The Hot Brown

The Hot Brown

Strawberry Jargarita

Strawberry Jargarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita

Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Orange Creamsicle Margarita

Orange Creamsicle Margarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Cherry Margarita

Italian Cherry Margarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Prepration Time
Total Time
Serving

Ingradients

For the Base:
  • 4 slices thick-cut white or sourdough bread, toasted
  • 12 oz (340g) roasted turkey breast, sliced or chopped
  • 4 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
For the Mornay Sauce (Cheese Sauce):
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp dry mustard (or Dijon)
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of salt (taste before adding — cheese is salty)
For Finishing:
  • 2 tbsp extra shredded cheddar or Parmesan (for topping)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Dish:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Lightly butter a small baking dish or place 2 oven-safe plates/serving dishes.
  2. Make the Mornay Sauce:

    • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
    • Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux (don’t brown).
    • Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).
    • Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, dry mustard, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
    • Cook until cheese is fully melted and sauce is creamy. Remove from heat.
  3. Assemble the Hot Browns:

    • Place 2 toasted bread slices on each plate or in the dish.
    • Divide turkey evenly over the bread (2 layers per sandwich if desired).
    • Pour half the Mornay sauce over each sandwich, covering the turkey completely.
    • Sprinkle extra cheese on top.
  4. Broil:

    • Place under the broiler (high setting) for 3–5 minutes, until the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly browned. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  5. Finish & Serve:

    • Remove from oven.
    • Top each with 2 strips of crispy bacon.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
    • Serve immediately with steamed green beans, coleslaw, or a simple salad.

Pros:

  1. High in Protein (36g): Excellent for muscle maintenance, especially beneficial for active adults and seniors.
  2. Rich in Calcium (620mg): Supports strong bones and teeth — great for older adults.
  3. Comforting & Satisfying: Ideal for cold days or as a special weekend treat.
  4. Classic Southern Flavor: A beloved regional dish with a gourmet flair.
  5. Easy to Scale: Can be made as individual servings or a casserole for a crowd.

Cons:

  1. Very High in Saturated Fat (24g): Exceeds the daily recommended limit — not heart-healthy.
  2. High in Sodium (1,420mg): Over half the daily limit — risky for hypertension and kidney health.
  3. Calorie-Dense (680): May not fit weight-loss or low-calorie diets.
  4. Low in Fiber (2g): Lacks whole grains and vegetables unless sides are added.
  5. Contains Dairy & Gluten: Not suitable for lactose-intolerant, dairy-free, or gluten-sensitive individuals.

Suitability for Aged People (65+ years)

Can Be Enjoyed Occasionally With Modifications:

  • High-Quality Protein (36g): Helps prevent sarcopenia (muscle loss).
  • Calcium-Rich: Supports bone health, reducing fracture risk.
  • Warm & Soft Texture: Easy to eat, especially for those with chewing or swallowing concerns.

🔹 Recommendations for Seniors:

  • Use low-sodium turkey and reduced-fat cheese to lower salt and fat.
  • Replace white bread with whole grain for added fiber.
  • Serve in half portions with a side of steamed vegetables or mixed greens.
  • Avoid if managing heart disease, kidney issues, or fluid retention.

Who Should Avoid or Modify This Recipe?

Condition
Reason
Suggested Modification
Heart Disease / High Cholesterol
Very high saturated fat and cholesterol.
Use low-fat milk, part-skim cheese, and skip bacon.
Hypertension (High BP)
Extremely high sodium (1,420mg).
Use low-sodium turkey, cheese, and skip added salt.
Kidney Disease
High sodium, phosphorus (dairy/meat), potassium.
Avoid or consult a renal dietitian.
Diabetes
Moderate carbs; sauce contains milk (natural sugars).
Use low-carb bread and monitor portions.
Lactose Intolerance
Contains butter, milk, cheddar, and Parmesan.
Use lactose-free dairy or plant-based cheese/milk.
Gluten Sensitivity
Flour and bread contain gluten.
Use gluten-free flour and bread.
Obesity / Weight Loss
High in calories and fat.
Serve half portion with large salad.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient
Amount
% Daily Value
Calories
680
Total Fat
42g
54%
Saturated Fat
24g
120%
Trans Fat
0.5g
Cholesterol
135mg
45%
Sodium
1,420mg
62%
Total Carbohydrate
38g
14%
Dietary Fiber
2g
7%
Total Sugars
6g
Protein
36g
72%
Vitamin A
780 IU
16%
Vitamin C
3mg
3%
Calcium
620mg
48%
Iron
3.1mg
17%
Potassium
640mg
14%