Kentucky Hot Brown
A rich, creamy American classic featuring tender turkey or chicken topped with crispy bacon, melted cheeses, and a flavorful sauce, perfect for brunch or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart, heavy saucepan, melt the butter.
- Stir in the flour until the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Add Tabasco hot pepper sauce and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Remove the sauce from heat.
- Take out 1/2 cup of the sauce and mix it into the beaten egg yolks.
- Return the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Add the grated Colby cheese and remaining cheeses.
- Remove from heat.
- Toast six slices of bread on both sides.
- Slice each piece in half and place on a heat-resistant plate.
- Layer with cooked chicken or turkey, ham, sauce, tomato slices, and crispy bacon.
- Sprinkle paprika on top.
- Bake at 400°F for 12 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want a lighter version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use low-fat cheese. You can also swap out the Colby cheese for sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. If you don't have ham, try using cooked bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Kentucky Hot Brown with a side of green beans or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole for a comforting feast. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the crispiness of the bacon and the integrity of the sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kentucky Hot Brown contains roughly 509 calories, with 13g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D.
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 a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. Just make sure to layer the dish with the sauce just before baking for the best texture.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
A sturdy bread like Texas toast or sourdough works best for Kentucky Hot Brown, as it holds up well to the sauce and toppings. Avoid using soft white bread, which may become too soggy during baking.
Can I use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey. Just shred or slice the turkey and layer it in the dish as you would with cooked chicken, making it a great way to enjoy a classic dish with a twist.
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).