If you thought classic BLTs couldn’t get any better, wait until you try this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe. Imagine crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce all hugging a luscious spread of garlic-infused aioli that takes every bite to a whole new level of deliciousness. This sandwich is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—simple ingredients coming together to create unforgettable comfort food that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role—the crispy bacon brings savory crunch, fresh lettuce adds crispness and freshness, ripe tomatoes provide juiciness and acidity, and the homemade garlic aioli ties everything together with its creamy, flavorful kick.
- Bacon (8 slices): Choose thick-cut for the perfect crispy texture that holds its own in the sandwich.
- Bread (4 slices): Sourdough, whole wheat, or your favorite bread toasted until golden brown offers a sturdy yet tender base.
- Tomato (1 large, sliced): Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for that sweet-tart burst in every bite.
- Lettuce (1 cup, fresh): Romaine or iceberg lettuce adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness.
- Salt and pepper: Just enough to enhance the natural flavors and season the sandwich perfectly.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy foundation for the garlic aioli, lending smoothness and richness.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds a silky texture and subtle fruitiness to the aioli.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives the aioli its signature zing and depth of flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens the aioli with a fresh citrus note, balancing the garlic’s intensity.
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp): Provides a gentle pungency that rounds out the aioli’s flavor profile.
How to Make BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Lay in your bacon slices and let them cook undisturbed until they reach that beautiful crispy texture, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. This step ensures your bacon is perfectly crunchy without being greasy—key to a truly satisfying BLT.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
While the bacon cooks, toast your bread slices to a golden brown either using a toaster or a skillet. The toasty bread not only adds great flavor but also creates a sturdy structure that won’t get soggy from the aioli or tomato juices.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Aioli
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. This garlicky, creamy aioli is the star condiment that elevates this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe beyond your typical sandwich.
Step 4: Assemble the BLTs
Begin by spreading a generous layer of your homemade garlic aioli on one side of each toasted bread slice. On one slice, layer the crispy bacon first, then pile on the fresh lettuce and juicy tomato slices. Finish by placing the other slice of bread on top, aioli side down. The aioli acts like the glue holding everything in place, while infusing every bite with flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Slice your sandwiches in half for easy eating and serve immediately. If you want to take this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe on the go, wrap it tightly in parchment paper, and you’ve got yourself an unbeatable portable lunch that tastes like it was made fresh just for you.
How to Serve BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper over the tomato slices or a few fresh basil leaves can brighten the flavor and add a pop of color. You can also consider a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra tangy sweetness that complements the garlicky aioli beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your BLTs with garlic aioli with classic side options like crunchy kettle chips or a crisp pickle spear to add that salty, tangy bite. A fresh side salad with a simple vinaigrette also balances the richness of the sandwich perfectly for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your BLTs as mini sliders on small rolls for a fun party appetizer or cut them into finger sandwiches layered on a platter for gatherings. You can also experiment by grilling the fully assembled sandwiches lightly to melt the flavors together and give the bread a warm, crispy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe leftovers, it’s best to store the components separately to keep everything fresh—wrap the bacon and veggies individually and keep the aioli refrigerated in an airtight container. Reassemble right before eating for the best texture and taste.
Freezing
Although BLTs are best fresh, you can freeze the cooked bacon by itself for up to a month. The bread and fresh veggies don’t freeze well, so it’s best to prepare those fresh. Defrost the bacon in the fridge overnight when you are ready to enjoy your next sandwich.
Reheating
To reheat bacon, pop it in a skillet over medium-low heat or blast it in the microwave for 30 seconds to regain crispiness. Toast your bread slices fresh to revive their crunch. Avoid reheating the assembled sandwich to keep the aioli creamy and the lettuce crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough or whole wheat are great choices, feel free to use any bread you love, such as rye or a soft brioche. Just make sure to toast it for added texture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the garlic aioli?
Yes, you can swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly but still maintain that creamy consistency the garlic aioli needs.
Can I make the garlic aioli ahead of time?
Definitely! The garlic aioli can be prepared up to two days ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors actually mellow and deepen as it sits, making your BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe even more delicious.
How do I keep my lettuce from getting soggy?
Make sure to dry your lettuce thoroughly after washing, and layer it between the bacon and tomatoes so it stays crisp. Assembling the sandwich just before eating also helps maintain that fresh crunch.
Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?
Of course! Avocado slices, crispy fried onions, or even a slice of cheddar cheese can add extra dimensions of flavor and texture that complement the classic BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe beautifully.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love how simple ingredients combine to make this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe so incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It’s the kind of sandwich that feels like a treat but is easy enough to whip up any day of the week. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic BLT sandwich is elevated with a creamy, zesty garlic aioli, combining crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato on toasted bread. Perfect for a quick, flavorful lunch or dinner, these sandwiches offer a delightful balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the sandwiches:
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or your favorite type)
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1 cup fresh lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the garlic aioli:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease.
- Toast the bread: While the bacon is cooking, toast the bread slices until they are golden brown. You may use a toaster or a skillet for this step, depending on your preference.
- Make the garlic aioli: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning as desired.
- Assemble the BLTs: Spread a generous amount of garlic aioli on one side of each toasted bread slice. On one slice, layer the crispy bacon, followed by fresh lettuce and sliced tomato. Season the tomato lightly with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. Top with the other slice of bread, aioli side down, to complete the sandwich.
- Serve: Cut the sandwiches in half for easier handling and serve immediately. Alternatively, wrap the sandwiches in parchment paper to make a convenient, portable lunch option.
Notes
- For extra crisp bacon, bake bacon in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes instead of skillet cooking.
- Customize the aioli by adding smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy twist.
- Use thick-sliced bread for a heartier sandwich experience.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute bread with gluten-free slices.
- The sandwich is best served fresh but can be wrapped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
