These Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are mini sandwiches loaded with turkey, creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Every bite is warm and cheesy—who can resist? I love serving these with a side of crispy veggies for a fun twist. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast! 🥪✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
French Baguette: This is the base of your bites, giving them a crispy texture. If you can’t find a baguette, any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough will work well.
Turkey: Cooked turkey breast adds heartiness. You can use leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even a vegetarian substitute like mushrooms or creamy artichoke hearts for a fun twist.
Bacon: Bacon adds great flavor and crunch. For a healthier option, use turkey bacon or crisped pancetta. You can skip it entirely for a vegetarian version!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives a rich taste to the sauce. If you don’t have parmesan, try pecorino or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor.
Milk: Whole milk makes a rich sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, 2% or even unsweetened almond milk can substitute here—just use a thickening agent like cornstarch if needed.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth, creamy sauce is key for these bites. Here’s how to avoid lumps:
- Start with a roux: Cook the flour in butter for 1 minute. This helps to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Gradually add warm milk: This is crucial. Cold milk will shock the roux and create lumps, so always warm it up beforehand.
- Whisk continuously: Stir the mixture while it heats to keep everything combined. This way, you get a smooth consistency.
- Cook until thick: It takes about 5 minutes for the sauce to get thick and creamy, so be patient!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious sauce for your Kentucky Hot Brown Bites. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1-inch rounds
- 8 oz cooked turkey breast, finely chopped
- 6 slices bacon
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 35 minutes. It’s a quick recipe that delivers a big flavor punch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baguette:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, arrange your baguette slices on a baking sheet. Toast these in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, until they are lightly golden and crisp. This will be the base for your bites.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Next, grab a skillet and cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they’re nice and crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Once it’s cool, crumble or break it into smaller pieces.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. After it’s melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute. This creates a roux, which helps thicken your sauce. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until there are no lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is thick and creamy.
4. Season the Sauce:
Add in the shredded Parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Now, fold in the finely chopped turkey until it is well coated with the creamy goodness.
5. Assemble the Bites:
Take the toasted baguette slices and spoon the turkey and cheese mixture generously over each one. Top each bite with a piece of crispy bacon for that extra crunch, adding flavor and texture.
6. Bake and Garnish:
Return the baking sheet with your assembled bites to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the edges of the bread are starting to crisp up. Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious Kentucky Hot Brown Bites immediately while they’re hot and gooey. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you want a tasty treat!
Enjoy your cooking experience, and see how these bites become a favorite around your table!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread for the Bites?
Absolutely! While a French baguette gives a nice crunch, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough. Just ensure it can hold up to the toppings.
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and assemble the bites in advance. Just store them in the fridge, then bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. They may need an extra minute or two in the oven if chilled.
What Should I Do with Leftover Sauce?
If you have extra sauce, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Heat it gently on the stove before serving, and consider adding a splash of milk to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a bit more heat, try increasing the cayenne pepper or adding a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. For an extra kick, you can also top the bites with jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper before baking!