What to Serve Your Guests for the Ultimate Derby Watch Party

Oct 14, 2023 Damaris Phillips

Each year, millions gather around their televisions to watch the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,® thus giving anyone an excuse to throw a party. As a Louisville native, I grew up attending Kentucky Derby parties, and I can confirm that one of the most important aspects of a good party is the food and beverages served.

This year, I partnered with Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby to curate a unique at-home menu of authentic Derby dishes so that you and your guests can experience the ultimate race day experience at home.

If you’re looking for some easy-to-prep dishes that will make your guests gush, we’ve got the menu for you.

 

Country Ham and Pepper Jelly Crostini

Bread, cream cheese, country ham, and pepper jelly – YUM! This country ham and pepper jelly crostini is an easy appetizer to make for your guests. It will serve approximately 8 guests per serving, and the combination of the salty country ham with a sweeter pepper jelly is so delicious.

 

Fried Chicken Salad

For the main course, the fried chicken salad will be a hit. The key here is the sauce. In a large bowl, you will mix mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, Italian seasoning, hot sauce and lemon juice and these ingredients mixed together will give the fried chicken a nice flavor. Both a tasty and filling dish for your guests.

 

Bourbon Ball Milkshakes

This works as both a cocktail AND a dessert for your guests. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make. The bourbon ball milkshakes serve either four 16oz servings or eight 8oz servings. All you need is butter pecan ice cream, bourbon, milk, and hot fudge sauce. If you’re feeling very fancy, we recommend adding whipped cream, toasted pecans and cherries to garnish.

There you have it! With these three, simple dishes, you will have delicious food and beverage options that will have your guests begging for the recipes. I hope you all enjoy them as much as I did creating them!