Kentucky Hot Browns: A Delicious Guide to This Classic Dish

Kentucky Hot Browns are a delightful culinary treasure that hails from the heart of the Bluegrass State. Originating in the 1920s at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, this open-faced sandwich has become a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. The combination of turkey, bacon, and a rich Mornay sauce, all baked to perfection, creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. I can’t help but smile every time I think about the first time I tasted a Kentucky Hot Brown; the creamy texture and savory flavors danced on my palate, leaving me craving more.

People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste but also for its convenience as a hearty meal that can be whipped up for brunch or a cozy dinner. The Kentucky Hot Brown is more than just food; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for gatherings or a simple family meal. Join me as we explore the rich history and the mouthwatering recipe that makes Kentucky Hot Browns a true Southern classic!

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white bread
• 8 slices of cooked turkey breast
• 4 slices of crispy bacon
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the Sauce

1. **Melt the Butter**: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Make sure it doesn’t brown; we just want it melted and bubbly. 2. **Add Flour**: Once the butter is melted, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken our sauce. 3. **Pour in Milk**: Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. 4. **Season the Sauce**: Once thickened, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Bread and Toppings

5. **Toast the Bread**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, toast 8 slices of white bread in a toaster or on a baking sheet in the oven until golden brown. This will give the bread a nice crunch and prevent it from getting soggy later. 6. **Cook the Bacon**: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 4 slices of bacon until crispy. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into smaller pieces.

Assembling the Hot Browns

7. **Layer the Bread**: In a large baking dish, arrange the toasted bread slices in a single layer. You can slightly overlap them if needed. 8. **Add Turkey**: On top of the bread, layer 8 slices of cooked turkey breast evenly. Make sure to cover the bread completely. 9. **Pour the Sauce**: Carefully pour the cheese sauce over the turkey and bread, ensuring that it covers everything evenly. Use a spatula to spread it out if necessary. 10. **Add Cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce. This will create a delicious cheesy crust when baked. 11. **Top with Bacon**: Finally, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheese layer. This adds a wonderful crunch and flavor to the dish.

Baking the Hot Browns

12. **Bake**: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. 13. **Broil for Extra Crispiness**: If you want an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to watch it closely, as it can burn quickly.

Garnishing and Serving

14. **Garnish**: Once out of the oven, let the Hot Browns sit for about 5 minutes. This will help the layers set a bit. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. 15. **Serve**: Cut the Hot Browns into squares or rectangles and serve warm. They are perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a cozy dinner. Pair them with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

– **Make it Ahead**: You can prepare the sauce and assemble the Hot Browns a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. – **Add Veggies**: Feel free

Conclusion:

In summary, the Kentucky Hot Browns are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a deliciously rich and comforting dish. This classic recipe combines layers of turkey, creamy Mornay sauce, and crispy bacon, all topped with a perfectly broiled layer of cheese that creates a delightful melty goodness. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a family gathering, or simply craving a hearty meal, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Kentucky Hot Browns with a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. You can also experiment with variations by substituting the turkey with leftover chicken or even adding sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own! I encourage you to give this Kentucky Hot Brown recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together and keep the tradition of this iconic dish alive!

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