Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches

Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches are a classic comfort food with a rich history. Originating from the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, this dish is renowned for its decadent layers of turkey, tomato, and Mornay sauce, all topped with crispy bacon. It’s a hearty meal that combines the savory flavors of roasted turkey with the creamy goodness of cheese sauce, making it perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Pinch cayenne pepper
• Pinch white pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sandwiches:

• 4 slices toasted sourdough bread
• 9 oz sliced cooked turkey breast
• 1 beefsteak tomato, sliced and patted dry
• Pinch salt
• 8 slices crispy cooked bacon

Preparation

1. Make the Mornay Sauce:
   • Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a golden color, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and increase the heat to medium. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. For a smoother texture, use a metal stick blender to further emulsify the sauce if needed.
   • Season the sauce with Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, white pepper, and salt. Adjust to taste.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   • Arrange the toasted sourdough slices on a lined baking sheet.
   • Layer each slice with 3-4 slices of turkey and 2 tomato slices. Lightly sprinkle the tomatoes with a pinch of salt.
   • Pour the Mornay sauce generously over each sandwich, ensuring it covers the turkey and tomatoes evenly.
   • Top each sandwich with 2 slices of crispy bacon.
3. Broil the Sandwiches:
   • Preheat your oven to low broil.
   • Place the baking sheet under the broiler and bake for 4-7 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and lightly browned.
4. Serve Hot:
   • Remove from the oven and serve the sandwiches while they are still piping hot.

Bonus Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Conclusion

Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches are a delightful blend of rich, creamy, and savory flavors that are sure to impress at any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them for a special occasion or just a comforting dinner, this recipe brings the taste of Southern hospitality right to your table. The combination of tender turkey, juicy tomatoes, and a bubbling cheese sauce, all topped with crispy bacon, makes this dish a true winner. Enjoy this classic comfort food and savor the taste of Kentucky tradition!