11 Incredible Southern Recipes to Make for the Kentucky Derby

5/12 Previous Next

©  from my point of view/Shutterstock.com

Kentucky Hot Browns

The iconic creation of the Kentucky Hot Brown dates back to the 1920s in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. One of the state’s most beloved comfort foods is the protein-packed, open-faced sandwich. Your guests are such to love this Louisville speciality! 

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 4 slices of bread (sourdough, French, or similar)
• 8 slices of cooked turkey breast
• 8 slices of cooked bacon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven's broiler.
2. Toast the slices of bread until golden brown. Set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 min. until the roux is golden brown and fragrant.
4. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 3-5 min.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook, stirring, until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
6. Arrange the toasted bread slices on a baking sheet. Place two slices of cooked turkey and spoon the cheese sauce generously on top, followed by two slices of bacon.
7. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for 2-3 min. or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Remove the hot browns from the oven and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!