The Original Hot Brown is one of America’s most iconic open-faced sandwiches, celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Featuring layers of roasted turkey on thick slices of toasted bread, smothered in a creamy Parmesan Mornay sauce, topped with crispy bacon and juicy tomato slices, then broiled until golden and bubbly, this legendary dish has remained a favorite for nearly a century.Perfect for lunch, dinner, or special weekend brunches, the Hot Brown is much more than an ordinary sandwich.
Original Hot Brown:
Every bite combines tender turkey, buttery toast, smoky bacon, fresh tomatoes, and velvety cheese sauce into an unforgettable comfort meal. It’s hearty enough to serve as a complete main course while still maintaining the elegance that made it famous.Whether you’re recreating the original recipe at home or introducing your family to a classic Southern favorite, this authentic Hot Brown delivers restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients. Rich, satisfying, and beautifully browned, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
History:
The Original Hot Brown was created in 1926 at the historic Brown Hotel by chef Fred K. Schmidt. During late-night dances at the hotel, guests wanted something more substantial than traditional ham-and-egg breakfasts. Chef Schmidt developed this open-faced turkey sandwich topped with creamy Mornay sauce, tomatoes, bacon, and Parmesan cheese before finishing it under the broiler. The dish quickly became the hotel’s signature specialty and remains one of Kentucky’s most beloved culinary traditions today.
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Original Hot Brown
Ingredients
For the Sandwich
- 8 slices roasted turkey breast
- 4 thick slices Texas toast or white bread
- 8 slices cooked crispy bacon
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
For the Mornay Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler and toast the bread until lightly golden.
- Arrange the toasted bread on an oven-safe baking dish.
- Layer generous slices of roasted turkey over each piece of toast.
- Prepare the Mornay sauce by melting butter in a saucepan. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until smooth. Cook until thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese melts completely.
- Pour the warm Mornay sauce generously over each turkey sandwich.
- Top each sandwich with tomato slices and two strips of crispy bacon.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
- Broil for 3–5 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and lightly browned. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Freshly roasted turkey provides the best flavor.
- Whole milk and cream create a rich, authentic sauce.
- Broil carefully to prevent burning.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly.
- Thick-cut bread supports the rich toppings.
- Use ripe tomatoes for sweetness.
- Prepare the sauce just before assembling.
- Serve immediately while hot and bubbly.
Tips for Hot Brown:
- Toast the bread well to keep it from becoming soggy.
- Whisk the sauce constantly for a silky texture.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch.
- Warm the turkey before assembling.
- Broil on the upper oven rack for even browning.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for color.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus.
FAQs for Hot Brown:
1. What makes a Hot Brown different from a regular turkey sandwich?
It is served open-faced and topped with a rich Parmesan Mornay sauce before being broiled.
2. Can I use leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
Yes! Leftover roasted turkey is an excellent choice.
3. What is Mornay sauce?
Mornay is a classic French cheese sauce made from béchamel with added cheese, typically Parmesan or Gruyère.
4. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
You can make the sauce ahead, but assemble and broil just before serving.
5. What bread works best?
Texas toast, thick white bread, or country-style bread are ideal.
6. Can I substitute chicken for turkey?
Yes, roasted chicken works very well.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
8. Is this the original Brown Hotel recipe?
This recipe closely follows the traditional style and ingredients that made the Original Hot Brown famous, while using measurements suitable for home kitchens.
Conclusion:
The Original Hot Brown is a true American classic that combines roasted turkey, creamy Parmesan Mornay sauce, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and toasted bread into one unforgettable dish. Rich, comforting, and full of history, this Kentucky favorite is perfect for family meals, holiday leftovers, or special brunches. Once you taste its creamy, savory goodness, it’s easy to understand why the Hot Brown has remained a beloved comfort food for generations.