Kentucky Hot Brown
A melty, toasty open-faced turkey sandwich smothered in a creamy, savory Mornay sauce and sprinkled with smoky bacon.
Total: 25 minPrep: 15 minCook: 10 minServes 2Difficulty: Medium⭐ 4.7 (85+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 4 slices hearty white bread, toasted
- 8 oz cooked turkey breast, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Steps
- 1 Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- 2 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
- 3 Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- 4 Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Swiss cheeses until melted.
- 5 Layer turkey on toasted bread slices.
- 6 Drizzle Mornay sauce over the turkey.
- 7 Sprinkle crumbled bacon and optional Parmesan cheese on top.
- 8 Bake on a baking sheet until bubbly and edges are golden, about 10 minutes.
- 9 Serve immediately.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Variations
- Add grilled mushrooms or tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Use ham instead of turkey for a different twist.
Substitutions
- Substitute Gruyère for Swiss cheese for a nuttier flavor.
- Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.
Pairings
- Southern-style collard greens
- Buttermilk biscuits
Nutrition
Calories:
650 kcal
Fat:
38g fat
Carbs:
35g carbohydrates
Protein:
40g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
5g sugar
Sodium:
1000mg sodium
Tips
- For a richer sauce, use a mix of milk and heavy cream.
- Toast the bread until golden to hold up to the saucy topping.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a classic Southern sweet tea.
FAQ
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the turkey with roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.