If you’re looking for a classic Kentucky dish to serve on Derby Day, try this one from Jon Stiles, GM at The Party Source in Bellevue, Kentucky.

Enjoy!

Amy

Kentucky Hot Browns

Serves 4

Sliced turkey breast (maple-roasted can be a good choice)

1 cup grated cheddar cheese

¼ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

8 thick slices ripe tomato, sautéed until lightly browned

8 slices applewood-smoked bacon, cooked crisp

Cheese sauce (recipe follows)

4 slices of good fresh-baked farm bread

Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

¾ cup grated sharp white cheddar

¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Melt the butter over medium heat in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute or two until the raw flour flavor has cooked away. Whisk in the milk and bring to a boil whisking constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in the cheese until just melted, and season with nutmeg, salt and pepper.

To assemble:

Top each slice of bread with some of the turkey breast. Ladle the sauce over the top and divide the cheddar and Parmigiano-Reggiano over the top of each slice. Place under the broiler and cook until bubbly and the tops are golden brown. Remove from the oven and top each with two slices of tomato, and two pieces of bacon. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.