Description
A true Southern classic with a summer twist, this Kentucky Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich layered with roasted turkey, heirloom tomatoes, crisp bacon, and smothered in creamy Mornay sauce—then broiled to golden, bubbling perfection. A perfect dish for outdoor brunches, nostalgic gatherings, or any meal that craves comforting flavor with a lighter touch.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices thick-cut white bread (Texas toast or brioche)
- 1½ lbs sliced roasted turkey breast
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- For the Mornay Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warm
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated sharp white cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Preheat oven broiler. Toast bread slices on both sides under broiler until lightly golden. Set aside.
- Make the Mornay Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Slowly add warm milk and cream, whisking constantly. Cook 4–5 minutes until thick. Stir in cheeses until melted. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, and nutmeg if using.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: On each toast slice, layer turkey, tomato slices, and ladle Mornay sauce over the top. Add extra cheese if desired.
- Broil to Finish: Place sandwiches on a baking tray. Broil 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden. Top with bacon and garnish with parsley or chives.
Notes
Pair with cucumber salad, grilled corn, or pickled okra. Drink with sweet iced tea, mint julep, or citrusy white wine. Lighten it up with sourdough bread, half-and-half instead of cream, or turkey bacon. Great for summer brunches or gatherings—assemble ahead and broil just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Sandwich
- Method: Broil
- Cuisine: American (Southern)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
Keywords: Kentucky Hot Brown, southern sandwich, open-faced, turkey, Mornay sauce, summer brunch