The Kentucky Hot Brown is an iconic open-faced sandwich that originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. This comforting dish features layers of toasted sourdough bread, tender turkey, juicy tomato slices, and crispy bacon, all smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a decadent treat that’s perfect for a special brunch or a hearty lunch.
Ingredients for Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter: The base of the roux for the sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides a creamy texture for the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper: Provides a subtle heat.
- Pinch of white pepper: Adds a mild peppery flavor without overpowering the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances the flavors.
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 slices toasted sourdough bread: The foundation of the sandwich, providing a sturdy and flavorful base.
- 9 oz sliced cooked turkey breast: Tender and juicy turkey, the main protein in the sandwich.
- 1 beefsteak tomato, sliced and patted dry: Adds freshness and a juicy texture.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavor of the tomatoes.
- 8 slices crispy cooked bacon: Adds crunch and a savory, smoky flavor.
Instructions: How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Make the Roux:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux is golden and bubbly.
- Add the Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Cheese and Seasonings:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, and white pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Prepare the Bread and Turkey:
- Place the toasted sourdough bread slices on a baking sheet. Arrange the sliced turkey evenly over each slice of bread.
- Add the Tomato:
- Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then place a slice or two on top of the turkey. Lightly season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt.
- Top with Sauce:
- Generously spoon the cheese sauce over the sandwiches, covering the turkey and tomatoes.
- Broil the Sandwiches:
- Preheat your broiler. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep a close eye on the sandwiches to prevent burning.
- Add the Bacon:
- Remove the sandwiches from the broiler and top each one with two slices of crispy cooked bacon.
Step 3: Serve
- Serve the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches hot, with any extra cheese sauce on the side for dipping.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Turkey: Use freshly roasted turkey breast for the best flavor, or you can use leftover turkey from a holiday meal. If you’re in a pinch, high-quality deli turkey works as well.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold flavor, but you can substitute it with other cheeses like Gruyère or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Tomatoes: Patting the tomatoes dry is essential to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
- Bacon: For added flavor, use thick-cut bacon or try a maple-glazed or peppered variety.
Variations of Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches
- Spicy Hot Brown: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian Hot Brown: Substitute the turkey with sautéed mushrooms or a slice of grilled eggplant, and use vegetarian bacon or omit the bacon altogether.
- Mini Hot Browns: Create mini versions using smaller slices of bread or baguette slices, perfect for appetizers or party snacks.
- Chicken Hot Brown: Substitute the turkey with cooked chicken breast for a different flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently over low heat before using, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.
2. What type of bread is best for Hot Brown sandwiches?
Sourdough bread is traditional, but any sturdy bread like Texas toast or French bread will work. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold up under the cheese sauce.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses would work well in the sauce.
4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
To prevent curdling, make sure to cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) thoroughly before adding the milk. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly, and keep the heat moderate.
5. What can I serve with Hot Brown sandwiches?
Serve these sandwiches with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
6. Can I add eggs to the Hot Brown sandwich?
Yes, you can top each sandwich with a poached or fried egg before adding the cheese sauce for an extra rich and indulgent version.
A Classic and Indulgent Sandwich
The Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is a decadent, comforting dish that brings together the best of Southern flavors. With its layers of toasted sourdough, tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and rich cheese sauce, it’s a sandwich that’s sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, this classic recipe is a true taste of Kentucky.
So gather your ingredients and indulge in this timeless, comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
