These Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are mini sandwiches packed with turkey, bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce. They’re warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Making these bites is a blast! I love popping them in the oven and watching them turn golden brown. They’re perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Thick-Cut Bread: For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Texas toast or brioche. You can substitute with crusty bread or even gluten-free bread if needed.
Turkey Breast: While traditional Hot Browns use turkey, leftover chicken works well too! If you’re vegetarian, try using sautéed mushrooms or a mix of roasted veggies.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds crunch and flavor. You can use turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian version. I personally love the smoky flavor of bacon, but it’s optional!
Cheddar & Mozzarella: White cheddar gives a sharp flavor, while mozzarella offers creaminess. If you want a different taste, feel free to use Pepper Jack for some heat or a blend of cheeses!
How Do You Make a Perfect Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce is key to these bites. Start by making a roux—a mix of butter and flour which thickens the sauce. Here’s how to do it:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook it for about 1 minute until it’s bubbly.
- Slowly whisk in whole milk until the sauce thickens, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add in Dijon mustard, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. It’s important to taste and adjust!
- Finally, mix in the grated cheeses until melted and smooth. This will make your bites creamy and delicious!
Enjoy these tips for a tasty batch of Kentucky Hot Brown Bites!
Kentucky Hot Brown Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (such as Texas toast or brioche)
- 8 oz cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
- 1 cup grated white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Cherry tomato halves
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect quick meal or party appetizer. In just under an hour, you’ll have these delightful bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Muffin Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a mini muffin pan or line it with silicone liners to ensure easy removal of your bites once baked.
2. Making the Bread Cups:
Next, cut the bread slices into rounds using a large cookie cutter or a drinking glass, aiming for about 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter. Now, press each round into the bottom and up the sides of the mini muffin cups to create little bread bowls. They should fit snugly!
3. Baking the Bread Cups:
Pop your muffin pan into the preheated oven and bake the bread cups for 10 minutes. You want them to be slightly toasted and able to hold their shape. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and set aside to cool a bit.
4. Preparing the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly—this is your roux! Then, gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), and season to taste with salt and black pepper.
5. Adding Cheese:
Once your sauce is ready, remove it from heat and mix in the grated white cheddar and half of the mozzarella cheese until everything is melted and smooth. This will be the delicious creamy filling for your bites!
6. Assembling the Bites:
Time to get assembling! Place an even layer of turkey in each bread cup, then generously spoon the cheese sauce over the turkey filling them well. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, and finish off with a sprinkle of chopped bacon and a cherry tomato half on each bite.
7. Final Baking:
Put the muffin pan back in the oven and bake the bites for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The aroma will be fantastic!
8. Serving:
When they’re done, take them out of the oven, garnish with some fresh parsley, and serve warm. Your Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are now ready to enjoy!
Dig in and savor every bite of these delicious miniatures that capture the classic flavors of the traditional Hot Brown sandwich!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While Texas toast or brioche work best for their thickness and texture, you can use other types of bread like sourdough or even gluten-free options for a different spin. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling.
What Can I Substitute for Turkey?
If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken works great too! For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or a mix of roasted vegetables to recreate that hearty flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. They’ll still be tasty!
Can I Make the Cheese Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time! Just allow it to cool and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to use it, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
