By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
🇺🇸AI-generated imageSame ingredients, elsewhere in the world
2 matchesDishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as The Iconic Kentucky Hot Brown. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Ultimate British Cauliflower CheeseIn the United Kingdom · same ingredients· Same technique59%
Croque Monsieur: The Ultimate French Grilled Cheese SandwichIn France · same ingredients50%
An iconic open-faced sandwich from Kentucky, the Hot Brown features slices of roasted turkey and crispy bacon atop Texas toast, all smothered in a rich Mornay sauce and baked until bubbly and golden. It's a decadent and satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to The Iconic Kentucky Hot Brown from another cuisine is Ultimate British Cauliflower Cheese (United Kingdom): the two share 59% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Preheat broiler. Prepare a Mornay sauce: Melt 60 g butter in a saucepan, whisk in 60 g flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 600 ml milk, bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir in 120 g grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese, the pinch of nutmeg, 3 g salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Keep warm.
- 2
Fry the 12 slices of bacon in a skillet until crisp, then drain on paper towels. Toast 8 slices of thick bread (Texas toast style). Place 2 slices on each of 4 oven-safe plates.
- 3
Arrange 4-6 slices of cooked turkey over each piece of toast.
- 4
Ladle a generous amount of Mornay sauce over the turkey and toast. Top with 2 slices of tomato on each plate and sprinkle the remaining 60 g cheese over the plates.
- 5
Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish each plate with 3 cooked bacon strips before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Kentucky Hot Brown?
The Kentucky Hot Brown is an open-faced sandwich originating from Louisville, Kentucky. It consists of turkey and bacon served over bread, covered in a Mornay sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese, and topped with tomato. It is typically served as a hot lunch or dinner.
What type of turkey meat is best for an authentic Kentucky Hot Brown?
For the most authentic experience, use freshly roasted or good quality leftover turkey breast, sliced thickly. While deli turkey can be used in a pinch, it won't offer the same rich flavor and texture.
What kind of cheese should I use for the Mornay sauce in a Kentucky Hot Brown?
This recipe makes the Mornay with grated Gruyère or Parmesan for a rich, nutty and savory flavor; part of the cheese is stirred into the sauce and the rest is sprinkled on top before broiling. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses for the best melt and smoothness.
Should the bread be toasted before assembling a Kentucky Hot Brown, and what type is best?
Yes, lightly toast thick slices of white bread or Texas toast before assembling to provide a sturdy base and prevent it from becoming soggy under the rich sauce. This helps maintain the dish's structure.
How long should I broil The Iconic Kentucky Hot Brown?
Place the assembled plates under a preheated broiler for 3-5 minutes, until the Mornay sauce is bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning the cheese.
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