The Kentucky Hot Brown is a mouthwatering open-faced sandwich that'll transport your taste buds to the historic Brown Hotel in Louisville. Created in the 1920s, this delightful dish features juicy roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy Mornay sauce, all layered on toasted bread. It's the perfect balance of savory and indulgent flavors – no wonder it's become a beloved regional specialty! You'll love how the melty cheese and crunchy toppings come together for a comforting, satisfying meal. If you're craving a taste of Southern hospitality, the Kentucky Hot Brown is the way to go.
Key Takeaways
- The Kentucky Hot Brown is a classic open-faced sandwich that originated in the 1920s at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky.
- The dish features roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy Mornay sauce served on toasted bread.
- The Kentucky Hot Brown has gained popularity as a regional specialty, celebrated for its indulgent flavors and representing Southern comfort food traditions.
- The preparation involves assembling the ingredients, making the Mornay sauce, and baking the sandwich until the cheese melts and the bread crisps.
- The Kentucky Hot Brown is widely enjoyed in restaurants, especially in Kentucky, and has become a staple of the state's cuisine.
History
When did the Kentucky Hot Brown first emerge as a regional culinary sensation? This iconic open-faced sandwich was created in the 1920s at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky.
The story goes that the hotel's chef, Fred K. Schmidt, came up with the dish to satisfy late-night guests who were tired of the typical ham and eggs.
The Kentucky Hot Brown features roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and a rich Mornay sauce, all served on toasted bread. It quickly became a local favorite, delighting diners with its indulgent flavors and comforting warmth.
Over the decades, the Kentucky Hot Brown has remained a beloved regional specialty, showcasing the culinary creativity and pride of Kentucky.
Today, it continues to delight both local and visiting foodies, cementing its place as a true classic of Southern cuisine.
Recipe
The Kentucky Hot Brown is a classic open-faced sandwich that originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. It's a rich and indulgent dish that showcases the flavors of turkey, bacon, and a creamy Mornay sauce.
The Hot Brown is a beloved regional dish that has gained popularity nationwide. Its combination of savory and decadent elements makes it a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 8 slices of white or sourdough bread
- 8 ounces of roasted turkey breast, sliced
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of warm milk
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions: In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside. Toast the bread slices until golden brown. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and top each with a portion of the sliced turkey.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan and cheddar cheeses. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spoon the cheese sauce over the turkey-topped bread slices. Top with the cooked bacon. Broil the Hot Browns until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
To ensure the best results, use high-quality ingredients and freshly grated cheeses for the Mornay sauce. The bread should be toasted just until crisp to provide a sturdy base for the toppings. Broiling the Hot Browns at the end helps to melt the cheese and create a delicious, golden-brown top.
Cooking Steps
First, you'll need to slice up some turkey and toast up some bread.
Then, you'll whip up a creamy Mornay sauce.
Step 1. Slice Turkey and Toast Bread
Slice the turkey into thin, even pieces, ensuring each bite is filled with its rich, savory flavor. This step is essential for creating the perfect Kentucky Hot Brown. Take your time and use a sharp knife to get those slices just right.
Next, it's time to toast the bread. Grab some fresh, fluffy bread and pop it in the toaster or oven until it's golden brown and crispy. You want a sturdy base that can hold up to the delicious toppings coming next.
Be careful not to overtoast, as you don't want the bread to be too crunchy.
Once your turkey is sliced and the bread is toasted, you're well on your way to assembling this classic Kentucky dish. The next step is to layer the bread with the turkey and cover it in a rich, creamy sauce.
Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing!
Step 2. Make Mornay Sauce
To craft the perfect Mornay sauce, begin by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Once the butter is melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it's light golden brown.
Slowly pour in warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Now, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses.
Season the Mornay sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. The cheese should melt completely, resulting in a rich, creamy, and velvety sauce.
If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
With the Mornay sauce ready, you're one step closer to assembling the delicious Kentucky Hot Brown.
Step 3. Assemble the Hot Brown
Once the Mornay sauce is ready, you can begin assembling the Kentucky Hot Brown.
First, take two slices of toasted bread and place them on a baking dish. Next, arrange two slices of roasted turkey breast on top of the bread. Ladle the warm Mornay sauce generously over the turkey, making sure to cover every inch. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce.
Now, it's time to add the finishing touches. Place two slices of crispy bacon on top of the cheese, crisscrossing them for a decorative touch.
Finally, pop the dish under the broiler for a few minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
The Kentucky Hot Brown is now ready to be served! This open-faced sandwich is a delightful blend of savory flavors, with the creamy Mornay sauce, tender turkey, and smoky bacon creating a truly satisfying dish.
