Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches

The Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich is a beloved Southern classic that originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. This open-faced sandwich features toasted bread topped with turkey, tomato, crispy bacon, and a rich cheese sauce, then broiled to golden perfection. It’s a comforting and indulgent dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Make the Roux:
   • Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
3. Add the Milk:
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese:
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season the Sauce:
   • Add the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, white pepper, and salt and pepper to taste.
   • Stir well to combine and set the sauce aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Prepare the Bread:
   • Preheat your broiler.
   • Place the toasted sourdough bread slices on a baking sheet.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Place an equal amount of sliced cooked turkey breast on each slice of toasted bread.
   • Add a slice of beefsteak tomato on top of the turkey.
   • Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the tomatoes.
3. Add the Sauce:
   • Spoon the prepared cheese sauce generously over each sandwich, ensuring the turkey and tomato are well covered.

Step 3: Broil the Sandwiches

1. Broil:
   • Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler.
   • Broil the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and lightly browned.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Add Bacon:
   • Remove the sandwiches from the broiler and top each one with 2 slices of crispy cooked bacon.
2. Serve:
   • Serve the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches immediately while hot and bubbly.

Cook Notes and Variations

Cook Notes:

• Cheese Sauce: Make sure to whisk continuously when making the roux and adding the milk to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Broiling: Keep a close eye on the sandwiches while they are under the broiler to prevent burning.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Version:
  • Substitute the turkey with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and use vegetarian bacon or omit it entirely.
• Spicy Version:
  • Add a bit more cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or drizzle some hot sauce over the top before serving.
• Ham and Turkey Hot Brown:
  • Use a combination of sliced cooked ham and turkey breast for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Version:
  • Use gluten-free bread and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as Gruyère, Swiss, or a blend of cheeses. Sharp cheddar adds a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before using.

4. What can I serve with Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches?

These sandwiches are quite rich and filling on their own, but they pair well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.

5. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use other types of bread such as French bread, ciabatta, or a hearty multigrain bread. Just make sure it is sturdy enough to hold the toppings and cheese sauce.

Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches are a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. With their rich cheese sauce, tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bacon, these open-faced sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is easy to follow and full of flavor. Give these classic Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches a try and enjoy a taste of Southern comfort. Happy cooking!