Here is a simple, classic Kentucky Hot Brown you can make at home.
introduction
The Kentucky Hot Brown is an open-faced hot sandwich from Louisville. It is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. For a simple dessert idea to pair with it, try this banana pudding brownies recipe for an easy sweet finish.
why make this recipe
- It is quick to put together.
- It makes a warm, filling meal for one or two.
- The cheese sauce is smooth and comforting.
- It is a classic Southern dish that impresses guests.
how to make Kentucky Hot Brown
Make a quick cheese sauce, toast the bread, layer turkey and tomato, then broil until bubbly. Finish with bacon and a bit of parsley.
Ingredients :
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for topping
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper
- 14 oz. roasted turkey breast, sliced in half
- 2 slices Texas toast, toasted
- 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced in half
- 4 slices bacon, cooked
- Paprika
- Parsley
Directions :
- In a small saucepan melt the butter and then slowly whisk in flour until combined to form a thick roux. Continue to cook roux for 2 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
- Whisk the heavy cream into the roux and cook over medium heat until the cream begins to simmer, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and slowly whisk in the cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste.
- Cut off the crusts of each piece of Texas toast.
- Place each slice of toast in an oven safe dish and cover each with 7 oz. turkey.
- Take the two halves of Roma tomatoes and place on top of each turkey breast.
- Pour the sauce over the dish, completely covering it and sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Place entire dish under a broiler until cheese begins to brown and bubble.
- Remove and place two pieces of crispy bacon in a crisscross pattern on top.
- Sprinkle with additional cheese, paprika and parsley and serve immediately.
how to serve Kentucky Hot Brown
Serve hot from the broiler. Place the dish on a plate and cut with a fork and knife. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side to balance the richness.
how to store Kentucky Hot Brown
- Store leftover sauce and sandwich separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Do not keep broiled sandwich long as toast will soften. Reheat sauce gently and warm sandwich in oven at 350°F until heated through.
tips to make Kentucky Hot Brown
- Use warm milk and cream to help the sauce come together smoothly.
- Grate cheese finely so it melts quickly.
- Toast the bread well for more texture after broiling.
- Watch the broiler closely so cheese browns but does not burn.
variation (if any)
- Swap Pecorino Romano for sharp cheddar for a milder, sharper flavor.
- Make a vegetarian version with grilled mushrooms or roasted eggplant instead of turkey and bacon.
- Add a splash of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a little tang.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover turkey?
A: Yes. Leftover roasted turkey works great. Warm it before assembling if it is cold.
Q: Can I make the cheese sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and keep it in the fridge for one day. Reheat gently on low and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Q: Is there a low-fat option?
A: You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
Q: How do I keep the toast crisp?
A: Toast well and assemble just before broiling. Serve immediately after broiling to keep some crunch.
Q: Can I broil more than two at once?
A: Yes, use a large oven-safe baking dish and space items so heat reaches each portion evenly.
Kentucky Hot Brown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: None
Description
A classic Southern open-faced sandwich from Louisville, rich and creamy with layers of turkey, tomato, and a delightful cheese sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for topping
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper
- 14 oz. roasted turkey breast, sliced in half
- 2 slices Texas toast, toasted
- 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced in half
- 4 slices bacon, cooked
- Paprika
- Parsley
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan and slowly whisk in flour until combined to form a thick roux. Continue to cook the roux for 2 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
- Whisk the heavy cream into the roux and cook over medium heat until the cream begins to simmer, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and slowly whisk in the cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cut off the crusts of each piece of Texas toast.
- Place each slice of toast in an oven-safe dish and cover each with 7 oz. turkey.
- Take the two halves of Roma tomatoes and place on top of each turkey breast.
- Pour the sauce over the dish, completely covering it and sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Broil the entire dish until cheese begins to brown and bubble.
- Remove and place two pieces of crispy bacon in a crisscross pattern on top.
- Sprinkle with additional cheese, paprika, and parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. Store leftover sauce and sandwich separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg