Indulge in a beloved Southern classic, reimagined for your low-carb lifestyle: the Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole. This incredible dish features three rich, satisfying layers and can be ready to delight your taste buds in under an hour. It’s the perfect blend of hearty comfort food and ketogenic excellence, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or weekly meal prep.
Unveiling the Classic: What is a Kentucky Hot Brown?
The original Hot Brown is a culinary icon hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, specifically created at The Brown Hotel in 1926 by Chef Fred Schmidt. It was designed as a late-night supper for hungry dancers after a night of revelry. Far more than just a sandwich, it’s a gastronomic experience featuring an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with a rich Mornay sauce, sliced tomatoes, and crispy bacon, then baked until golden and bubbly. It quickly gained fame and remains a cherished staple of Southern cuisine, synonymous with comfort and indulgence.
Transforming this legendary sandwich into a casserole makes it even easier to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd. Instead of individual open-faced sandwiches, all the delectable ingredients are layered into a single baking dish, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it bakes. This method not only simplifies the cooking process but also creates a more unified, creamy, and satisfying dish that truly captures the essence of the classic Hot Brown while offering a delightful new texture.
The Keto Transformation: Crafting a Low-Carb Kentucky Hot Brown
The main challenge in adapting the traditional Kentucky Hot Brown into a keto-friendly version lies in replacing the high-carb bread base. Standard bread is a no-go on a ketogenic diet, which typically restricts carbohydrate intake to about 20-50 grams per day. To create an authentic low-carb foundation for this savory casserole, we turn to the ingenious “Fathead dough.”
Fathead dough is a versatile and popular staple in keto baking, known for its ability to mimic the texture and flavor of traditional dough. It’s primarily made from a blend of melted mozzarella and cream cheese, almond flour, an egg, and a touch of xanthan gum for elasticity, along with baking powder and garlic powder for flavor and leavening. This unique combination creates a soft, fluffy, and incredibly satisfying bread layer that bakes up beautifully, providing the perfect base for our rich toppings. I’ve successfully used Fathead dough in other recipes like my keto Italian sub casserole, proving its adaptability and reliability for delicious low-carb meals.
The beauty of using Fathead dough here is that it not only keeps the carb count low but also adds another layer of cheesy goodness that complements the creamy sauce and savory turkey perfectly. This innovative approach allows you to enjoy all the comforting flavors of a Kentucky Hot Brown without compromising your ketogenic goals, making this casserole a true game-changer for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle.
Convenience at its Best: Keto Hot Brown Casserole for Meal Prep
This Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly convenient for busy individuals and families. It’s an ideal candidate for make-ahead meals, freezer storage, and structured meal prep, helping you stay on track with your low-carb diet effortlessly.
To prepare this casserole in advance, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions. Once cooled, cover the dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, a quick reheat in the oven or microwave will bring it back to life, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short.
For those who love to plan their meals, this casserole fits perfectly into your weekly rotation. Divide the baked casserole into individual portions and store them in airtight meal prep containers. These single servings can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, offering a ready-to-eat, satisfying low-carb lunch or dinner throughout the week.
If you’re looking for an even longer-term solution, this keto casserole freezes exceptionally well. After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely to prevent ice crystals from forming. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Stored properly, it will retain its quality in the freezer for up to six months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat thoroughly in the oven until warmed through. This versatility makes the Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole a fantastic addition to any low-carb kitchen.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Keto Hot Brown Casserole
This Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole is remarkably filling and satisfying on its own, packed with protein and healthy fats. However, adding a fresh, vibrant side dish can elevate the meal and introduce complementary textures and flavors. When choosing sides, aim for low-carb options that provide a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.
A fantastic choice is a light and refreshing salad. Consider a keto cauliflower cranberry walnut salad, which offers a delightful crunch and a hint of sweet-tart flavors from the cranberries, balancing the savory notes of the casserole. The walnuts add healthy fats and a satisfying texture. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, pairing the casserole with jalapeno oopsie bread can add a zesty kick. This light and airy bread, infused with spicy jalapeno, offers a lovely textural contrast without adding significant carbs.
Other excellent low-carb vegetable sides include steamed green beans with a knob of butter, roasted asparagus with lemon, or a simple garden salad with a creamy keto dressing. A side of creamy mashed cauliflower would also complement the casserole’s texture beautifully. Don’t forget dessert! To complete your Southern-inspired keto meal, a spongy keto pumpkin angel food cake offers a perfectly sweet and light finish, harmonizing the rich savory and salty flavors of the main dish.
