Name: Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy Delight in 40 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 thick-sliced white bread (Texas toast style); 8 oz oven-roasted turkey breast, sliced; 8 strips crispy bacon, cooked; 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced thin; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (or Swiss); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper; Pinch ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish); Extra Parmesan for sprinkling (optional garnish); Paprika or cayenne (optional garnish)

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Introduction

Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy is a legendary Kentucky comfort food that never fails to impress. This delightful dish features thick-sliced turkey, crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes, all smothered in a rich, bubbly Mornay cheese sauce broiled to golden perfection. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or special occasions, this dish is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the world of cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy

This Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy is not just a sandwich; it’s an experience. Here are some reasons why you will adore it:

Delicious layers of turkey and bacon create a flavor explosion.
The creamy Mornay sauce makes each bite utterly indulgent.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings and family meals.
Quick and easy to prepare, taking only 40 minutes.
Perfectly customizable with various toppings, including fresh herbs.
It embodies the essence of comfort food, warming your heart and soul.
Low calorie, making it a guilt-free indulgence!
This recipe is a classic that pays homage to Kentucky cuisine.

Ingredients for Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy

Gather these items:

4 thick-sliced white bread (Texas toast style)
8 oz oven-roasted turkey breast, sliced
8 strips crispy bacon, cooked
2 Roma tomatoes, sliced thin
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (or Swiss)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper
Pinch ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Extra Parmesan for sprinkling (optional garnish)
Paprika or cayenne (optional garnish)

How to Make Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Set oven rack about 6 inches from broiler.
Step 2: Place bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, turning once, until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Lightly butter both sides of bread slices and toast in oven for 5–7 minutes until golden. Set aside.
Step 4: Make Mornay sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
Step 5: Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly. Cook 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère. Whisk until smooth and melted, about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Worcestershire. Taste and adjust seasoning. Sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 8: Place toasted bread on a baking sheet. Top each with 2 oz sliced turkey and two tomato slices.
Step 9: Pour a generous ladle of Mornay sauce over each sandwich.
Step 10: Lay 2 strips of crispy bacon crisscrossed on top.
Step 11: Broil sandwiches for 2–3 minutes until cheese sauce bubbles and browns in spots. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 12: Garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and paprika or cayenne if desired.
Step 13: Let sandwiches cool for 2 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality turkey for the best flavor.
Don’t rush the broiling step—watch closely for perfection.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to enhance flavor.
Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Creamy potato soup makes a great side!

Best Ways to Serve Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy

Here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

Serve with a side of crispy fries for a hearty meal.
Top with a sprinkle of bacon bits for extra crunch.
Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the sandwich. Cranberry orange pancakes are a delightful option!

How to Store and Reheat Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy

To store, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place sandwiches under the broiler for about 2 minutes, just until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. This makes for a fantastic meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy

What is a Hot Brown Sandwich?

A Hot Brown Sandwich is a classic open-faced sandwich originating from Kentucky, featuring turkey, bacon, tomatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce.

Can I make Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Assemble the sandwich and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. This is a great time-saver!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy?

Ensure your Mornay sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Overcooking the bacon can also lead to a less satisfying texture. Follow instructions closely for best results!

Variations of Hot Brown Sandwich Cheesy You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on this classic:

Use leftover roast chicken instead of turkey for a different flavor.
Try adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch.
Experiment with different cheese blends for unique taste profiles.
For a spicy kick, add jalapeños in the Mornay sauce.