The Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is a classic Southern dish with a rich history. Originating from the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, in the 1920s, this open-faced sandwich has become a beloved staple of Southern cuisine. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that combines turkey, bacon, and tomato, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, then baked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch, a special dinner, or anytime you’re craving a taste of the South.
Ingredients:
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Pinch of white pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 slices toasted sourdough bread
- 9 oz sliced cooked turkey breast
- 1 beefsteak tomato, sliced and patted dry
- Pinch of salt
- 8 slices crispy cooked bacon
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Continue whisking until the roux is smooth and slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. This step ensures that the flour is cooked and won’t leave a raw taste in the sauce.
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking frequently, until it begins to thicken. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, and white pepper, stirring to combine. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Keep the sauce warm on low heat while you prepare the sandwiches.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the slices of toasted sourdough bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a baking dish. Evenly distribute the sliced turkey breast over each slice of bread. The turkey should be thickly sliced and fully cooked. If your turkey is cold, you can warm it slightly before adding it to the sandwiches.
Next, place a slice of tomato on top of the turkey. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the tomatoes to enhance their flavor. The tomatoes add a fresh, juicy contrast to the richness of the sauce and the savory turkey and bacon.
3. Add the Sauce and Bacon:
Generously spoon the warm cheese sauce over the top of each sandwich, covering the turkey and tomato completely. The sauce should be thick and creamy, cascading over the sides of the sandwiches.
Top each sandwich with two slices of crispy bacon. The bacon should be fully cooked and crispy, adding a smoky crunch to the sandwich. The combination of the creamy sauce, tender turkey, and crispy bacon is what makes the Hot Brown so irresistible.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven and bake the sandwiches for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly golden around the edges.
Once the sandwiches are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. The cheese sauce will be very hot, so it’s best to let them cool slightly to avoid burning your mouth.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional paprika for a pop of color. You can also add a side of your favorite pickles or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort food. The combination of savory turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese sauce, all atop toasted sourdough, creates a satisfying and indulgent meal. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delightful dish with a glass of sweet tea or a classic Southern cocktail for the full experience.
