One of our favorite weekends is finally here, and I’ve gathered all of my best Kentucky Derby recipes for you.
We love watching the Kentucky Derby — Eddie is a huge fan, and it might just be his favorite day of the year.
If you own a copy of The Pretty Dish, you already know there’s a full Derby Day menu in there, filled with fun snacks and party-worthy dishes. I also have plenty of recipes on the blog, so I wanted to round up some favorites for anyone planning to celebrate on race day.
17 of My Favorite Kentucky Derby Recipes
If you’re a pimento cheese fan, you’re in luck — I’ve got plenty of ideas.
Start with the BLT pimento cheese flatbread and the crispy chicken tacos with gouda and pimento cheese that I shared recently. Other favorites include bacon ciabatta crostini with candied jalapeños and pimento cheese, pimento cheese brunch grits, our cheesiest pimento cheeseburgers, and pimento cheese chicken salad on honey butter biscuits. Each one showcases that creamy, tangy pimento cheese flavor that’s perfect for Derby gatherings.
And yes, there’s also a pimento cheese grilled cheese topped with spiralized pickle slaw — a fun, savory twist that’s surprisingly addictive.
For seafood lovers, pickled shrimp is a lovely make-ahead option that serves well as an appetizer, on a salad, or with avocado. For something lighter and bright, ambrosia whipped yogurt parfaits are festive and simple. If you want a showstopping dessert, try the five-ingredient strawberry rose tart, or go all out with a chocolate poundcake topped with a bacon-bourbon frosting for a rich, indulgent finish.
And of course, mint juleps — the classic Derby cocktail.
Some of my top julep variations include blueberry mint juleps and fresh watermelon mint juleps (they’re both favorites and it’s hard to choose). Frozen peach and vanilla mint juleps and pineapple mint juleps are excellent, too. If you prefer a nonalcoholic or playful twist, consider a strawberry mango mint julep–inspired fruit salad topped with whipped marshmallow for a sweet, festive treat. For guests who’d rather skip bourbon, a DIY bellini bar is a cheerful alternative.
I’d love to hear what you’re making this year or what your go-to Derby dishes have been in the past. I’m leaning toward a smoked gouda pimento cheese pizza — yes, please.