If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends indulgence and comfort with a lively twist, then the Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the classic open-faced Kentucky Hot Brown—rich, creamy, and layered with smoked turkey and bacon—transformed into a pizza that’s crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful. This recipe takes familiar Southern charm and gives it a nouvelle spin, combining buttery dough, a luscious cheese sauce, and savory toppings that come together in the most delightful way. Grab your apron, because this is one comfort food makeover that you and your loved ones will want to enjoy again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, well-chosen ingredients that each add something special to the final dish. From the tender smoked turkey that brings savory depth to the creamy cheese sauce made with Romano, every component plays a crucial role in building up flavor, texture, and color. The balance of richness and freshness here couldn’t be easier to achieve, so stocking your kitchen with these essentials is the first step to pizza perfection.
- 1 cup warm water: Use lukewarm water to activate the yeast gently without killing it, which helps your dough rise beautifully.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for the perfect dough texture and rise.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to feed the yeast and help create a tender crust—low-carb sweeteners work in a pinch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Vital for seasoning the dough and balancing the flavors—you don’t want to skip this.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings moisture and richness to the dough while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough provides structure, or swap with almond or gluten-free flour blends if preferred.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Key to the luscious cheese sauce giving it that silky richness that defines the Hot Brown experience.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Creates a decadently creamy sauce, though half-and-half will make it lighter if desired.
- 1 cup Romano cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty punch—feel free to substitute parmesan or a blend for variation.
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg (optional): Just a touch adds warmth and depth to the cheese sauce’s flavor.
- 2 cups smoked turkey breast: The star protein delivering that iconic Hot Brown taste, perfect for using leftovers too.
- 1 cup bacon: Use pre-cooked to save time; crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch and smoky savor.
- 1 large Roma tomato: Fresh tomato slices provide juicy brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich toppings.
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Sprinkled on top for a pop of smoky color and mild spice.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Optional but highly recommended as it adds a fresh, herbal note and a lovely green garnish.
How to Make Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist Recipe
Step 1: Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) and placing a pizza stone inside to ensure a perfectly crisp crust. This step mimics a professional pizza oven and makes all the difference in texture.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and gently whisk in the heavy whipping cream alongside the grated Romano cheese. Let this mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese fully melts and the sauce thickens with a rich, creamy consistency. If you like, stir in a pinch of nutmeg to give it that cozy, warm undertone that complements the cheese beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Combine the warm water and active dry yeast in a bowl and allow it to sit for 5 minutes or until frothy—this proofing stage confirms your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. Then, mix in sugar, olive oil, and salt before gradually adding the flour. Knead the dough until it forms a soft, elastic ball that’s not too sticky. This dough will create the perfect base for your Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Roll out your dough into a 14-16 inch circle, aiming for an even thickness so every slice has the perfect balance of crust and toppings. Transfer the dough carefully onto your heated pizza stone or a baking sheet for baking.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Begin by spreading half of the luscious cheese sauce evenly onto the dough. Arrange the smoked turkey breast slices on top for that signature savory layer. Next, spoon the remaining cheese sauce generously over the turkey before scattering the crispy bacon pieces and laying down slices of the fresh Roma tomato. Each topping works harmoniously for flavor and texture.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, keeping an eye out for a golden-brown crust and bubbling, melted cheese on top. This timing ensures a crisp crust meets gooey, flavorful toppings without drying out.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your pizza is out of the oven, let it rest for a minute to settle. Then sprinkle paprika and fresh parsley over the surface for that classic pop of color and extra zest. Slice it up and get ready to experience comfort food happiness with a cheesy twist!
How to Serve Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like fresh parsley and paprika aren’t just for looks. Parsley adds a refreshing herbal brightness that cuts through the richness, while paprika lends a gentle smoky warmth that makes every bite more exciting. You can also experiment with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to personalize the flavor.
