Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsBubbaKentucky Hot Brown Recipe

Kentucky Hot Brown Recipe

Inspired by Bubba
Time45m
Serves4

Hickory-smoked turkey, pecan-smoked bacon, tomato and caramelized onion; open-faced on Texas toast and smothered with cheese sauce.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Cheese Sauce

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook Bacon

    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the pecan-smoked bacon until crispy. Remove from skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess fat.

  2. 2

    Prepare Tomatoes

    Slice the medium tomato into thin rounds and set aside.

  3. 3

    Caramelize Onions

    In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.

Assembling the Hot Brown

  1. 4

    Toast Bread

    Toast the Texas toast slices until golden brown.

  2. 5

    Layer Ingredients

    On each slice of toasted Texas toast, layer hickory-smoked turkey, bacon, tomato slices, and caramelized onions.

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 6

    Make Roux

    In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light golden.

  2. 7

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking while whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 8

    Add Cheese

    Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

Final Assembly

  1. 9

    Top with Cheese Sauce

    Pour the cheese sauce generously over the layered ingredients on the toast.

  2. 10

    Broil

    Place the assembled hot browns on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 3-5 minutes or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and golden.

  3. 11

    Serve

    Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot.

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