Air Fryer BLT

My Recipe for Air Fryer BLT is fantastic! If you are looking for a great and easy recipe, this is one of the BEST recipes for a super-duper BLT sandwich. 

 

I saw this recipe on Rachel Ray a while back, and I was like, I do need to make that in my air fryer because you can make the sandwich and the bacon, and you can also ideally make the hard-boiled eggs.

So, if you are looking for the BEST Air Fryer BLT to make for yourself and your family, this is the recipe you need, and hopefully, after seeing a few pictures, you want to make it!

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Sandwich Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER HARDEE’S BIG HOT HAM ‘N’ CHEESE, AIR FRYER WEIGHT WATCHER GRILLED CHEESE, AIR FRYER PATTY MELT, AIR FRYER REUBEN SANDWICH, and AIR FRYER GRILLED APPLE, BACON, AND CHEDDAR SANDWICHES.

Easy Air Fryer BLT Recipe

Whipping up an Easy Air Fryer BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) Sandwich is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy this classic combination with a modern twist. With its ability to cook bacon to perfect crispiness without the mess or hassle of traditional pan-frying, the air fryer elevates the BLT to new heights of flavor and convenience. By rendering the bacon crisp and golden while minimizing grease, the air fryer ensures each bite of your BLT is impeccably balanced in texture and taste. The warmth of the freshly cooked bacon, paired with the cool crunch of lettuce and the juicy freshness of tomato, creates a symphony of flavors beautifully encased between two slices of lightly toasted bread.

What sets this Easy Air Fryer BLT Recipe apart is the ease and cleanliness of the cooking process and its versatility. Whether you prefer your bacon thick-cut and chewy or thin and shatteringly crisp, the air fryer can accommodate your taste with simple adjustments to the cooking time. Moreover, this method opens up room for creativity—think of adding a spread of avocado for creaminess or a swipe of aioli for a garlicky punch. The air fryer not only simplifies the preparation of this beloved sandwich but also invites you to customize it to your heart’s content, making the classic BLT an exciting canvas for culinary experimentation.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

The Air Fryer BLT recipe is a delightful twist on a classic sandwich that promises to become a new favorite for its simplicity, flavor, and health benefits. Here’s why you will love this recipe:

• Crispier Bacon with Less Mess: The air fryer cooks bacon to perfect crispiness without the splatter and grease of traditional pan-frying, making cleanup a breeze. You get evenly cooked, crispy bacon every time, which is the heart of a BLT.
• Healthier Option: Air frying bacon reduces the amount of fat compared to frying in a pan, making your BLT a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The bacon retains its delicious flavor and crunch but with less grease.
• Enhanced Flavors: The quick cooking time in an air fryer locks in the flavors of the bacon, making it taste even better. Pair it with fresh, crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes, and you have a sandwich that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
• Convenience: Making a BLT in an air fryer is incredibly convenient. The air fryer heats up quickly, and you can cook the bacon while you prepare the lettuce and tomatoes, making it a quick and easy meal option for any time of the day.
• Versatility: This recipe invites customization. Beyond the classic ingredients, you can add avocado for creaminess, a fried egg for extra protein, or experiment with different types of lettuce and bread to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect Toast: If you choose, you can also toast your bread in the air fryer, giving it a nice crunch that complements the softness of the tomato and the crispiness of the bacon, creating a perfect textural balance.
• Year-Round Enjoyment: No need to wait for good grilling weather to enjoy a delicious BLT. The air fryer lets you make this classic sandwich any time of the year, right in your kitchen.