Side Dishes
This pizza stands happily on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette creates an excellent balance, brightening the meal and adding fresh texture. For something heartier, roasted vegetables or a bowl of creamy soup make wonderful companions that echo the comfort food vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re preparing this for a gathering, consider cutting the Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist Recipe into smaller, appetizer-sized squares for easy sharing. You can also serve it with a build-your-own garnish station featuring extra herbs, hot sauce, or extra cheese to let everyone jazz their slice up their way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pizza tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust from getting soggy and maintains the flavors as fresh as possible.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked slices by placing parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking and then storing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen pizza slices stay good for up to 2 months, making meal prep super convenient.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza is in a hot oven or a toaster oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, which brings back the crispy crust and warms the toppings without drying out the sauce.
FAQs
Can I substitute the smoked turkey for another protein?
Absolutely! While smoked turkey is traditional and adds an authentic flavor, grilled chicken breast or even a roasted turkey can be excellent alternatives to keep the taste close to the original.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist Recipe?
Definitely! You can replace the turkey and bacon with hearty mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or plant-based bacon substitutes to maintain that savory depth while keeping it meat-free.
What if I don’t have a pizza stone?
No worries at all. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper works just fine—just make sure to preheat the sheet in the oven for a crispier crust or bake at a slightly lower temperature to compensate for the difference.
Can I use pre-made pizza dough instead of making my own?
Yes! Store-bought dough saves time and still tastes great. Just roll it out to the recommended size and proceed as usual with the toppings and baking.
How do I make the cheese sauce less rich?
You can lighten the sauce by substituting half-and-half for heavy cream and using a blend of Romano and part-skim mozzarella cheeses for a milder flavor and less fat without sacrificing creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about turning a beloved Southern classic into a pizza that brings friends and family together with cheesy, comforting flavors. The Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza: Comfort Food with a Cheesy Twist Recipe invites you to savor both nostalgia and creativity in every bite. It’s perfect for cozy nights, casual get-togethers, or any time you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Give it a try—you’ll be making this one again and again!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Comfort Food, Main Course, Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Description
This Kentucky Hot Brown Pizza offers a delicious twist on the classic comfort food, featuring a rich, creamy cheese sauce, smoked turkey, crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes atop a handmade pizza crust. Baked to golden perfection, this savory pie combines Southern flavors with a cheesy indulgence that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (lukewarm, not hot)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (ensure it’s not expired)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (can substitute with a low-carb sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon salt (do not omit)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (can substitute with other oils)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (can replace with almond flour or gluten-free blend)
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter (do not substitute)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (can swap with half-and-half)
- 1 cup Romano cheese (can substitute with parmesan or a blend)
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg (optional)
Toppings
- 2 cups smoked turkey breast (great for using leftovers)
- 1 cup bacon (use pre-cooked bacon to save time)
- 1 large Roma tomato (substitute with preferred variety)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (for seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) and placing a pizza stone inside to heat up thoroughly.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 cup of grated Romano cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Optionally, add a pinch of ground nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of lukewarm water with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: Mix in 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, stirring to form a smooth dough. Knead briefly if necessary.
- Shape the Dough: Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a circle approximately 14 to 16 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet.
- Add Toppings: Spread half of the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the dough. Layer with slices of smoked turkey breast, then add the remaining cheese sauce on top. Crumble the pre-cooked bacon over the pizza and arrange slices of Roma tomato as the finishing touch.
- Bake: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are bubbling gently.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Sprinkle with paprika and fresh parsley. Slice into wedges and serve hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Ensure yeast is fresh and not expired to activate properly.
- Use lukewarm water to avoid killing the yeast.
- Pre-cooked bacon saves time and ensures it crisps well without overcooking the pizza.
- Pizza stone helps achieve a crisp crust but a baking sheet can be used as an alternative.
- Ground nutmeg in the cheese sauce is optional but adds a subtle warmth.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and almond flour for the dough.
- Leftover smoked turkey works great and enhances the flavor.
