Decadent Hot Brown Sandwich Casserole
A delightful twist on the classic Hot Brown, originally created at the Brown Hotel, this Decadent Hot Brown Sandwich Casserole brings the beloved flavors of turkey, bacon, and creamy cheese sauce to a convenient casserole format. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, this dish features layers of toasted bread, succulent turkey, and a rich, homemade cheese sauce, all topped with crispy bacon and fresh tomatoes. Serve it hot straight from the oven for a comfort food experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1 cup (melted)
flour
3/4 cup (all-purpose)
eggs
2 (beaten)
milk
6 cups (whole or 2% milk)
parmesan cheese
1 cup (grated)
heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup (none)
white bread
16 slices (crusts trimmed)
cooked turkey
16 slices (roasted or sliced turkey)
paprika
to taste (sprinkled)
bacon
1 lb (cooked and chopped into bits)
tomatoes
1 cup (seeded and diced)
parsley
1/4 cup (chopped fresh)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Decadent Hot Brown Sandwich Casserole?
It is a casserole-style adaptation of the classic Louisville Hot Brown sandwich, featuring layers of bread, turkey, and a rich cheese sauce topped with bacon and tomatoes.
Where did the Hot Brown sandwich originate?
The original Hot Brown was created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, as a late-night snack for hungry guests.
What makes this version a casserole?
Instead of individual open-faced sandwiches, this recipe uses multiple slices of bread and turkey layered in a baking dish, smothered in sauce and baked together for easy serving.
Can I use deli turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use thick-sliced deli turkey, though roasted or leftover holiday turkey provides a more traditional and succulent texture.
What kind of cheese is used in the sauce?
This recipe uses a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese to create a savory and creamy Mornay-style sauce.
How do I prevent the bread from getting too soggy?
Lightly toasting the bread before assembling the casserole helps it maintain its structure under the heavy cheese sauce.
Why are the bread crusts trimmed?
Trimming the crusts allows the bread slices to fit perfectly in the casserole dish and ensures a soft, uniform bite throughout the dish.
What is the purpose of adding eggs to the milk sauce?
The beaten eggs act as a binder and thickener, giving the cheese sauce a richer, custard-like consistency when baked.
Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream?
While heavy cream provides the most decadent result, you can use half-and-half if you prefer a slightly lighter sauce.
How much bacon is needed for this casserole?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of bacon, cooked and chopped into bits, to provide a salty and smoky crunch in every serving.
What is the best way to prepare the tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be seeded and diced to prevent excess liquid from watering down the creamy sauce during the baking process.
Can I use a different type of bread?
While white bread is traditional, you can use sourdough or Texas toast for a more robust flavor and sturdier base.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! The casserole format makes it easy to transport and serves a large group, making it a popular choice for gatherings.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the bacon in advance, but it is best to assemble and bake the casserole just before serving.
How do I store leftover casserole?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat portions in the oven at 350 degrees F until hot to help maintain the texture of the bread and sauce.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, cooked sliced chicken breast is an excellent substitute for turkey in this casserole.
Why is paprika sprinkled on top?
Paprika adds a beautiful touch of color and a very subtle smoky flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free bread and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the sauce to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
With 16 slices of bread and turkey, this recipe typically serves between 8 and 10 people.
What side dishes pair well with a Hot Brown casserole?
A crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or a light fruit salad helps balance the richness of this heavy comfort food.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
While not traditional, sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli can be layered with the turkey for added nutrition and flavor.
What kind of milk should I use for the sauce?
Whole milk or 2% milk is recommended to ensure the sauce has the proper creamy consistency.
How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
The casserole is done when the sauce is bubbling and the top is lightly golden brown.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred as it melts more smoothly into the sauce, but high-quality pre-shredded cheese will also work.
Is the parsley just for garnish?
The fresh parsley provides a bright, herbal contrast that cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese.
How thick should the cheese sauce be?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon before you pour it over the turkey and bread layers.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
This specific recipe is designed for the oven to achieve a toasted texture; a slow cooker would likely result in a very soggy dish.
Should the bacon be very crispy?
Yes, cooking the bacon until it is very crispy ensures it provides a good textural contrast to the soft layers of the casserole.
Can I add spice to the sauce?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture is a great way to add a bit of heat to the dish.