Easy Hot Brown Sandwich You Will Crave For:
Sometimes you can be transported to a state of pure ecstasy with just one bite of the appropriate comfort food. This is precisely what the rich and cheesy American favorite, the hot brown sandwich, does. This meal offers a decadent satisfaction that’s difficult to top because to its layers of flavorful turkey, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese sauce that are all perfectly grilled. Additionally, it’s very simple to make at home, despite its gourmet appearance.
This simple Hot Brown sandwich is just what your taste buds have been craving, whether you’re searching for a comforting dinner on a chilly evening, a crowd-pleasing dish for game night, or a decadent weekend breakfast.
#A Little History: Where Did the Hot Brown Come From?
Let’s take a time to enjoy this dish’s history before getting into the how-to. Originating in Louisville, Kentucky, the Hot Brown sandwich was initially developed at the Brown Hotel in the 1920s. It was created by Fred Schmidt, the hotel’s chef, as a late-night substitute for the standard ham and eggs that hotel visitors were getting sick of.
The Hot Brown, an open-faced sandwich stuffed with turkey, covered in a smooth Mornay sauce, garnished with bacon and tomatoes, and then cooked on a hot plate until it bubbles, was thus created. It soon gained popularity throughout the American South, not only in Louisville, and today has admirers nationwide.
Why You’ll Crave This Sandwich
The Hot Brown sandwich isn’t like the others. On one piece of bread, there is a full-flavored supper. What makes it memorable is this:
• Creamy cheese sauce (Mornay) adds richness and depth.
• Crispy bacon brings smoky crunch.
• Tender roasted turkey keeps it hearty and satisfying.
• Fresh tomatoes cut through the richness with acidity.
• Broiled topping gives it that irresistible golden finish.
Every bite is the perfect combination of creamy, crispy, savory, and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down and savor.
#Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 2)
For the sandwich:
• 2 thick slices of bread (Texas toast, brioche, or sourdough)
• 1 cup cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
• 2 slices of ripe tomato
• 4 strips of crispy bacon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: parsley, paprika, or grated Parmesan for garnish
For the Mornay sauce:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk (warm)
• 1/2 cup grated sharp white cheddar or Gruyère cheese
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
#Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bacon
Make sure your bacon is absolutely crispy by first cooking it. Place aside to drain on paper towels.
2. Make the Mornay Sauce
This cheese sauce is the heart of the Hot Brown.
• Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
• Gradually whisk in the warm milk. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheese.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
The result should be a thick, smooth, and velvety cheese sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
3. Toast the Bread
Toast the bread slices lightly. When you pour the sauce over them, this keeps them from becoming soggy.
4. Assemble the Sandwich
Put each toasted bread slice on a baking sheet or ovenproof dish. Place a substantial amount of turkey on top of each, then slices of tomato. Over the top, pour the warm Mornay sauce until it covers everything. Give generously; that’s what makes this sandwich so delicious!
5. Broil to Finish
For two to four minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and beginning to brown, place the sandwiches under the broiler. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
6. Add Bacon and Garnish
Place two pieces of crispy bacon on top of each sandwich. If desired, garnish with paprika, parsley, or a dash of Parmesan cheese.
#Tips for the Best Hot Brown Experience
• Use freshly roasted turkey if possible, but good-quality deli turkey works in a pinch.
• Don’t skip the broiling step. It’s key to getting that golden, bubbly finish.
• Gruyère or white cheddar are excellent cheese choices for the sauce, but you can mix cheeses if you prefer.
• Make it vegetarian by swapping turkey for sautéed mushrooms and spinach, and omitting the bacon—or using vegetarian bacon.
#Make It a Meal
On its alone, the hot brown sandwich is substantial and satisfying, but if you’re giving it to guests or want to make a whole meal, think about these easy side dishes:
• A crisp, light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
• A cool cucumber or tomato salad to balance the heat and richness
• Iced tea or a light white wine like Chardonnay to sip alongside
#A Southern Favorite That Deserves a Spot on Your Table
The Hot Brown sandwich’s appeal as a comfort food and its harmony of strong flavors are what make it so great. It is decadent without being unduly complex. Despite using common ingredients, it has a gourmet vibe. Best of all, it can be customized in countless ways.
It’s easy to see why this dish has stood the test of time. From its humble hotel origins to becoming a household favorite, the Hot Brown continues to earn fans across generations.
Try this simple dish instead of ordering takeout the next time you’re craving something filling, warm, and rich. It might end up becoming your new favorite spot for Sunday afternoons, weeknight dinners, and brunches.
Final Thoughts
The Hot Brown sandwich demonstrates that there is a certain alchemy involved in properly blending basic components. This meal is perfectly cheesy, toasted, creamy, and crispy.
This simple approach allows you to easily bring restaurant-caliber flavor to your home kitchen, regardless of whether you’ve had this Kentucky staple before or are a newcomer.
So go ahead, indulge a little. You deserve it.
Craving it yet? Try it today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!