Homemade Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole Recipe
*Serves 6-8*
A comforting twist on the classic Kentucky Hot Brown, layered with toasted bread, tender turkey, crispy bacon, and a rich Mornay sauce, baked to golden perfection.
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| Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole, easy Southern casserole recipe |
Ingredients:
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 6 cups cubed bread (French or sourdough, day-old/stale preferred)
- 2 cups cooked turkey (diced or shredded; chicken works too)
- 1 large tomato (diced, or 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk*
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepperbto taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)
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| Mornay sauce recipe, comfort food dinner |
Instructions:
1. Prep the Bacon & Bread:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Crumble, reserving 2 tbsp for garnish.
- Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
2. Make the Mornay Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in ¾ cup Parmesan, cheddar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until melted.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer toasted bread, turkey, ¾ of the bacon, and tomatoes.
- Pour Mornay sauce evenly over the layers. Top with remaining Parmesan and bacon.
4. Bake & Serve:
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
- Optional: Broil 1-2 minutes for a crispy top.
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and extra tomatoes.
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| Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich twist |
Tips:
- Bread: Stale bread absorbs sauce better. For a lighter texture, use croissants.
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère or Pecorino Romano for a twist.
- Vegetarian Option:Omit bacon, add sautéed mushrooms.
Enjoy this hearty, cheesy casserole that brings the flavors of Kentucky right to your table! 🧀🥓🍅
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