Kentucky Hot Brown Recipe

The Kentucky Hot Brown is far more than just an open-faced sandwich—it’s Southern comfort on a plate, a bubbling and crave-worthy dish that brings together roasted turkey, crisp bacon, ripe tomatoes, and a silky Mornay cheese sauce. Originating from Louisville, this savory creation is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a celebration, inviting everyone at the table to dig in and savor those rich, melty layers. Whether you’re a Southerner at heart or just crave something indulgently cheesy, this classic sandwich is a surefire way to win friends and influence dinner guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component in this Kentucky Hot Brown plays a starring role, so don’t skimp! These ingredients are simple, but each one adds a pop of flavor, creamy mouthfeel, or irresistible crunch to the finished dish. Keep your pantry staples handy and gather the best possible bread, turkey, and cheese you can find—trust me, it’s worth it!

• Thick white bread, toasted: The sturdy base soaks up the cheese sauce beautifully without getting soggy. Try a bakery-fresh loaf for extra flavor.
• Roasted turkey breast, sliced: Opt for freshly sliced or leftover roasted turkey for a moist, flavorful bite.
• Ripe tomatoes, sliced: Juicy tomatoes brighten up the dish and add a lovely, fresh contrast.
• Cooked bacon: Thick-cut bacon delivers a smoky crunch on top and ties all the flavors together.
• Unsalted butter: Forms the creamy base for your Mornay sauce—use good quality butter for the best results.
• All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening your sauce without lumps.
• Whole milk: Adds richness and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
• Heavy cream: For that extra-creamy, indulgent mouthfeel.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping): Brings sharp, salty depth to the cheese sauce and a golden finish when broiled.
• Shredded white cheddar cheese: Melts into the Mornay for added creaminess and flavor complexity.
• Salt and pepper: Taste as you go! Balance the seasoning to let the cheese and turkey shine.
• Pinch of nutmeg: Just a dash elevates the sauce with a subtle warmth.
• Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh, herby aroma to every serving.

How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown

Step 1: Toast Your Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toast four thick slices of white bread until they’re golden and crisp on the outside but still tender inside. This will ensure each Kentucky Hot Brown holds up to all the toppings and luscious sauce, keeping every bite satisfyingly substantial.

Step 2: Make the Mornay Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour. Let it cook for a minute or two until it smells toasty and looks pale golden—this roux is the key to a creamy, lump-free sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until it thickens up and coats the back of a spoon. Turn the heat to low and add the Parmesan, white cheddar, a pinch of nutmeg, and plenty of salt and pepper. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is glossy and smooth. Take a moment to taste—it should be rich, velvety, and just a touch nutty.

Step 3: Build Your Sandwich Layer

Place your toasted bread slices onto the prepared baking sheet. Layer on generous slices of roasted turkey breast and juicy tomato. The fresh turkey is savory and satisfying, while ripe tomatoes add a slight acidity that cuts through the richness. Don’t worry about being too neat—part of the charm of the Kentucky Hot Brown is its rustic, overflowing nature.

Step 4: Smother in Cheese Sauce

Now for the magic moment: generously spoon that warm, silky cheese sauce over the turkey and tomatoes until every inch is blanketed. The sauce will cascade down the sides, creating creamy puddles of goodness—exactly what you want.

Step 5: Bake until Bubbling

Give each sandwich a final sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan for that irresistible finishing touch, then slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until everything is hot and the sauce is bubbling and golden in spots. Your kitchen will smell like a dream!

Step 6: Add Crispy Bacon & Finish

Top each Kentucky Hot Brown with strips of freshly cooked, crispy bacon. This bold move adds savory crunch, making every bite an adventure in texture and taste. Shower the finished sandwiches with a generous flurry of chopped, fresh parsley for color and a fresh herbaceous note.

How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown

Garnishes

A classic Kentucky Hot Brown shines with just a few finishing touches. Scatter fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a pleasant, grassy aroma. Feel free to grate a little extra Parmesan right before serving for bonus golden crust and a hint of sophistication.

Side Dishes

Since the sandwich is rich and filling, consider light, refreshing sides that balance out the decadence. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, some lightly dressed coleslaw, or even a dish of sweet pickles work really well. Don’t forget a tall glass of sweet iced tea or a Kentucky bourbon cocktail if you want to channel true Southern hospitality.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist on tradition, assemble the Kentucky Hot Brown in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a personal, hearty portion. Need a bite-sized take for parties? Try mini versions layered on crostini. You could also serve the cheese sauce on the side, letting guests pour it themselves—the dramatic cheese-pour moment never fails to dazzle!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Kentucky Hot Brown, let the sandwiches cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to two days. Be sure to keep the bacon separate if you want it to stay crisp when you reheat.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze assembled Kentucky Hot Browns, the texture of the cheese sauce may suffer a bit when thawed. For best results, freeze the turkey and bread together, and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve. Wrap ingredients tightly in foil or freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers (minus the bacon) in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm and bubbling—about 10 minutes. For best bacon crunch, re-crisp in a skillet or under the broiler for a few seconds before plating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy and the sauce separate.

FAQs

What makes the Kentucky Hot Brown unique compared to other sandwiches?

The Kentucky Hot Brown stands out thanks to its open-faced construction, decadent cheese sauce, and classic Southern flavors. Unlike most sandwiches, it’s served hot from the oven, smothered in Mornay sauce, and topped with bacon, making it luxurious and totally satisfying.

Can I substitute chicken for turkey?

Absolutely! While roasted turkey is traditional, cooked chicken breast makes a great substitute, especially if you’re working with leftovers from another meal. Just make sure it’s sliced thick so it doesn’t dry out during baking.

Which cheeses work best for the sauce?

Parmesan and white cheddar give the Mornay sauce its signature flavor, but you can experiment with gruyère, fontina, or even smoked gouda if you’re feeling creative. The key is to use cheeses that melt well and have enough sharpness to layer extra flavor into your Kentucky Hot Brown.

Is it okay to make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prep all the components in advance—toast the bread, cook the turkey, and fry the bacon—then assemble and bake just before serving. The cheese sauce is best made fresh, but you can refrigerate it for a day and gently reheat over low heat if needed.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Kentucky Hot Brown?

Definitely! Substitute roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for the turkey, and use vegetarian bacon or crispy fried shallots for texture. The cheese sauce is already meat-free, so you’ll still enjoy all that rich, cheesy goodness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow your dinner crowd or just indulge in some Southern comfort, the Kentucky Hot Brown is a must-try. It’s rich, savory, and bubbling with flavor from the very first bite. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to showstopper—give it a try, and you’ll see why this Louisville classic has a cult following!

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