The Hot Brown, a legendary sandwich that originated at Louisville’s historic Brown Hotel in the 1920s, has become a beloved classic around the world. This open-faced sandwich typically consists of turkey, bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce served over toasted bread. But why stop there? The Hot Brown is also a versatile recipe that can be adapted into various dishes for every occasion. From comforting casseroles to decadent desserts, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering hot brown recipes to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or seeking inspiration for a special meal, these creative variations are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So, let’s dive in and explore the endless possibilities of this iconic recipe!
Classic Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich
The Hot Brown is a legendary open-faced sandwich originating from Louisville’s iconic Brown Hotel. This decadent creation combines turkey, bacon, tomatoes, and Mornay sauce on toasted bread, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 8 oz. cooked turkey breast
– 6 slices of crispy bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 1 cup Mornay sauce (see note)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toast bread slices until lightly browned.
3. Top each slice with a layer of turkey breast, followed by bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Hot Brown Casserole with Turkey and Bacon
This classic Midwestern comfort dish gets a turkey twist, with crispy bacon adding a smoky depth to the creamy casserole. Perfect for a chilly evening or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 slices of white bread, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add cooked turkey and cook until heated through.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cool slightly.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange toasted bread slices in an even layer. Spoon the turkey mixture over the bread, followed by crumbled bacon.
5. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Hot Brown with Jalapeños and Pepper Jack
This spicy twist on the classic hot brown sandwich combines the creamy richness of pepper jack cheese, the savory flavor of turkey, and the bold heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1/2 cup of sliced cooked turkey breast
– 2-3 sliced jalapeños
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with turkey, pepper jack cheese, and jalapeños.
5. Spread Dijon mustard on the remaining bread slices and place them, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwiches over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Hot Brown Pizza with Creamy Mornay Sauce
Elevate your pizza game with this rich and indulgent Hot Brown Pizza, topped with a decadent Creamy Mornay Sauce. This twist on the classic brown is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and garlic over the butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. While pizza is baking, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Remove pizza from oven and top with Creamy Mornay Sauce.
9. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if desired).
10. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Hot Brown Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this creamy, cheesy twist on a classic comfort food. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Hot Browns (a Louisville specialty) with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, then top with shredded cheese.
5. Drizzle with heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hot Brown Breakfast Skillet with Eggs
Hot Brown Breakfast Skillet with Eggs Recipe
Get ready to start your day off right with this hearty breakfast skillet that combines the flavors of browned sausage, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo), crumbled
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with the sweet potatoes.
5. Add the crumbled sausage, bacon, and shredded cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Hot Brown Pasta Bake with Gruyère Cheese
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying Hot Brown Pasta Bake. This comforting casserole is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cooked bacon and stir until crispy.
4. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, Gruyère cheese, and creamy sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gruyère cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hot Brown Sliders with Mini Brioche Buns
Elevate your slider game with these bite-sized Hot Browns, featuring tender turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy Mornay sauce on toasted mini brioche buns.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup Mornay sauce (see note)
– 12 mini brioche buns
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped scallions, grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Split mini brioche buns in half and toast on a baking sheet for 5 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Assemble sliders by spreading Mornay sauce on the bottom bun, followed by sliced turkey, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Top with top bun half.
5. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt cheese (if using) and warm buns.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Note: Mornay sauce is a béchamel-based sauce flavored with nutmeg, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. You can use store-bought or make your own.
Hot Brown Soup with Crumbled Bacon
Warm up with this comforting Hot Brown Soup featuring crumbled bacon, a perfect blend of rich flavors and textures.
Hot Brown Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa
A twist on the classic Hot Browns sandwich, these quesadillas pack a punch of flavor and comfort. This recipe combines tender turkey, melted cheese, and crispy bacon in a crispy tortilla, served with a creamy avocado salsa for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado salsa (see below for recipe)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each tortilla.
3. Place a tortilla, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Sprinkle half of the turkey, cheese, and bacon onto the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and golden.
7. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until combined. Serve alongside quesadillas for dipping.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for the quesadillas, and an additional 5 minutes for the avocado salsa.
Hot Brown Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent twist on the classic Hot Brown sandwich, stuffed inside a savory mushroom cap.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/4 cup hot brown sauce (or to taste)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked turkey breast (or chicken or ham)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together hot brown sauce, cheddar cheese, and chopped turkey until well combined.
3. Butter each mushroom cap with the softened butter, then spoon the Hot Brown mixture evenly onto the mushrooms.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Deviled Eggs with Crispy Prosciutto
Elevate your deviled egg game with the rich flavors of Hot Browns and crispy prosciutto! This indulgent twist on a classic is perfect for brunch or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Stir in the chives.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Place a slice of prosciutto on top of each deviled egg.
6. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Brown Nachos with Poblano Cheese Sauce
Hot Brown Nachos with Poblano Cheese Sauce Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of the Hot Brown sandwich reimagined as a decadent nacho dish, topped with creamy poblano cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for game day gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup poblano peppers roasted and pureed (see note)
– Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Top with shredded chicken, cream cheese mixture, green onions, and jalapeño pepper.
4. Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle poblano cheese sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: To roast poblano peppers, place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred. Peel off skin, seed, and puree in blender or food processor.
Hot Brown Waffles with Smoked Turkey Gravy
Elevate your waffle game with this innovative recipe that combines crispy, golden-brown waffles with savory smoked turkey gravy. Perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup Smoked Turkey Gravy (recipe below)
Smoked Turkey Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter.
3. Pour batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Serve waffles with Smoked Turkey Gravy drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (waffles) + 2-3 minutes (gravy)
Hot Brown Grilled Cheese with Tomato Jam
Hot Brown Grilled Cheese with Tomato Jam is a creative twist on the classic comfort food. This sweet and savory combination will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, divided
– 2 tablespoons of tomato jam (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 2 slices of turkey breast, cooked and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of cheese, turkey breast, and tomato jam.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
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 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes per sandwich.
Hot Brown Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and satisfying Hot Brown Pot Pie, featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a flaky crust. This classic recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, butter, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in cream and bring to a simmer. Cook until slightly thickened.
4. Roll out flaky crust dough to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill crust with hot brown mixture and top with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hot Brown Dip with Toasted Baguette Slices
This creamy, cheesy dip is a twist on the classic brown bag sandwich. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 ounce) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked turkey
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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 until smooth. Add cheddar cheese, turkey, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Transfer mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
5. While the dip is cooking, toast baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
6. Serve warm dip with toasted baguette slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Brown Tart with Caramelized Onions
This classic Midwestern dish gets a sweet and savory twist with caramelized onions, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch. Flaky puff pastry, rich turkey gravy, and melted cheddar cheese come together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup turkey gravy (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spread caramelized onions on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Sprinkle cheese and turkey gravy evenly over the onions.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 mouth-watering Hot Brown recipes! From classic sandwiches to casseroles, pizzas, and more, this collection has something for every occasion. Try your hand at making a Classic Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich or spice things up with Spicy Hot Brown with Jalapeños and Pepper Jack. Or why not make it a breakfast affair with the Hot Brown Breakfast Skillet? And don’t forget about the fun twists like Hot Brown Quesadillas or Hot Brown Nachos! Whatever your taste, there’s a Hot Brown recipe to satisfy.
