Kentucky Derby Hot Brown (Printer Friendly)

Savory flatbread topped with turkey, bacon, tomatoes, and melted cheese with a rich creamy sauce.

# What You Need:

→ Flatbread & Mornay Sauce

01 - 2 large flatbreads (naan or pre-baked pizza crusts)
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 1 cup whole milk
05 - 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - Pinch of ground nutmeg

→ Toppings

09 - 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded
10 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
11 - 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
12 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
13 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
15 - 2 to 3 thin tomato slices, optional for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Remove from heat. Stir in Pecorino Romano, white pepper, salt, and nutmeg until smooth. Set aside.
04 - Place flatbreads on prepared baking sheet. Spread each with a generous layer of Mornay sauce.
05 - Top evenly with turkey, cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
06 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are golden.
07 - Remove from oven. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional tomato slices. Slice and serve warm.

# Pro Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Combines the iconic flavors of the Kentucky Hot Brown in a fun, pizza-style format
  • Perfect for Derby Day parties, game day gatherings, or weeknight dinners
  • Features a rich, homemade Mornay sauce that elevates every bite
  • Easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for entertaining
02 -
  • Cook bacon until crispy but not burnt—it will continue to crisp slightly in the oven
  • Use room temperature milk for the Mornay sauce to prevent lumps and ensure smooth blending
  • Don't skip the nutmeg in the sauce—it adds a subtle warmth that's essential to authentic Mornay
  • For the best melting, use freshly shredded mozzarella rather than pre-shredded
  • Let the flatbread rest for 2-3 minutes after baking before slicing for cleaner cuts
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