If you’re on the hunt for a sandwich that’s classic at heart but totally irresistible with a garlicky twist, these BLTs with Garlic Aioli will be your new obsession. Thick, crispy bacon, juicy tomato slices, and cool, fresh greens are all tucked into golden toasted bread, but what takes it to new heights is the luscious homemade garlic aioli. This isn’t just another lunch—it’s a game-changer that’ll have you savoring each crunchy, creamy bite. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weekday meal or impressing brunch guests, BLTs with Garlic Aioli are about to earn a regular spot in your recipe lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of BLTs with Garlic Aioli lies in the simplicity of its ingredients—each one plays an important role, adding flavor, freshness, or crunch. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips to make the most out of every component.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon crisps up beautifully, bringing smoky, savory richness to the sandwich.
- Bread: Sourdough or your favorite sandwich bread gives structure and golden edges after toasting.
- Tomato: Opt for a large, ripe tomato—the juicier, the better! Heirloom varieties are wonderful if you can find them.
- Lettuce: Romaine or butter lettuce both add a cool, crisp bite as a perfect contrast to the bacon.
- Mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base for the garlic aioli, binding the whole sandwich together.
- Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic brings the bold, aromatic flavor that distinguishes the aioli.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brightens the aioli and balances out the richness.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds just a hint of tang and complexity to the aioli spread.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning for both the aioli and the layers of the sandwich.
- Butter (optional): For toasting bread, a swipe of butter gives a deliciously crisp finish.
How to Make BLTs with Garlic Aioli
Step 1: Whip Up the Garlic Aioli
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Give it a vigorous whisk until it’s smooth and creamy. This easy yet flavor-packed aioli is what sets BLTs with Garlic Aioli apart, bringing a zippy, aromatic flair that coats each bite.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection
Lay out your thick-cut bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat. Let them sizzle away, flipping as needed, until every piece is browned and perfectly crisp. Use tongs to transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate—this keeps things crunchy and not greasy.
Step 3: Toast the Bread
For a golden, crunchy exterior, lightly butter each slice of bread (if you like) and toast them in a pan or toaster. Don’t skip this step! Toasted bread provides a delicious contrast to the juicy tomato and creamy aioli in your BLTs with Garlic Aioli.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Generously spread garlic aioli on one side of each slice of bread. On half of the slices, layer fresh lettuce, thick slices of ripe tomato, and crisp bacon. Crown each with the second slice of bread, aioli-side down, so every bite is flavor-packed and satisfying.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
With everything stacked and ready, slice your sandwiches in half—diagonally if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately, and get ready for those eyes-rolling-back moments that only BLTs with Garlic Aioli can provide.
How to Serve BLTs with Garlic Aioli
Garnishes
For the best BLTs with Garlic Aioli, try sprinkling on some flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper after assembling. A few snipped chives or parsley leaves on top will add a restaurant-worthy finish and complement the garlic notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your BLTs with Garlic Aioli with a crispy handful of kettle chips, a scoop of tangy coleslaw, or a simple green salad for freshness. If you’re feeling indulgent, sweet potato fries or a dill pickle spear are always a crowd favorite, balancing the richness with a little zing.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these BLTs with Garlic Aioli into sliders for parties, serve them open-faced on toasted baguette slices for brunch, or even wrap them picnic-style in parchment and twine for a lunch that wows, wherever you take it! Sandwich lovers will appreciate seeing (and tasting) your twist on a beloved classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you wind up with extra BLTs with Garlic Aioli, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but a sandwich stored this way can be tasty for up to 24 hours—just be aware that the bread may soften from the juicy tomatoes and aioli.
Freezing
While you can freeze the cooked bacon or extra bread, assembled BLTs with Garlic Aioli don’t freeze well. The fresh ingredients and aioli can become mushy after thawing. For best results, store the components separately and assemble right before enjoying.
Reheating
If you’d like to serve your BLTs with Garlic Aioli warm, gently re-toast the bread slices and crisp up the cold bacon in a skillet or oven. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the bread soggy. Assemble with fresh lettuce and tomato just before serving for that signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I make the garlic aioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic aioli up to three days in advance. Keep it stored in a covered container in the fridge and give it a good stir before spreading it on your BLTs with Garlic Aioli.
What’s the best kind of bread for BLTs with Garlic Aioli?
Sourdough adds a slight tang and fantastic crunch, but any hearty sandwich bread will work well. Just make sure it toasts up nicely to support the juicy fillings and creamy aioli.
How do I make these sandwiches vegetarian?
For a meatless version of BLTs with Garlic Aioli, use your favorite plant-based bacon or even roasted mushrooms for a smoky, satisfying swap. The garlic aioli pairs delightfully with these alternatives!
Can I add cheese to the sandwich?
Definitely! A slice of sharp cheddar or creamy Havarti can add an extra layer of richness. Just be sure to lightly melt the cheese on the toast, so it doesn’t overpower those signature BLTs with Garlic Aioli flavors.
What’s the best way to pack them for lunch?
To prevent sogginess, pack components separately—the bread, the bacon, the lettuce and tomato, and the aioli in a small container. Assemble your BLTs with Garlic Aioli fresh just before eating for the ultimate texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about BLTs with Garlic Aioli that keeps you coming back—simple to make, yet restaurant-level delicious. Grab these ingredients, treat yourself and your friends, and prepare to see this sandwich disappear in record time. Give it a try, and share the love with anyone who appreciates a classic done right!
Print
BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A classic BLT sandwich elevated with a flavorful garlic aioli spread, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch option.
Ingredients
Bacon Sandwich:
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 8 slices sourdough or sandwich bread
- 1 large ripe tomato (sliced)
- 4 leaves romaine or butter lettuce
- Optional: butter for toasting bread
Garlic Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Cook Bacon: Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Toast Bread: Lightly butter and toast bread slices until golden brown.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread garlic aioli on one side of each bread slice. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, and bacon. Top with the second bread slice, aioli-side down. Slice and serve.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the aioli.
- Consider using heirloom tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Swap romaine lettuce with arugula for a different taste profile.
- Options for dietary preferences: turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can be used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
