These Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are a fun twist on the classic dish! Picture crispy bites of turkey, rich cheese, and a creamy sauce all wrapped in a tasty bite-size treat.
They’re perfect for game day or a cozy night in. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? It’s like having a mini party in your mouth! I love serving these with a side of fresh salad for some crunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or Rustic Bread: I love using a French baguette for its crispy texture. If you’re short on time, any hearty bread works well, like ciabatta or sourdough. Just avoid soft bread – it won’t hold up under the toppings.
Cooked Turkey: Turkey breast is traditional, but leftover chicken or deli meat can easily be used as a substitute. I find that smoked turkey adds a nice flavor twist!
Bacon: Crispiness is key! You can swap in turkey bacon or even leave it out for a vegetarian twist. For a big flavor burst, consider adding pancetta instead.
Cheese: I prefer a cheddar cheese for that classic taste. If you want a bolder flavor, try a sharp provolone or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan. For those avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the calories!
Mornay Sauce: This creamy sauce makes all the difference. If you’re pressed for time, use a store-bought cheese sauce instead. But homemade is always the best, and it’s easier than it sounds!
How Do I Make Sure My Mornay Sauce is Smooth?
The Mornay sauce can be tricky because nobody wants lumpy cheese sauce! The key is to whisk constantly while adding the warm milk. Here are some steps to avoid lumps:
- Start with your roux: Melt the butter and whisk in the flour until it’s blended and golden.
- Heat your milk before adding it. Warm milk mixes better and reduces lumps.
- Pour in the milk gradually, whisking constantly. This helps keep everything smooth.
- Cook until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but don’t let it boil!
Remember, a little patience goes a long way! If you do get lumps, you can always blend the sauce.
How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Bites:
- 1 French baguette or rustic bread, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for toasting bread)
- 8 ounces cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese or a sharp white cheese blend
- ½ cup creamy Mornay sauce (see below)
- Fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- For the Mornay Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups whole milk, warmed
- ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 25 minutes total! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and make the sauce, followed by 10 minutes for toasting the bread and assembling the bites, and then another 5-7 minutes for baking in the oven. It’s quick enough for a snack or an appetizer for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the bread slices and place them on a baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes, remembering to flip halfway through so that both sides get that lovely golden color. Once toasted, remove from oven and set aside.
2. Make the Mornay Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a pale golden color. Gradually pour in the warmed milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, around 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat, stir in the Gruyère cheese until it melts, and season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you like. Keep the sauce warm while you assemble your bites!
3. Assemble the Bites:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Take a slice of your toasted bread and layer on some of the turkey breast. Top it with a generous spoonful of the warm Mornay sauce, followed by a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese. Finally, add some of the chopped crispy bacon on top of each bite. They’re already looking delicious!
4. Bake the Bites:
Carefully place the assembled bites back on the baking sheet and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma is going to be amazing!
5. Finish and Serve:
Once done, take them out of the oven, and garnish with freshly chopped chives for that pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top if you like a little spice. Serve these Kentucky Hot Brown Bites warm, and watch them disappear!
Enjoy your Kentucky Hot Brown Bites as a perfect party appetizer or a savory snack!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this recipe. Just ensure it’s shredded or cut into small pieces for easy topping on the bread. It’s a great way to utilize holiday leftovers!
Can I Make the Mornay Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the Mornay sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens up too much.
How Do I Store Leftover Bites?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can substitute the turkey with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. For the bacon, use crispy tempeh or omit it altogether. Just make sure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly!