This Air Fryer BLT recipe not only simplifies the cooking process but elevates the sandwich to a new level of deliciousness and convenience. It’s a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients, when cooked correctly, can create a meal that’s both simple and spectacular.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer BLT

Dive into the world of effortless cooking with this Air Fryer BLT recipe, a modern take on the classic Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato sandwich. Utilizing the air fryer streamlines the preparation process and delivers irresistibly crispy bacon, pairing beautifully with the fresh, crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, showcasing how traditional favorites can be reinvented for today’s health-conscious and busy lifestyles.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Eggs: Use hardboiled eggs for added protein.
• Bacon: The star of the sandwich, bacon becomes wonderfully crispy in the air fryer, offering that essential smoky, salty crunch with less grease.
• Lettuce: Choose crisp lettuce, such as iceberg or romaine, for a fresh, crunchy contrast to the bacon’s richness.
• Tomato: Ripe tomatoes add a juicy, slightly sweet, and tangy flavor, balancing the saltiness of the bacon and the creamy mayonnaise.
• Bread: Opt for thick slices of your favorite bread, from classic white to whole grain or sourdough, lightly toasted to add texture and warmth to the sandwich
• Avacado: Adds some great flavor to your BLT.
• Mayonnaise: A spread of mayonnaise on the toasted bread adds a layer of creaminess, binding the sandwich components together harmoniously.
• Seasonings & Spices: Lemon Pepper, Brown Sugar, Black Pepper, Paprika, Minced Garlic and Dijon Mustard.

How To Make A BLT in Air Fryer

Crafting a BLT sandwich in an air fryer is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this timeless classic. The air fryer cooks the bacon to perfection and can also crisp your bread to the ideal texture. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a BLT in an air fryer:

Preheat the air fryer to 250 degrees F, set the air fryer to 5 minutes, place eggs into the air fryer, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from the basket and place in a bowl of iced water for 10 minutes. Peel off the eggshell and thinly slice the eggs. 

Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees F, air fryer setting, for 5 minutes.

Combine brown sugar, pepper, and paprika in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning onto the bacon on both sides. 

Add ¼ cup water to the bottom of the air fryer under the basket. Arrange bacon in a single layer in the air fryer basket—Cook for 10 minutes. Remove and place onto a paper towel-lined plate to soak excess drippings. 

Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees  F, Air Fryer setting.

Combine mayo, garlic, dijon mustard, and lemon pepper in a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth.  Add 2 tbsp to each piece of bread. Top with a second piece to make an empty sandwich. Place the bread into the air fryer and cook for 1 minute to toast it.

Slice avocado and tomatoes. Remove bread from the air fryer and separate top from bottom. Top the untoasted side of each bottom slice with egg slices, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado. Add more mayo if desired, and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

The classic BLT sandwich, known for its simplicity and delicious combination of bacon, lettuce, and tomato, can be transformed into various delightful variations using an air fryer. Here are some creative twists to the traditional recipe that will bring new flavors to your table:

• Avocado BLT: Incorporate slices of creamy avocado into your BLT for a rich, buttery texture. The smoothness of the avocado pairs perfectly with the crispiness of the bacon and the freshness of the lettuce and tomato.
• Spicy BLT: Add a kick to your BLT by introducing spicy elements. Spread a thin layer of chipotle mayo on the bread, or add slices of jalapeño or banana peppers for a sandwich that packs heat and flavor.
• BLT with Fried Egg: Add a fried egg to turn your BLT into a hearty breakfast sandwich or a filling lunch. The runny yolk adds a delicious richness that complements the classic BLT ingredients.
• Turkey Bacon BLT: Substitute regular pork bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter version of the traditional BLT. You’ll still enjoy the smoky flavor but with fewer calories and less fat.
• BLT Wrap: Swap the toasted bread for a large flour tortilla to make a BLT wrap. After cooking the bacon in the air fryer, wrap it up with lettuce, tomato, and mayo in the tortilla. You can lightly toast the wrap in the air fryer for a minute to add a bit of warmth and crispiness.
• Cheesy BLT: Before assembling the sandwich, add a slice of your favorite cheese—such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack—on top of the bacon during the last minute of air frying to melt it slightly. The melted cheese adds a gooey, indulgent layer to the sandwich.
• Pesto BLT: Spread basil pesto on the bread instead of mayonnaise for an Italian twist. The pesto adds a vibrant, herby flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bacon, lettuce, and tomato.
• California BLT: Embrace the flavors of California by adding sprouts and cucumber slices to your BLT, along with the avocado. This version is refreshingly crisp and perfect for a light meal.
• BLT with Crispy Onions: Add crispy fried onions for an additional crunch and a sweet, savory flavor that elevates the sandwich. You can quickly air-fry thinly sliced onions until they’re golden and crispy before adding them to the sandwich.
• Buffalo Chicken BLT: Replace the bacon with buffalo chicken tenders for a spicy twist on the classic BLT. The tangy buffalo sauce adds a flavorful punch that complements the cool lettuce and tomato.

