Are you looking for a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling like royalty? Look no further than the Hot Brown. This decadent recipe has been a staple in Kentucky cuisine since the early 20th century, and its rich flavors and textures are sure to win over even the most discerning palates.
The traditional Hot Brown is a classic for a reason – it’s a delicious combination of turkey, bacon, Mornay sauce, and melted cheddar cheese served on toasted bread. But why stop at just one way to enjoy this indulgent dish? We’ve gathered 18 creative takes on the classic Hot Brown recipe that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from traditional twists on the original recipe to innovative uses for the Hot Brown in new and unexpected dishes. Whether you’re a fan of comfort food or just looking for some inspiration for your next dinner party, these 18 classic hot brown recipes are sure to delight.
Traditional Kentucky Hot Brown
The Kentucky Hot Brown is a classic open-faced sandwich that originated at Louisville’s Brown Hotel in the 1920s. This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce on toasted bread, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 1/2 cup Mornay sauce (see below)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Mornay Sauce:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toast bread slices for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble sandwiches by spreading Mornay sauce on toasted bread, topping with turkey, bacon, tomato, and cheese.
4. Place under broiler for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hot Brown Casserole with Turkey and Bacon
This classic casserole recipe gets a savory twist with the addition of turkey and crispy bacon, perfect for a comforting meal or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the diced turkey, crumbled bacon, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheese, milk, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the cooked turkey mixture, then the cheese sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hot Brown Sandwich with Gruyère Cheese
This indulgent sandwich originated at the historic Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, and has since become a beloved comfort food classic. The combination of tender turkey, crispy bacon, creamy Mornay sauce, and melted Gruyère cheese on toasted bread is sure to satisfy any appetite.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 4 oz of cooked turkey breast
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 1 cup of Mornay sauce (see note)
– 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in a baking dish.
4. Top with turkey breast, bacon, Mornay sauce, and Gruyère cheese.
5. Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side up.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Note: To make Mornay sauce, combine 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup of milk in a saucepan. Whisk until smooth, then cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens.
Spicy Hot Brown with Jalapeños
A twist on the classic Hot Brown sandwich, this recipe adds a spicy kick from jalapeños and cheddar cheese. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 cup of turkey breast, sliced
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2-3 jalapeños, sliced
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place a slice of bread, butter-side down, in a baking dish.
4. Add a few slices of turkey breast on top of the bread.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and sliced jalapeños over the turkey.
6. Dot the top with heavy cream.
7. Top with another bread slice, butter-side up.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Pizza with Béchamel Sauce
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and creamy pizza, featuring a velvety béchamel sauce and a medley of savory ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups mixed cheese (Cheddar, Parmesan, and Mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup béchamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked ham
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread béchamel sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Top with mixed cheese, chopped ham, caramelized onions, and diced bell peppers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory stuffed peppers that combine the flavors of hot browns with the convenience of a pepper. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a tasty appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken, cheese, onion, parsley, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the mixture.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with Worcestershire sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hot Brown Pasta Bake
A comforting and creamy pasta bake that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the flavors of browned butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese with al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated mozzarella cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, browned butter mixture, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated mozzarella cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Hot Brown Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls
Elevate your slider game with this twist on the classic Hot Browns dish, featuring crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tangy tomato sauce all nestled within a soft Hawaiian Roll.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 Hawaiian Rolls
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the bacon slices until crispy, then chop into small pieces.
3. In a separate pan, combine cream of mushroom soup, half-and-half or heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth, then add chopped bacon and cook until heated through.
4. Slice the Hawaiian Rolls in half lengthwise.
5. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the hot sauce mixture onto each roll half, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Place the sliders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Breakfast Skillet
Start your day with a hearty breakfast skillet that combines the richness of browned butter and crispy bacon with the comfort of scrambled eggs, potatoes, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with a spatula until they’re cooked through.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the eggs and add the cooked bacon back into the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Dip with Toasted Bread
Hot Brown Dip with Toasted Bread: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
This comforting dip combines the flavors of hot browns with toasted bread for a perfect snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Bake bread for 5-7 minutes or until toasted.
5. Serve warm dip with toasted bread pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Quesadillas with Pico de Gallo
Get ready to elevate your quesadilla game with this creative take on the classic Hot Brown sandwich. By adding juicy turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce to your quesadilla, you’ll experience a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup Mornay sauce (see below for recipe)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pico de Gallo (recipe below)
Mornay Sauce:
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Pico de Gallo:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet, then sprinkle one-quarter of the turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
6. Serve hot with Pico de Gallo on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your snack game with these decadent Hot Brown Stuffed Mushrooms, packed with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and savory beef broth.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stemmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked bacon, cheddar cheese, and beef broth.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bacon-cheddar mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Dot the top of each stuffed mushroom with butter.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Grilled Cheese
This indulgent twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich combines the creaminess of browned butter and melted cheddar with the savory flavors of turkey, bacon, and tomato. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 slices of cooked turkey breast
– 2 slices of crispy bacon
– 1 medium tomato, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the griddle.
4. Top with a slice of turkey, a few pieces of bacon, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
5. Add a tomato slice and top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Hot Brown Waffles with Mornay Sauce
Elevate your brunch game with these decadent Hot Brown Waffles, smothered in a rich and creamy Mornay sauce. This indulgent treat combines the comfort of brown waffles with the sophistication of French-inspired cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Mornay sauce (see below)
– Optional toppings: chopped herbs, crispy bacon, or grated cheddar cheese
Mornay Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère and Cheddar cheese (combined)
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
3. Cook waffles according to iron’s instructions (typically 3-5 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, prepare Mornay sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve waffles with warm Mornay sauce spooned on top. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for waffles and sauce).
Hot Brown Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs game with this spicy and savory twist! These Hot Brown Deviled Eggs are the perfect addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper to the bowl with the yolks.
4. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Hot Brown Soup with Croutons
This rich and creamy soup is a twist on the classic Hot Browns dish, featuring toasted bread, crispy croutons, and a velvety-smooth broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups bread cubes (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toast bread cubes in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
7. Ladle hot soup into bowls and top with croutons. If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hot Brown Nachos with Cheese Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this creative take on traditional nachos. Our Hot Brown Nachos with Cheese Sauce combines the comfort of browned turkey and gravy with the crunch of tortilla chips and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tortilla chips
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded turkey
– 1/4 cup brown gravy
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon cooked turkey and brown gravy over the chips, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Brown Flatbread with Arugula
Experience the classic flavors of a Hot Brown sandwich on a crispy flatbread, topped with peppery arugula for added freshness. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread
– 4 slices of turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of beef broth
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh arugula
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Butter one side of each flatbread slice.
3. Place two slices of turkey breast on each flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Pour beef broth over the turkey, followed by grated cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and top with chopped arugula. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with these 18 classic hot brown recipes! From traditional Kentucky hot browns to creative twists like spicy hot browns and hot brown waffles, there’s something for everyone. Discover how you can elevate this comforting dish with turkey and bacon, Gruyère cheese, jalapeños, bechamel sauce, and more. Whether you’re a fan of sandwiches, casseroles, or even breakfast skillets, these recipes will take your hot brown game to the next level.
