Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches
A comforting Southern classic, the Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich features toasted bread layered with turkey, ham, and topped with a creamy white sauce, melted cheese, fresh tomato slices, and crispy bacon. Perfect for brunch or hearty lunch, it combines rich flavors and savory textures in a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a pan over low heat.
- Add flour, stirring until smooth.
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add milk and bouillon cubes.
- Cover and cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.
- Set aside the sauce.
- Place toasted bread slices in a buttered 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Top each slice with turkey and ham slices.
- Spoon the white sauce over the meat.
- Layer cheese slices, tomato slices, and crumbled bacon over the sauce.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the white sauce. If you're out of chicken bouillon cubes, chicken broth can be used instead for added depth. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Swiss or Gruyère for a different taste. Adjust the toppings according to your preference, perhaps adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious sandwiches with a fresh green salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with a side of coleslaw or pickles, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For a hearty brunch, consider serving alongside a fruit salad or the Yum Yum Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This will help maintain the crispiness of the bread and the integrity of the toppings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches contains roughly 679 calories, with 23g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 758mg per serving (33% 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 use different types of meat for this sandwich?
Absolutely! You can customize the meats in this sandwich according to your preference. Some people enjoy using roast beef or even a vegetarian option like grilled vegetables or mushrooms for a meat-free version. Just ensure the flavors complement the white sauce.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread and flour. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels, especially for pre-packaged items like bouillon cubes.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the white sauce in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to assemble the sandwiches, reheat the sauce gently on the stove before using it on the sandwiches to ensure it's smooth and creamy.
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).