Whether you’re in it for the horses, the hats or the mint juleps, the Kentucky Derby is always a good time. Known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports” our goal is always to make a delicious spread that’s just as lively as the race itself—full of Southern favorites and Derby classics like pimento cheese and farro salad. Whether you’re hosting a party at home or attending someone else's and taking a dish to pass, these recipes are sure to come in handy. We’ve rounded up plenty of winning picks but, when you're talking about Kentucky recipes, nothing is more iconic than hot browns. Damaris Phillips puts a fun spin on the classic sandwich by deconstructing the components (bread, cheese, turkey and more) and baking them in individual servings. They’re perfect for any party.

Ree adds a little heat to her classic pimento cheese by incorporating fiery adobo sauce.

It’s not a true Derby without mint juleps. This classic recipe requires just three ingredients — mint, sugar and plenty of Kentucky bourbon.

A rich, tender cake soaked in a buttery vanilla glaze, this Southern classic delivers melt-in-your-mouth decadence with every bite. Perfectly simple yet indulgent, it’s the kind of dessert that feels both nostalgic and irresistibly special.

Classic Kentucky Benedictine is the perfect partner to a mint julep. Serve the cucumber-cream cheese spread with fresh veggies or crackers for dipping.

Buttery homemade biscuits and an herby honey butter make Ree’s ham sandwiches out-of-this-world delicious.

Freeze pineapple chunks in an ice cube tray to make fun and fruity ice cubes that will wow your party guests! Trisha’s secret? She uses canned pineapple, reserves the juice and stir it into classic sweet tea.

You can’t celebrate the Kentucky Derby without bourbon. Use it as a filling in this chocolatey walnut pie for a dessert that’s fit for a day at the races.

Valerie’s mini sandwiches are an easy way to add a touch of elegance to any event.

Celebrate the Derby with traditional Southern dishes like fried green tomatoes. You can serve them as a side dish or as an appetizer with ranch dressing for dipping.

Looking for a simple side dish? Boil potatoes and green beans, then toss the veggies with a quick basil dressing.

The combo of honey and pickle brine (sweet, sour and salty) makes for the perfect sauce to toss with chunks of fried chicken. We use thigh meat because it stays juicer and add a little buttermilk to our dredging flour; it helps make it shaggy, which makes the chicken crunchier.

Who doesn’t love a deviled egg? Sunny includes pickled jalapenos in her filling for a mild heat that’s wonderfully tangy.

The sweet kick of bourbon in these confections will transport you straight to Kentucky. We dipped the pieces in a bittersweet chocolate coating and topped them off with crunchy pecan. The result is a Derby-worthy treat you can make and enjoy all year round.

Stuff pimento cheese into burger patties for a fun and filling twist on the traditional dip.

Punch up your party with Kardea’s boozy beverage. She sweetens bourbon with ginger ale, maraschino cherry juice and a pinch of cinnamon.

Toss canned beans with olive oil, white wine vinegar, mustard and hot sauce for a perfectly seasoned side dish.

Get golden-brown grits with the addition of Pepper Jack and sharp Cheddar.

There’s a lot to love about this seafood salad — it’s easy to prepare, tastes delicious and makes a showstopping dish on any table.

A candied walnut crust and boozy chocolate filling will make these treats the hit of any party.

Sip the best of both worlds with this cross between sweet tea and mint juleps.

You can’t go wrong with Ree’s five-star pulled pork. She roasts the pork low and slow until it’s tender, sweet and deliciously juicy.

Introduce fresh flavors to your spread with Molly’s fruity salad. She adds toasted hazelnuts for a delicious crunch that pairs perfectly with sweet strawberries.

This Kentucky-based stew is thick and hearty with various proteins and vegetables that simmer for a long time until tender and rich in flavor. Burgoo has stood the test of time because it not only uses pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients, including game meats and starchy veggies, but also serves a large group of people — making it the perfect addition to your spread if you're hosting a crowd.

As Trisha says, “Deviled ham is a Southern classic!” She uses pickled okra in place of relish for a unique pop of acid.