Step 4. Bake Until Golden Brown
Preheat your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help the Hot Brown develop a lovely golden-brown crust.
Carefully transfer the prepared Hot Brown from the counter to a baking dish. Make sure to keep the dish level so the ingredients don't slide around.
Now, pop the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, though – you want the cheese to melt and the bread to turn crisp, but not let it burn!
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your mouth watering in anticipation.
Once the timer goes off, use oven mitts to remove the Hot Brown from the oven. The top should be beautifully golden-brown and bubbly.
Allow it to cool for a minute or two before serving. This extra time lets the flavors meld together perfectly.
Now, get ready to dive in and enjoy your scrumptious Kentucky Hot Brown!
Step 5. Garnish With Tomato and Bacon
After the Hot Brown emerges from the oven, complete the dish by adding the final garnishes.
First, grab a couple of juicy tomato slices and arrange them on top of the cheesy, bubbly casserole. The bright red color of the tomatoes will add a nice pop of freshness and contrast to the rich, savory flavors.
Next, take crispy bacon strips and criss-cross them over the tomatoes. The salty, smoky bacon adds the perfect finishing touch, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
You can even sprinkle on a few extra pieces of bacon for good measure – after all, you can never have too much bacon!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the Kentucky Hot Brown is a culinary masterpiece that continues to captivate taste buds across the nation.
This iconic open-faced sandwich is a true celebration of rich flavors and indulgent textures. The perfectly toasted bread serves as a sturdy foundation, supporting the decadent layers of roasted turkey, creamy Mornay sauce, crispy bacon, and juicy tomatoes.
Each bite is a delightful symphony, with the savory, the tangy, and the crunchy all coming together in perfect harmony.
What makes the Kentucky Hot Brown so special is its ability to transport you to the heart of Kentucky's culinary heritage. It's a dish that's deeply rooted in tradition, yet remains relevant and beloved by modern food enthusiasts.
Whether you're enjoying it at the historic Brown Hotel or whipping it up in your own kitchen, the Kentucky Hot Brown is a true gastronomic treasure that will leave you craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Origin of the Kentucky Hot Brown?
You'll be delighted to know the origin of the Kentucky Hot Brown!
This scrumptious dish was first created in the 1920s at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. The hotel's chef, Fred Schmidt, came up with the idea to satisfy late-night diners.
He combined turkey, crispy bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce – a true taste sensation!
The Kentucky Hot Brown quickly became a local favorite and has since spread across the country, delighting palates everywhere.
How Does It Differ From a Traditional Open-Faced Sandwich?
You know, a traditional open-faced sandwich is really different from a Kentucky Hot Brown.
Instead of just having a slice of bread with toppings, the Kentucky Hot Brown is a whole meal on its own! The Kentucky Hot Brown is a delightful open-faced sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and a creamy Mornay sauce, all piled onto thick slices of Texas toast and broiled until bubbly and golden. With its rich and savory flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in Southern cuisine. And when it comes to Southern cuisine, one cannot underestimate the benefits of boiled peanuts. These savory snacks are not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.
It's got toasted bread, turkey, bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce on top.
The flavors are so much richer and more satisfying.
It's like taking a regular sandwich and turning it into a decadent, comforting dish.
Yum!
Can the Kentucky Hot Brown Be Made Ahead of Time?
You can definitely make an open-faced sandwich ahead of time!
Just be sure to assemble it right before serving so the bread doesn't get soggy.
Store the ingredients separately and put it all together when you're ready to eat.
This way, you can prepare in advance and enjoy a fresh, delicious sandwich without any hassle.
It's a great time-saving tip that'll have your taste buds dancing with joy!
What Are the Most Common Toppings Used in the Dish?
When it comes to tasty toppings, you'll find all sorts of delicious options. Some of the most common ones include crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and plenty of melty cheese.
You might also see tender turkey or ham piled on top. And don't forget the creamy sauce that brings it all together!
With so many tempting toppings to choose from, you'll be in for a real treat when you dig into this scrumptious dish.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Prepare a Kentucky Hot Brown?
Preparing a delicious meal can take some time, but it's often worth the effort.
Depending on your cooking experience and the complexity of the recipe, it typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to have a hearty, satisfying dish ready to enjoy.
The key is to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and savor the process.
With a little patience and attention, you'll be able to create a meal that's both mouthwatering and rewarding.
Chloe is the go-to for classic Southern comfort food. From buttery biscuits to crispy fried chicken, Chloe knows how to whip up soul-warming meals that make you feel at home. She also loves hosting outdoor barbecues and picnics, bringing a touch of Southern hospitality to every dish.
