sandwich that Louisville is famous for.
- Southern staples like cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches and pimento cheese sandwiches tend to make an appearance at Derby parties.
- You could also serve some pork bbq. This apple cider pulled pork is always a hit.
- Fried chicken is another Southern recipe that everyone loves.
Here’s what else I would serve for a winning Derby Day:
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