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Crispy Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich Recipe Easy Gooey Cheese Delight

Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich - featured image

A classic Southern sandwich featuring crispy toast, rich Mornay sauce, melty cheese, turkey, and bacon, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • Thick-sliced white bread (preferably day-old or slightly toasted)
  • Cooked turkey breast, sliced (leftover roasted turkey works beautifully)
  • Bacon strips, crispy cooked (thick-cut preferred)
  • Shredded Swiss cheese (Gruyère as alternative)
  • Butter, unsalted, softened
  • All-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • Whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier sauce)
  • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Dijon mustard
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Tomato slices (optional)
  • Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
  3. Toast the bread slices lightly in the same skillet with a bit of butter, about 2 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Transfer to the baking sheet.
  4. Layer turkey slices generously on each piece of toast.
  5. Make the Mornay sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons (45 g) butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons (24 g) all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly browned but not burnt.
  6. Slowly whisk in 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk a little at a time, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar and ½ cup (50 g) shredded Swiss cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be thick but pourable.
  9. Pour the Mornay sauce over the turkey-topped bread slices, then sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for a golden crust.
  10. Place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
  11. Remove from oven, top with crispy bacon strips and optional tomato slices. Garnish with chopped parsley.
  12. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Use day-old bread for better texture. Whisk sauce constantly to avoid lumps. Cook bacon until very crispy but not burnt. Watch cheese closely when broiling to prevent burning. If sauce thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk to loosen. Rotate baking sheet halfway through broiling for even browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Kentucky Hot Brown, sandwich, crispy toast, Mornay sauce, turkey, bacon, cheese, comfort food, Southern recipe