Savory Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole

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Savory Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole – A Low-Carb Southern Classic

Introduction

The Kentucky Hot Brown is a legendary dish with deep roots in Southern cuisine. Originating in the 1920s at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, this open-faced turkey sandwich smothered in a rich, creamy sauce has become a culinary icon. Traditionally, the dish features toast, turkey, tomatoes, crispy bacon, and a decadent Mornay sauce, all baked until golden and bubbling.

For those following a low-carb lifestyle, recreating this classic without the heavy bread and flour-based sauce can be a challenge. That’s where the Savory Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole comes in—delivering all the indulgent flavors of the original, minus the carbs. This recipe is a perfect fusion of rich ingredients, creamy textures, and Southern charm, making it a must-try dish for any keto enthusiast.

What Makes This Casserole Special?

This keto-friendly version of the Hot Brown stays true to its roots while introducing substitutions that keep it low-carb. Here’s what makes this casserole stand out:

  • Bread Alternative: Traditional toast is replaced with keto-friendly almond flour bread or fathead dough, providing the same base without the carbs.
  • Creamy Mornay Sauce: The signature cheese sauce is made keto by using heavy cream, butter, and cheese instead of flour-thickened milk.
  • Savory Proteins: High-quality roasted turkey and crispy bacon bring out the classic flavors.
  • Baked to Perfection: The dish is layered and baked until bubbling and golden brown, making every bite satisfying.

Want to know the history behind the Kentucky Hot Brown? Check out the Brown Hotel’s official page for an authentic backstory.

Ingredients for the Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole

Before diving into the step-by-step process, gather these key ingredients:

For the Bread Base (Optional but Recommended)
  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for texture)
For the Casserole
  • 2 lbs roasted turkey breast (sliced or shredded)
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
  • 1 medium tomato, sliced thinly
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For a deep dive into keto-friendly ingredients and their uses in cooking, check out this comprehensive guide.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Keto Bread Base (Optional)

If you want a sturdy base similar to traditional toast, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, baking powder, eggs, melted butter, and shredded mozzarella.
  3. Spread the batter evenly into the dish and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
  4. Let it cool before slicing into squares.
Step 2: Make the Keto Mornay Sauce

The Mornay sauce is what gives the Hot Brown its signature richness. To make a keto-friendly version:

  1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously.
  3. Slowly add the cheddar and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth.
  4. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Remove from heat once thick and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Now, it’s time to bring everything together:

  1. Grease a large casserole dish.
  2. If using the bread base, layer it on the bottom.
  3. Add an even layer of roasted turkey.
  4. Pour the cheese sauce over the turkey, ensuring even coverage.
  5. Arrange tomato slices on top.
  6. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon.
  7. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the Savory Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole, consider these serving ideas:

  • Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini for added texture.
  • Pair with a light green salad for freshness.
  • Drizzle extra cheese sauce on top for an ultra-rich experience.

Tips for a Perfect Keto Hot Brown Casserole

  • Use High-Quality Turkey: Opt for fresh roasted turkey breast instead of processed deli meat.
  • Crisp the Bacon Separately: This keeps it crunchy instead of soggy.
  • Customize the Cheese Blend: Experiment with Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
  • Let it Rest Before Serving: This helps the flavors meld together.

FAQs About the Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole

1. Can I Use Chicken Instead of Turkey?

Yes! While roasted turkey is traditional, shredded rotisserie chicken makes an excellent substitute.

2. How Do I Prevent the Casserole from Being Watery?

Make sure to pat tomato slices dry before layering them on top.

3. Can This Be Made Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. What Are Some Other Toppings I Can Add?

Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or extra cheese crumbles.

Conclusion

This Savory Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole offers a low-carb twist on a beloved classic. With its rich cheese sauce, smoky bacon, and juicy turkey, it captures all the indulgence of the original dish without the unnecessary carbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this keto-friendly version is sure to become a favorite.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the flavors of Southern comfort food—without breaking your keto diet!

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