Kentucky Hot Brown is a classic Southern open-faced sandwich layering turkey, crispy bacon, and tomato slices on toast and crowned with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This hot, indulgent dish is a signature comfort food from Louisville tradition.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, pepper and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth. Gradually whisk in the cream and milk, then bring the mixture to a boil. Cook and stir until the sauce is thickened, one to two minutes. Reduce the heat to low, then add the cheese and stir until it's melted. Keep the sauce warm.
In each of two small cast-iron or other ovenproof skillets, place one slice of toast in the center of the skillet. Cut the remaining two slices of toast in half diagonally and arrange one triangle on either side of the toast in the center of the pans. Arrange the turkey over the toast and add two tomato halves, cut sides up, to each skillet. Pour the sauce over the turkey, toast and tomatoes in both skillets.
Bake the Hot Browns until they're lightly browned and bubbly, 10 to 15 minutes. Top them with bacon, a little more cheese and a sprinkle of parsley and paprika. Serve them immediately.
Assemble and serve immediately for best texture. Store leftover sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
Yes. Prepare the roux and sauce up to 2 hours ahead, then reheat gently over low heat, whisking occasionally. Add milk or cream if it thickens too much.
Texas toast is traditional and ideal because it's thick, sturdy, and won't get soggy under the hot cheese sauce. White bread or brioche are acceptable alternatives.
Yes. Deli turkey or rotisserie chicken work well. Layer 2–3 slices per toast slice for proper coverage.
Keep heat moderate, whisk constantly as you add cheese, and avoid boiling. Use whole milk and heavy cream for stability; lower-fat versions may curdle.
No, it contains turkey and bacon. Omit both and add extra sautéed vegetables or mushrooms for a vegetarian version, but it won't be a traditional Hot Brown.
