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Kentucky Hot Brown

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The Kentucky Hot Brown is a classic Southern dish that’s both indulgent and comforting, originating from the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. This open-faced sandwich is made with turkey, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy Mornay sauce, all layered over toasted bread and baked to golden perfection. Often served as a brunch dish or hearty lunch, the Kentucky Hot Brown is a crowd-pleaser that combines savory, creamy, and crispy elements in every bite.

Ingredients

  1. For the Mornay Sauce:
    1/4 cup unsalted butter
    1/4 cup all-purpose flour
    2 cups whole milk
    1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    1/4 teaspoon salt
    1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
    For the Hot Brown:
    4 slices of toasted white or whole wheat bread
    2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced (preferably roasted or leftover turkey)
    1/2 cup crispy bacon, crumbled
    1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
    1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Mornay Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.

  1. Assemble the Hot Brown: Toast the bread slices until golden and crispy. Layer each toasted bread slice on a baking sheet. Top each slice with sliced turkey breast, then spoon a generous amount of the Mornay sauce over the turkey. Add crumbled bacon and sliced tomatoes on top.
  2. Bake the Hot Brown: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled sandwiches in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and golden brown. Optionally, broil the sandwiches for the last 2-3 minutes for a crispier top.
  3. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the Hot Browns from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Notes

  1. Vegetarian Hot Brown: Substitute the turkey with roasted vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and zucchini for a vegetarian version.
  2. Spicy Hot Brown: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the Mornay sauce for a spicy kick.
  3. Different Meats: Instead of turkey, try using ham, chicken, or even roast beef for a twist on the traditional Hot Brown.
  4. Cheese Variation: You can swap the cheddar cheese for Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor profile.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/kentucky-hot-brown/