When the craving for a hearty, home-cooked meal strikes, there’s nothing quite like a Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich to bring comfort and joy. The rich aroma of melting cheese and crisp bacon dancing together in the kitchen warms the soul, reminding me of cherished family gatherings. I first encountered this delightful creation at a quaint diner while visiting Louisville, and I knew I had to recreate it at home.
This sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of layers—thick slices of succulent roast turkey breast, savory bacon, and ripe Roma tomatoes, all draped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s a cinch to whip up. It’s an easy gourmet dish that feels fancy but comes together with minimal fuss, making it perfect for both casual dinner nights and when you want to impress unexpected guests.
Join me as I guide you through crafting this delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich, a dish sure to dazzle your taste buds and banish the fast food monotony for good!
Why is the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich so special?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of creamy cheese sauce and savory bacon elevates this sandwich to a whole new level.
Layered perfection: With thick slices of turkey and juicy tomatoes, each bite is a taste explosion that you won’t forget.
Quick yet gourmet: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or surprising guests, it comes together effortlessly for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Comforting warmth: The rich aroma will fill your kitchen, making it a delightful addition to my collection of comfort food recipes.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family or friends, this sandwich is sure to please every palate, banishing bland fast food for good!
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce
• Salted butter – adds a rich flavor base for the sauce.
• All-purpose flour – helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Half and half – creates a creamy texture that envelops the sandwich in goodness.
• Pecorino Romano cheese – lends a sharp, savory depth to the sauce.
• Ground nutmeg – provides a subtle warmth that enhances the cheese flavor.
• Kosher salt and pepper – essential for seasoning and enhancing taste.
For the Sandwich
• Thick sliced roasted turkey breast – ensures a hearty and satisfying bite.
• Texas toast – offers a sturdy and crispy base for layering all the delicious components.
• Cooked bacon – adds crispy texture and smoky flavor, elevating the whole sandwich.
• Roma tomato – brings freshness and a juicy pop to balance the richness.
• Parsley – a fresh garnish that adds a touch of color and flavor.
Craft this Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich with these vibrant ingredients and experience a comforting meal that’s anything but ordinary!
How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
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Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat, allowing it to bubble gently. This will create a luscious base for your creamy sauce.
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Whisk in Flour: Add the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute. You want to develop a light roux with a subtle golden color.
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Blend in Half and Half: Gradually add the half and half while whisking to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
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Incorporate Cheese and Nutmeg: Add the Pecorino Romano cheese and ground nutmeg, stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is thick and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Season to Taste: Season the cheese sauce with kosher salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Assemble the Sandwich: Layer the thick sliced roasted turkey breast, crispy bacon, and sliced Roma tomato generously on the toasted Texas toast.
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Pour on the Sauce: Top the sandwich generously with the rich cheese sauce, making sure to cover all the fillings for that gooey goodness.
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Garnish: Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley, adding a pop of color and flavor to your magnificent creation.
Optional: Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to suit your palate and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for the Texas toast and a cornstarch slurry instead of flour for the sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a zesty flavor boost.
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Veggie Delight: Replace turkey with roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian option.
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Cheese Lovers: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a unique flavor profile in the sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cheese sauce for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish.
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Bacon Alternatives: Use pancetta or turkey bacon if you’re looking for something leaner without sacrificing flavor.
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Creamy Upgrade: Substitute half of the half and half with cream for an even richer sauce that takes indulgence to the next level.
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Extra Crunch: Top the sandwich with crispy fried onions for an added layer of texture and flavor that delights every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheese sauce up to 3 days in advance by following the steps of melting the butter and whisking in the flour and half and half, then adding the cheese and seasoning it to perfection. Store the sauce in an airtight container refrigerating it until you’re ready to assemble. Additionally, you can slice the turkey and tomatoes a day before to save time. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce, assemble your sandwich with the bacon and toasted Texas toast, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
• Perfect Sauce Consistency: Ensure your cheese sauce is creamy but not too runny; it should cling to your sandwich without dripping too much.
• Cook Bacon Crisp: For the best texture, cook your bacon until it’s crispy—this adds an essential crunch that complements the creamy elements.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Choose ripe Roma tomatoes for a burst of flavor; they enhance the sandwich and balance the richness of the cheese sauce.
• Avoid Lumps: When adding half and half, whisk continuously to avoid lumps—this ensures a smooth, velvety cheese sauce that elevates your Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t skip the kosher salt and pepper; they enhance the flavors and make every bite more delicious.
• Toasting Texas Toast: Lightly butter and toast the Texas toast until golden brown; this provides a sturdy base that withstands all the delicious layers.
What to Serve with Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich?
Building a delicious meal around this delightful sandwich creates an experience that delights all the senses.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Perfectly golden and slightly sweet, these fries add a satisfying crunch and balance the richness of the sandwich. They make for a delightful contrast in both texture and flavor, elevating your meal further.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing crunch, cutting through the sandwich’s creaminess. Plus, it adds a bright pop of color to your plate!
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the juiciness and sweetness of corn on the cob is an irresistible summer side. Just imagine the buttery kernels alongside that decadently cheesy sandwich—pure bliss!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts with a hint of caramelization provide a hearty bite that stands up to the sandwich’s flavors. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a lovely tang that will dance on your palate!
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw paired with a tangy dressing complements the smooth textures of the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich, providing a great contrast. It’s a classic side that adds a pop of color, too!
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Chilled Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweetened iced tea complements the savory flavors beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable. You can customize it with lemon or mint for an added twist.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finale, homemade chocolate chip cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth. Their warm and gooey texture feels like a hug after the rich, savory delights of your sandwich!
How to Store and Freeze Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
Fridge: Store any leftover components separately, keeping the sandwich assembled in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the sandwich, it’s best to freeze just the sauce and turkey components, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen components overnight in the fridge, then reheat the sauce on low heat on the stove until warm, and assemble the sandwich.
Room Temperature: Do not leave the assembled Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey is best for a Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use thick-sliced, roasted turkey breast. Whether you roast your own or purchase it from the deli, ensure it’s fresh and moist for that perfect bite!
How should I store leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich?
I recommend storing leftover components separately. Place the assembled sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best experience, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
Can I freeze a Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the turkey and cheese sauce tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Note that it’s best to freeze them separately from the bread to maintain texture.
How do I reheat frozen Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich components?
Thaw the frozen turkey and cheese sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, gently reheat the cheese sauce over low heat in a saucepan, stirring until warm. Toast fresh Texas toast and assemble your sandwich for a homemade delight!
What if my cheese sauce is too thick or has lumps?
If your cheese sauce turns out too thick, whisk in a little more half and half or milk over low heat until you reach the desired consistency. If you have lumps, use an immersion blender for a smooth finish. Be sure to whisk continuously while adding the liquid next time to avoid lumps.
Is this Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich safe for everyone?
While this recipe is versatile, those with dairy allergies should substitute the half and half and cheese with lactose-free alternatives or omitting them. Always check all ingredients for potential allergens to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!
Irresistible Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich You’ll Crave Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat, allowing it to bubble gently. This will create a luscious base for your creamy sauce.
- Add the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until a light roux forms.
- Gradually add the half and half while whisking to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Incorporate the Pecorino Romano cheese and ground nutmeg, stirring until the cheese melts completely, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the cheese sauce with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the roasted turkey breast, crispy bacon, and sliced Roma tomato on the toasted Texas toast.
- Top the sandwich with the rich cheese sauce, covering all the fillings evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.