Hot Brown Sandwich
A rich, comforting open-faced sandwich topped with turkey, bacon, tomato, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, perfect for brunch or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan and stir in the flour; cook over low heat, blending until smooth.
- Stir in salt and white pepper.
- Gradually add turkey or chicken broth and milk; cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Toast bread slices and layer with sliced turkey and tomato.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the assembled sandwiches.
- Top with cooked bacon, paprika, and parsley.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade turkey broth instead of chicken broth. If you're short on time, pre-cooked turkey slices work well. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with Gruyère for a different taste. When making the sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hot Brown Sandwich with a side of crispy fries or a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Deviled Macaroni Salad for a delightful spread at gatherings. For a touch of freshness, consider adding a side of steamed green beans or a simple cucumber salad to enhance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the Hot Brown Sandwich to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain the bread's texture, rather than using a microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Brown Sandwich contains roughly 582 calories, with 22g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), iron (66% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 472mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
Thick-cut white bread or Texas toast is ideal for the Hot Brown Sandwich as it can hold the weight of the toppings and sauce well without becoming soggy. Whole grain or sourdough can also be used for added flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt the Hot Brown Sandwich to be vegetarian by omitting the turkey and bacon. Use vegetable broth instead of turkey broth and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty alternative. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can mimic the bacon flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).