Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are tasty little treats with cream, turkey, and tomatoes baked to golden perfection. They’ve got that cozy flavor everyone loves!
These bites are perfect for parties or a fun snack at home. My family can’t resist them, and I can’t help but sneak a few extra when no one is watching! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick-cut bread, like Texas toast or brioche, gives a sturdy base. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free bread. For fun, you can also experiment with sourdough or ciabatta!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds crunch and flavor. Turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon substitute can work well for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Turkey: Leftover cooked turkey is perfect here! If you’re out, rotisserie chicken is a great alternative. Or, you could use deli turkey for convenience.
Cheese: I prefer white cheddar or mozzarella, but feel free to mix it up! Gouda or Monterey Jack can also add a nice touch.
Mornay Sauce: This creamy sauce is key. If you want to skip it, store-bought cheese sauce can work in a pinch. Just melt it and pour on for a quicker version!
How Do I Make a Creamy Mornay Sauce?
Making Mornay sauce seems tricky, but it’s straightforward! It’s key to the bites, so here’s how to nail it.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste, being careful not to let it brown.
- Slowly whisk in whole milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Finally, take off the heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for heat if you like!
This sauce adds a creamy richness to your bites that is simply irresistible! Just take your time, and don’t rush the thickening process. With practice, you’ll have it down!
Delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bite Base:
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (Texas toast or brioche) cut into 2-inch rounds
Main Filling:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
- 1 cup cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese or mozzarella
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For Buttering and Baking:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
For Mornay Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish, including baking time. It’s a perfect quick and delightful dish for gatherings or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter or oil a muffin tin to prevent sticking. Take each bread round and press it into the cups of the muffin tin to create little basket shapes.
2. Bake the Bread Rounds:
Brush the tops of the bread rounds with the melted butter for extra flavor. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy.
3. Whip Up the Mornay Sauce:
While the bread is baking, let’s make the Mornay sauce! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking it for 1-2 minutes without letting it brown. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously, and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Finish the Mornay Sauce:
After thickening, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season your sauce with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a hint of spice. Keep the sauce warm.
5. Assemble the Bites:
Take the baked bread rounds out of the oven. Start by filling each round with some turkey, followed by a drizzle of the Mornay sauce. Then, place a crispy slice of bacon on top for added crunch and finish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Bake Again:
Return the muffin tin to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma is going to be heavenly!
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once baked, take them out and top each bite with fresh cherry tomato halves for a pop of color and freshness. If you want to impress, serve with a bit more Mornay sauce drizzled on the plate beneath the bites.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh chives over the bites for a beautiful finishing touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
These Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are sure to impress with their rich flavors and delightful presentation. Dive in and enjoy every crispy, creamy, savory bite! 🥳
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While thick-cut bread like Texas toast or brioche is ideal, you can use sourdough, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread to suit your dietary needs. Just ensure it holds up to the filling!
How Do I Store Leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you want to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make the Mornay Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Mornay sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop before using it in your bites. Just add a splash of milk if it thickens too much while chilling.
Can I Add Other Toppings or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix things up by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even different types of cheese. You could also substitute the turkey with shredded chicken for a different flavor profile.