Essential Ingredients for Your Keto Turkey Casserole
Crafting the perfect Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole begins with selecting quality ingredients that align with your low-carb lifestyle. The foundation of this dish relies on cooked turkey breast, providing a lean and flavorful protein. When choosing your turkey, opt for unsweetened, unbrined options to avoid hidden sugars and carbs. You can use leftover roasted turkey, deli-sliced turkey, or even freshly cooked turkey breast slices.
While turkey is the star, some traditional Hot Brown recipes occasionally feature sliced ham. If you decide to incorporate ham, it’s crucial to select a variety that is not honey-glazed, maple-cured, or otherwise sweetened, as these will significantly increase the carb count. Look for savory, unsmoked, or dry-cured ham varieties. The crispy bacon crumbles add a crucial element of flavor and texture, so choose a good quality, sugar-free bacon for the best results.
For the creamy cheese sauce, heavy whipping cream provides the necessary richness and fat, while chicken broth thins it to the perfect consistency and adds depth of flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese is key for that savory, umami note. Ensure your Parmesan is fresh and grated from a block for superior flavor and meltability. Butter is used for sautéing and adding a silky finish to the sauce. Lastly, fresh Roma tomatoes add a touch of color and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish. Slicing them thinly ensures they cook down nicely within the casserole without overpowering other flavors.
Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole Recipe
Here’s your detailed guide to making this delectable Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole. All precise measurements and step-by-step instructions are provided below to ensure your culinary success.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Net Carbs: Approximately 5 net carbs per serving
- Calories: Approximately 575 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
For the Bread Layer:
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 oz. Cream cheese
- 1 ¼ cup Almond flour
- 1 Large egg
- ¼ tsp. Xanthan gum
- 1 tsp. Baking powder
- ¼ tsp. Garlic powder
For the Topping:
- 1 lb. Sliced cooked turkey breast
- ½ cup Crumbled bacon
- 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced thinly
For the Sauce:
- 1 ½ cup Heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup Chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 Tbsp. Butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Thoroughly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and cream cheese.
Microwave the cheeses in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and well combined into a smooth mixture.
Transfer the melted cheese mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the almond flour, large egg, xanthan gum, baking powder, and garlic powder. Blend thoroughly until a smooth, cohesive dough forms.
Press this dough mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
While the bread layer is baking, prepare the sauce: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Stir in the heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Once the bread layer is finished baking, carefully arrange the sliced cooked turkey breast over the top. Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon and place the thin tomato slices over the turkey.
Evenly pour the creamy cheese sauce mixture over the entire casserole, ensuring all ingredients are well coated. Top with the remaining crumbled bacon.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the toppings are warmed through.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making for cleaner portions.
Recipe Notes
Nutritional Information: The nutritional information for this recipe is calculated as a courtesy and is an approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipes on this site. Factors such as exact ingredient brands, preparation methods, and serving sizes can affect the final nutritional content. Always verify with your own calculations if precise nutritional data is critical for your dietary needs.
Explore More Keto Turkey Recipes
If you’ve savored every bite of this delightful Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole, you’ll be excited to discover more delicious and low-carb ways to incorporate turkey into your ketogenic diet. Turkey is a versatile protein, perfect for a variety of dishes that are both healthy and satisfying. Here are some additional keto-friendly turkey recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:
- Keto Thai Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps: A light, flavorful, and incredibly fresh meal perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Keto Turkey Ranch Pinwheels: These make an excellent snack, appetizer, or a fun, easy lunchbox item.
- Keto Turkey Pot Pie Recipe: Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with a low-carb twist, featuring a rich filling and a savory crust.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Turkey Breast Recipe: A simple yet elegant main course that’s bursting with bright, aromatic flavors.
- Keto Turkey Mexican Skillet Recipe: A vibrant and easy one-pan meal, perfect for a quick and spicy weeknight dinner.
Conclusion: Savor the Southern Keto Delight
The Keto Kentucky Hot Brown Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of Southern comfort food adapted for a modern, health-conscious lifestyle. By thoughtfully substituting high-carb ingredients with low-carb alternatives like our fluffy Fathead dough and a rich, creamy sauce, we’ve created a dish that captures all the indulgent flavors of the classic Hot Brown without sacrificing your ketogenic goals. Whether you’re a long-time keto follower or just exploring low-carb options, this casserole promises to be a deeply satisfying and surprisingly easy meal. Enjoy the convenience of make-ahead prep, the versatility of delicious side pairings, and the sheer joy of a truly remarkable low-carb dish that brings a taste of Kentucky right to your table. Don’t wait to try this magnificent casserole – it’s sure to become a new favorite in your keto repertoire!
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