The Best Kentucky Derby Food: The Ultimate Guide
Kentucky Derby food – The Kentucky Derby isn’t just about the horses; it’s also an exciting celebration of Southern culture, and that includes the food!
Whether you’re hosting a Derby viewing party or enjoying the race at home, the traditional dishes for this iconic event can be just as fun as the actual race.
Since moving to Kentucky from San Diego 9 years ago, we’ve spent plenty of time at Churchill Downs and attended loads of Derby parties. I always look forward to the food as much as anything.
From classic mint juleps to savory bites like burgoo and hot browns, these Kentucky Derby foods are so much fun to try.
Let’s dive into some of the must-have dishes that make the Derby experience the best!
Classic Kentucky Derby Food Dishes
The first Saturday in May each year, the track at Churchill Downs especially comes alive. Try these delicious dishes at your next Derby themed party.
- Grilled Beef Tips with Kentucky Peppercorn Sauce, a classic Churchill Downs dish
- Old Forester Butter Shrimp & Orzo, a decadent and flavorful option
- Pan Roasted Chicken Breast, a comforting and satisfying choice
- Kentucky Hot Brown, a famous open-faced sandwich that usually includes turkey, bacon tomatoes, cheese and Mornay Sauce (which makes it). Mornay sauce is basically a French white cheese sauce. It’s usually got Gruyere and sometimes parmesan cheese.
- Burgoo is a hearty and traditional Kentucky stew. It’s usually made with pork, beef chuck, chicken, carrots, onion, corn, celery, and lima beans.
Fresh and Local Ingredients
- Bluegrass Fields Salad, featuring crisp Kentucky Bibb lettuce and fresh seasonal berries
- Grilled Corn & Tomato Salad, made with charred sweet corn and juicy cherry tomatoes
- Lemon Honey Harvest Brussels Sprouts, roasted to perfection with a zesty lemon-honey glaze
- Brown Butter Farro & Roasted Root Vegetables, a hearty and comforting dish
- Fresh herbs and edible flowers for food styling and garnishes
Kentucky Derby Appetizers
- Put together a Kentucky Derby themed charcuterie board complete with crackers, cheese and meats
- Pigs in a Blanket, a tasty and easy-to-make appetizer
- Deviled Eggs with dijon mustard and Country Ham, a twist on the classic deviled egg
Southern Comfort Food
- Pimiento Cheese, a classic dip served throughout the South
- Macaroni and Cheese with Buttery Crumbs, a creamy and comforting dish
- Fried Chicken, a Southern favorite perfect for a Kentucky Derby party
- Biscuits and gravy, a classic Southern breakfast dish
Unique and Delicious Drink Options
- Mint Julep Sweet Tea, a refreshing and unique drink option
- Kentucky Mule, a twist on the classic Moscow Mule
- Blackberry-Mint Julep, a fruity and refreshing twist on the classic Mint Julep
- Vodka-Rose Punch, a lovely pink-hued punch perfect for a Derby party
- Mint Julep, the official drink of the Kentucky Derby
- Old Forester Mint Julep, made with Old Forester, simple syrup, infused with fresh mint, and crushed ice
- If a Mint Julep isn’t your thing you can try a Lily which is my favorite. It’s 1 part vodka, 1 part sweet & sour mix, 1/4 part triple-sec, and 3 parts cranberry juice. Yum!
- Of course straight bourbon is a classic Kentucky choice. Check out my post on the best bourbon. Fun choices include Woodford Reserve
- If you prefer wine, they serve Kendall Jackson at Churchill Downs
Desserts
- Chocolate Pecan Pie with Bourbon, a twist on the classic pecan pie
- Red Velvet Cake, a classic Southern dessert
- Bourbon Balls, a no-bake chocolatey treat perfect for a Derby party
- Derby Pie – an open faced chocolate and walnut pie- so good!
Hosting a Kentucky Derby Party
1. Embrace the Theme
Decorate your space with Kentucky Derby-inspired touches. Think mint julep cups, horse racing banners, and elegant floral arrangements. Don’t forget to add some greenery and roses, which are synonymous with the Derby.
2. Encourage Derby Attire
The Kentucky Derby is known for its fashion, so encourage your guests to dress in their best Derby attire. Ladies can wear big Derby hats. For outfit inspiration check out my post on the best Derby dresses. The men can sport seersucker suits or bow ties. It adds to the event and makes for great photos!
3. Set Up a Betting Station
Add some excitement by setting up a mock betting station where guests can place small bets on their favorite horses. You can even offer fun prizes for those who pick the winning horse. It’s a great way to engage everyone in the race! My friends do this every year and it’s really cool- especially for the guys.n
4. Create a Viewing Area
Make sure you have a comfortable spot where everyone can gather around to watch the race during your Kentucky Derby Party. Whether it’s a big-screen TV, a projector, or a cozy corner with plenty of seating, make sure everyone has a good view of the action!
5. Provide Fun Party Favors
Send guests home with themed party favors like mini bottles of bourbon, Derby-inspired cookies, or custom hats. It’s a great way to leave them with a memorable souvenir from the event.
6. Incorporate Horse Racing Games
If you want to keep the fun going before the race starts, consider setting up a few horse racing games, like a DIY “horse race” using a simple board game or even a mini track for toy horses.
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Conclusion
No matter how you’re celebrating the Kentucky Derby, the food is an essential part of the experience.
From delicious bites like hot browns to refreshing mint juleps, these iconic dishes bring a taste of Kentucky’s rich culinary tradition right to your table.
Just because you can’t make it to Churchill Downs, doesn’t mean you can throw an entertaining event.
So, gather your friends, put on your best Derby attire, and enjoy the flavors that make this event so special.
Here’s to a race full of excitement and a spread full of flavor!
Hi I’m Erica! TV news anchor and mom to 4 littles. I’m obsessed with creating those “wow” moments in life through crafting at home, cool travel adventures and special celebrations with loved ones. Thanks for joining me on this adventure!
