Kentucky Derby Hot Brown (Print Version)

Flatbread topped with turkey, bacon, tomatoes, and cheesy Mornay sauce for a savory meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Flatbread & 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 - 2-3 thin tomato slices (optional, for garnish)

# Recipe Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
03 - Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (approximately 2-3 minutes).
04 - Remove from heat. Stir in Pecorino Romano, white pepper, salt, and nutmeg until smooth. Set aside.
05 - Place flatbreads on prepared baking sheet. Spread each with a generous layer of Mornay sauce.
06 - Top evenly with turkey, cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
07 - Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are golden brown.
08 - Remove from oven. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional tomato slices. Slice and serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Combines the rich, comforting flavors of a Kentucky Hot Brown with the easy, shareable format of flatbread pizza
  • Quick and simple with just 40 minutes total time, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining
  • The creamy Mornay sauce with Pecorino Romano adds restaurant-quality flavor
  • Great way to use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken
  • Impressive presentation that celebrates Southern culinary heritage with a modern twist
02 -
  • Prepare the Mornay sauce ahead of time and refrigerate; gently reheat before assembling
  • Cook bacon until extra crispy so it stays crunchy even after baking
  • Use a pizza stone preheated in the oven for an even crispier flatbread base
  • Don't skip the nutmeg in the sauce—it adds authentic Hot Brown flavor
  • Let the flatbread cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing to help the cheese set slightly
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