by The Kentucky Hot Brown is a signature dish from Louisville, created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel by Chef Fred K. Schmidt. Designed as a late-night alternative to ham and eggs for guests attending the hotel’s dinner dances, the Hot Brown features an open-faced sandwich with roasted turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, broiled to a golden finish. It remains a regional favorite, particularly during the Kentucky Derby.
Preparing the Hot Brown for a Derby Party
No Kentucky Derby party is complete without the iconic Kentucky Hot Brown, a rich open-faced sandwich layered with turkey, bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce. For more ideas on hosting Southern-inspired events and recipes, visit Michigan4You’s guide to entertaining.
Ingredients for 12 Servings:
- 12 slices of thick-cut white bread, toasted
- 3 pounds of roasted turkey breast, sliced
- 12 slices of crispy bacon
- 3 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Paprika and chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare Mornay Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of Pecorino Romano cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Place toasted bread slices on a baking sheet. Top each with sliced turkey and a tomato slice. Spoon Mornay sauce over each sandwich, covering the turkey and tomato.
- Broil: Sprinkle remaining cheese over the sandwiches. Place under a broiler until the sauce is bubbly and begins to brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Top each sandwich with a slice of crispy bacon. Garnish with paprika and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Tips for Serving at a Party:
- Preparation: Assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate. Broil just before serving to ensure they are hot and the sauce is bubbly.
- Serving: Use oven-safe platters or individual ramekins for broiling and serving, making cleanup easier and presentation appealing.
- Accompaniments: Pair with traditional Kentucky sides like bourbon-glazed carrots or a simple green salad.
- Beverages: Offer classic Mint Juleps or sweet tea to complement the richness of the Hot Brown.
The Kentucky Hot Brown is more than a sandwich; it’s a piece of culinary history that brings a taste of Louisville to your Derby celebration.
For a visual guide on preparing the Kentucky Hot Brown, you can watch the following video:
Recipe Variations for the Kentucky Hot Brown
While the classic Kentucky Hot Brown holds its place as a Derby tradition, there are plenty of ways to put a creative spin on this rich dish. Here are a few ideas to customize it for different tastes or to add variety to your party spread:
1. Pimento Cheese Hot Brown:
Swap out the Mornay sauce for a smooth, melted pimento cheese spread. This Southern twist adds a bold, tangy kick and pairs well with the roasted turkey.
2. Vegetarian Hot Brown:
Replace the turkey and bacon with layers of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and grilled zucchini. Use vegetable stock in the Mornay sauce to keep it meat-free but still flavorful.
3. Smoked Turkey Hot Brown:
For added depth, use smoked turkey breast instead of traditional roasted turkey. The smokiness complements the creamy sauce and adds extra richness.
4. Country Ham Hot Brown:
Substitute thinly sliced country ham for the turkey. This version leans into the salty, savory notes of classic Southern ham and works well with extra-sharp cheese in the sauce.
5. Mini Hot Brown Sliders:
Make smaller, party-friendly portions using slider buns or baguette slices. These bite-size versions are easier for guests to handle at large gatherings.
6. Breakfast Hot Brown:
Turn the dish into a brunch favorite by adding a fried egg on top of each sandwich before broiling. A touch of hot sauce on the side completes the breakfast feel.
7. Gluten-Free Hot Brown:
Use gluten-free bread and thicken the sauce with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. The result is just as creamy and indulgent without the wheat.
These variations allow you to tailor the Hot Brown to your guests’ preferences or dietary needs while keeping the spirit of the dish alive.
Post Time Thoughts
The Hot Brown is considered one of Kentucky’s iconic foods and a slice of Louisville’s culinary heritage that brings richness and warmth to any gathering. Whether you’re serving it as the centerpiece of your Kentucky Derby party or simply enjoying a taste of Southern tradition at home, this dish delivers hearty comfort and classic flavor. With its layers of roasted turkey, crisp bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce, it’s guaranteed to be a standout on your table. By preparing ahead and trying a few creative variations, you can offer guests a memorable experience that celebrates both food and festivity. So fire up the broiler, pour a Mint Julep, and let the Hot Brown take the spotlight at your next Derby event.
