Hot Brown Tacos
Louisville's legendary Hot Brown sandwich reimagined as a taco. Sliced roasted turkey is blanketed in rich Mornay sauce, topped with crispy bacon and fresh tomato. Created at The Brown Hotel in 1926, this Kentucky classic is pure comfort food elegance.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon strips until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels. When cool, break or chop into pieces.
Start the Mornay sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux. Don't let it brown.
Add the milk: Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and Pecorino until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.
Warm the turkey: In a skillet over medium-low heat, gently warm the sliced turkey. You can also warm it in the microwave. The turkey should be hot but not dried out.
Warm the tortillas: Heat flour tortillas on a dry comal or skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side. Keep warm wrapped in a towel.
Assemble the tacos: Place sliced turkey on each warm tortilla. Spoon generous amounts of Mornay sauce over the turkey. Add bacon pieces and a tomato slice.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a light dusting of paprika. Serve immediately while the Mornay sauce is still warm and creamy.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- The Brown Hotel recipe: The original Hot Brown was created by chef Fred Schmidt at Louisville's Brown Hotel in 1926 to feed late-night guests after dances.
- Real Mornay matters: Don't substitute canned cheese sauce. The real Mornay with Parmesan and Pecorino is what makes the Hot Brown special.
- Use quality turkey: Roasted turkey breast from the deli counter works great. For extra authenticity, roast your own turkey breast.
- Broil for authenticity: For a more traditional presentation, assemble open-faced on tortillas, broil until the sauce is bubbly and golden, then fold.
- Visit The Brown Hotel: If you're ever in Louisville, visit The Brown Hotel to try the original. They've been serving it continuously since 1926.
- Derby Day special: Hot Browns are a Kentucky Derby tradition. Serve these tacos for your Derby party!