If you love the classic charm of a BLT but want to take it up a notch, this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe is a true game-changer. The crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato get a luxurious upgrade by a creamy, garlicky aioli that adds depth and vibrant flavor. It’s comfort food with a twist, perfect for any time you crave something easy yet extraordinary, showing how a simple sandwich can become a culinary delight that your taste buds will adore.

BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe plays an important role, whether it’s contributing texture, bright flavor, or that satisfying crunch. These are straightforward pantry staples that come together beautifully, making sure your sandwich hits all the right notes.

Bacon (8 slices): The centerpiece of the sandwich; crispy, smoky, and full of savory goodness.
Bread (4 slices): Choose your favorite type like sourdough or whole wheat for a sturdy, crunchy base.
Tomato (1 large, sliced): Adds juiciness and fresh, sweet acidity to balance the richness.
Lettuce (1 cup fresh): Romaine or iceberg provide a crisp texture and vibrant green color.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances every layer of flavor.
Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy base for the garlic aioli, adding smooth richness.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Brings a fruity, silky finish to the aioli’s texture.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The star of the aioli that infuses it with bold, inviting aroma and taste.
Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Lifts the aioli with brightness and a touch of acidity.
Dijon mustard (1 tsp): Adds subtle tang and depth to the sauce.

How to Make BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and placing the eight slices of bacon in the pan. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes, letting the bacon crisp up beautifully. Once cooked to perfection, transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. This step ensures every bite is satisfyingly crunchy and not greasy.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

While your bacon is crisping up, toast four slices of your chosen bread until it’s golden and crunchy. You can opt for a toaster or a hot skillet if you prefer a bit of a buttery crust. Toasting helps the bread hold up under the juicy components and garlic aioli, keeping everything from getting soggy.

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. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This aioli transforms a simple BLT by adding a luscious, garlicky zing that entices every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the BLTs

Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli on one side of each piece of toasted bread. On one slice, lay down the crispy bacon strips, followed by a handful of fresh lettuce and juicy tomato slices. Season the tomato lightly with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor. Cap it off with the other bread slice, aioli side down, creating that perfect sandwich stack.

Step 5: Serve

Cut the sandwich in half for easy eating, and serve immediately. If you’re on the go, wrap your BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe in parchment paper for a delicious portable lunch that won’t disappoint.

How to Serve BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten your BLT with a few creative garnishes like fresh basil leaves for an herbaceous pop or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top of the aioli to introduce a subtle warmth. These little extras turn a familiar sandwich into a personalized masterpiece.

Side Dishes

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with crispy kettle chips, a tangy pickle spear, or a light, refreshing coleslaw. These sides provide complementary textures and flavors that balance the richness of the bacon and garlic aioli perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking mini versions for a party platter or slicing your BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe into finger sandwiches for an elegant appetizer. You can also serve the components deconstructed for a fun DIY sandwich spread at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Since the sandwich contains fresh ingredients and aioli, it’s best eaten within 24 hours to maintain texture and freshness.

Freezing

Because of the fresh lettuce and tomato, freezing a fully assembled BLT with Garlic Aioli Recipe isn’t recommended as it will alter texture when thawed. However, you can freeze cooked bacon slices separately for later use.

Reheating

Reheat leftover bacon in a skillet or oven until crisp, then assemble a fresh sandwich with fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and newly made garlic aioli. Toast your bread fresh to bring back that crunch you love.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe?

Absolutely! While sourdough and whole wheat are classic, feel free to use any sturdy bread you prefer, such as ciabatta, multigrain, or even a baguette for a different texture and flavor.

Is there an easy way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make it vegetarian, replace bacon with hearty grilled mushrooms or tempeh bacon. For vegan, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use plant-based bacon alternatives. The garlic aioli can be made with vegan mayo to keep that creamy feel.

How can I make the garlic aioli less garlicky if I prefer a milder taste?

Simply reduce the amount of minced garlic to one clove or substitute with garlic powder. Mixing the aioli ahead of time also tends to mellow the sharpness as the flavors meld together in the fridge.

What is the best way to keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure to toast the bread well and spread the garlic aioli immediately before assembling. Layering the bacon first and the tomato last helps, as tomato releases moisture quickly.

Can I prepare the garlic aioli ahead of time?

Definitely! The garlic aioli can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop even more.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like a sandwich that feels familiar yet offers a memorable twist, and this BLTs with Garlic Aioli Recipe does exactly that. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and easy to customize for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how something so simple can truly shine when made with a little extra love and garlic magic.