Discover a new twist on the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich with our delightful Kentucky Hot Brown Dip recipe. This creamy and savory dip combines all the flavors of the traditional sandwich into a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering, this dip will quickly become a favorite. Join us as we dive into how to make this delicious dip step-by-step and explore variations to suit your taste buds.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make Kentucky Hot Brown Dip:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, very soft
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 to 8 ounces turkey breast, cut into cubes
- 8 strips of bacon, cooked and roughly chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 teaspoons parsley, roughly chopped for garnish
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- Crackers or bread, for dipping
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Roux:
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Add Milk and Cream Cheese:
- Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth. Add very soft cream cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Season the Dip:
- Stir in sour cream, ground nutmeg, garlic powder, ground cumin, and ground paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for topping.
- Combine Turkey and Bacon:
- Fold in cubed turkey breast and roughly chopped cooked bacon until evenly distributed throughout the dip mixture.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the prepared dip mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Top with Tomatoes and Cheese:
- Arrange halved cherry tomatoes over the top of the dip. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the tomatoes.
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dip is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with roughly chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot with crackers or bread for dipping.
Cooking Notes
- Cream Cheese Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is very soft before adding it to the sauce mixture to ensure smooth blending and a creamy texture in the dip.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use either shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, or a combination of both, based on your preference for a milder or sharper cheese flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Allow additional baking time if starting from chilled.
Variations
Vegetarian Option:
- Skip the turkey and bacon, and instead, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian twist on this dip.
Spicy Kick:
- Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dip mixture for a spicy variation.
Lighter Version:
- Substitute low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheese to lighten up the dip without compromising on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Kentucky Hot Brown Dip is best served hot and bubbly, straight from the oven. Pair it with a variety of crackers, crusty bread slices, or even vegetable sticks for dipping. This savory dip makes a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or a delicious snack for game days.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply follow the instructions up to assembling in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake as directed, allowing a few extra minutes if starting from chilled.
2. Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are recommended for their melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a smoked cheese for added depth of flavor.
3. How can I adjust the spiciness of this dip?
To adjust the heat level, simply increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to suit your preference for spiciness.
Kentucky Hot Brown Dip offers a flavorful twist on a beloved classic, bringing together creamy cheese, savory turkey, crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes in a warm and comforting appetizer. Whether served at parties, gatherings, or simply as a treat for yourself, this dip is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures of this dish and savor each delicious bite!
