Hot Browns
A rich and savory brunch classic featuring turkey, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, perfect for hearty mornings or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan and stir in flour.
- Cook for 2 minutes and gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
- Season the sauce with salt.
- Add some of the sauce to beaten egg yolks, then return the mixture to the saucepan. Heat through and keep warm.
- Arrange cooked turkey slices on toasted English muffins.
- Top each muffin with sauce, grated Cheddar cheese, a tomato slice, 1 tablespoon of butter, and a sprinkling of brown sugar.
- Optional: Prepare ahead and refrigerate at this point.
- Before serving, broil the assembled muffins for 3 to 5 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Garnish with crispy bacon and warmed sautéed mushrooms before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cheeses, like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, in addition to the Cheddar. If you want a lighter version, swap out half of the butter for olive oil. To save time, you can use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking turkey breast from scratch. Additionally, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Hot Browns make an excellent brunch dish and pair beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes, like Murphy Brown'S Sauce Potatoes, or roasted asparagus. A light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, making it a perfect option for a gathering or a cozy family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place under the broiler for a few minutes to regain crispness, or use a microwave, though the texture may not be as firm. If you prepare ahead and refrigerate, allow them to come to room temperature before broiling to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Browns contains roughly 1340 calories, with 36g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (71% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2311mg per serving (100% 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 Hot Browns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling the muffins with turkey and sauce, then refrigerating them. Just before serving, broil them for 3 to 5 minutes until they're warm and slightly browned. This makes them a great option for entertaining or meal prepping.
What type of bread can I use instead of English muffins?
While English muffins are traditional, you can substitute with toasted bagels, thick slices of sourdough, or even croissants for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure they can hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
Is there a vegetarian version of Hot Browns?
Absolutely! You can replace turkey with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Use a plant-based cheese alternative and a vegetarian gravy or cream sauce to keep the dish flavorful while making it suitable for vegetarians.
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).