Original Hot Brown
The Original Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich made with toasted bread, roasted turkey breast, creamy Parmesan Mornay sauce, tomato slices, crispy bacon, and a final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before broiling until golden brown. Rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, this classic Kentucky recipe is perfect for family dinners, brunches, or entertaining guests. Ready in about 45 minutes, it's a timeless comfort food that continues to delight generations of food lovers.
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.