Hot Brown Sandwich(Originally Served At The Brown Hotel In Louisville, Kentucky)
A creamy, savory hot brown sauce with a rich onion flavor and subtle spices, perfect for draping over sandwiches or toast for a comforting, nostalgic meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter or margarine in a saucepan.
- Add the minced onion and cook slowly until light brown, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add the flour and blend until it forms a smooth paste with the onion.
- Gradually add hot milk and seasonings, cooking, stirring constantly and briskly, until the sauce is thick and smooth, about 25 minutes.
- Strain the sauce.
- If not used immediately, stir occasionally to prevent a crust from forming on the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a splash of cream to the sauce. You can substitute the onion with shallots for a milder taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the flour slightly. Be sure to stir the sauce constantly to avoid lumps. This recipe can be made ahead of time, similar to how you might prepare Peanut Butter Cookies(No Sugar) for a gathering.
Serving Suggestions
The Hot Brown Sandwich is best served open-faced on toasted bread, topped with turkey, bacon, and the creamy sauce. Pair it with a crisp green salad or classic potato chips for crunch. It also pairs beautifully with Ice Cream On A Stick for a delightful dessert after such a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to restore its smooth consistency. If it thickens too much, whisk in a little milk to achieve the desired texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Brown Sandwich(Originally Served At The Brown Hotel In Louisville, Kentucky) contains roughly 834 calories, with 21g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 571mg per serving (25% 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 sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently when ready to use. Be sure to stir it well to bring back the creamy texture.
What type of bread works best for the sandwich?
Thick slices of Texas toast or sourdough bread work wonderfully for Hot Brown Sandwiches, as they provide a sturdy base to hold the toppings and sauce without becoming soggy.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! You can substitute the turkey with roasted vegetables or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Additionally, use vegetable broth and omit the bacon to keep the dish meat-free.
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).