Kentucky is famous for the Bourbon Trail, but the food scene is just as exciting. We are talking about killer barbecue and comfort foods that feel like home.
I am a big fan of the boozy bourbon balls and the rich beer cheese. And who doesn’t love a Mint Julep in the summer?
This list of 10 fantastic Kentucky foods has a little something for everyone.
1. Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
You can’t talk about Kentucky foods without mentioning the classic Hot Brown. This legendary open face sandwich comes from the Brown Hotel in Louisville where it got its name in the 1920s.
It is served hot and piled high with turkey and ham and bacon. Then it gets smothered in a rich cheese sauce.
It is a tad messy but super comforting and irresistible to boot.
2. Kentucky Butter Cake
Butter cake is another classic dessert that Kentucky does right. This recipe has been around since at least 1963 and won first place at a Pillsbury Bake Off Contest.
It is infused with syrup and buttery goodness. You will love the sweet buttery glaze and the dusting of powdered sugar.
It stores pretty well in the freezer if you happen to have leftovers.
3. Kentucky Burgoo
Burgoo is the Kentucky version of an Irish stew that features a wild mix of meat. It uses game meat like rabbit and pheasant and venison.
Game stock adds the complexity the broth needs to stand up to those strong flavors. It wouldn’t be proper without veggies like potatoes and lima beans and corn.
You will need to let this stew for a few hours for a savory bowl unlike anything you’ve ever had.
4. Kentucky Beer Cheese
There is beer cheese and then there is Kentucky beer cheese. This dip has a sharp bite and a spicy kick.
The key is to use a full bottle of something with more body than your average lager. Go with something bold like an imperial stout or IPA to mix with the sharp cheddar.
This will kill it at your next game day.
5. Corn Pudding
I admit corn pudding may not sound exhilarating but just wait until you sink your teeth into this. This unassuming dessert takes a box of classic Jiffy cornbread and turns it into a creamy buttery treat.
The texture is somewhere between pudding and cornbread and souffle. It is also a good use for that canned corn sitting in your pantry.
6. Kentucky Derby Pie
Have you tried Kentucky Derby pie yet? This humble pie is full of sweet and nutty filling with chocolate and walnuts.
It is so easy to make that it would be a sin not to whip one up tonight. You just mix all your ingredients and load them into a store bought pie crust.
It seriously doesn’t get any simpler than that.
7. Kentucky Style BBQ
One thing is for sure and that is that Kentucky style BBQ is finger licking good. This dish involves smoking seasoned mutton for hours on the grill.
You will need to keep an eye on the temperature and baste it with a tangy sauce. Once it is done you can serve it up with a sweet dipping sauce and plenty of crunchy slaw.
8. Mint Julep Fruit Salad
What happens when you take a Mint Julep and turn it into food? You get this spectacular dish.
Three types of balled melon are bathed in sugar infused bourbon with a hint of mint. It is fresh and fruity and boozy in the best way.
You could serve this as an appetizer or a dessert.
9. Kentucky Benedictine Dip
Nothing says hospitality like Benedictine Dip. It is a homely dip that is creamy and crisp.
You need the trifecta of cream cheese and mayo and sour cream to make it right. Cucumber gives it a sweet fresh pop that is even better with a couple dashes of green Tabasco.
This is a great appetizer to prepare ahead of time.
10. Kentucky Bourbon Balls
Are you hoping to make some party foods to celebrate the races? Add these bourbon balls to the list.
The outside features a crisp coating of chocolate with a delightful pecan topping. The inside is full of booze and crunchy pecans.
Bourbon adds beautiful caramel and vanilla notes to this dessert.