Each of these variations brings a unique twist to the beloved BLT, utilizing the air fryer to enhance flavors and textures. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy, or even a bit healthier, there’s an air fryer BLT variation that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Air Fryer BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) sandwich involves a blend of technique, timing, and quality ingredients. Here are some pro tips to elevate your BLT experience:

• Select Quality Ingredients: Choose thick-cut bacon for a meatier texture and robust flavor. Fresh, crisp lettuce and ripe, juicy tomatoes are key for the best taste and texture contrast.
• Achieving Perfect Bacon: Lay the bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly. Depending on thickness, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. Aim for a balance between crispy and slightly chewy for the best texture in your sandwich.
• Toasting the Bread in the Air Fryer: Lightly butter or brush olive oil on both sides of your bread slices and toast them in the air fryer at 360°F (180°C) for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. This adds a nice crunch and flavor.
• Layering Your BLT: Start with a base of bread, add a layer of mayonnaise, then lettuce (to prevent the bread from getting soggy), followed by tomato, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper, and finally, top with crispy bacon.
• Mayonnaise Matters: Spread mayonnaise on both the top and bottom slices of bread for a creamy texture in every bite. Mix your mayo with garlic powder or lemon zest for an extra flavor boost.
• Adding Freshness: Iceberg provides a classic crunch for the lettuce, but romaine or butter lettuce is great for adding a bit of sweetness and a softer texture.
• Tomato Tips: Use ripe but firm tomatoes to ensure they add moisture and sweetness without making the sandwich soggy. Slicing them thinly helps distribute the tomato flavor in every bite.
• Seasoning: Before assembling, don’t forget to season your tomato slices with a little salt and pepper. This small step can greatly enhance the overall flavor of your BLT.
• Customization: Add avocado slices for creaminess or a fried egg for extra richness. These additions can transform a classic BLT into a more substantial meal.
• Serving Immediately: For the best eating experience, serve the BLT immediately after assembly to enjoy the contrast of warm bacon and cool, crisp lettuce and tomato.

By following these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Air Fryer BLT is not just a sandwich but a memorable meal, showcasing the delightful interplay of textures and flavors that make the BLT a perennial favorite.

Pro Tips

How do I prevent the bacon from curling up in the air fryer? To prevent bacon from curling, you can place a metal rack or trivet over the bacon strips to keep them flat during cooking. Alternatively, cut the bacon strips in half to fit them better in the air fryer basket and reduce curling.

Can I cook the bacon and toast the bread in the air fryer at the same time? Yes, you can cook both simultaneously if your air fryer is large enough to accommodate the bacon and bread without overcrowding. However, for optimal results, it’s recommended to cook them separately to ensure the bread doesn’t absorb bacon grease and becomes too crispy or burnt.

How do I make my BLT healthier? To make a healthier BLT, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork bacon, opting for whole grain or whole wheat bread, and adding more vegetables like avocado or spinach. Using a light or reduced-fat mayonnaise can also reduce calories.

What’s the best way to assemble a BLT to keep it from getting soggy? To prevent a soggy BLT, start by spreading mayonnaise on the toasted bread to create a barrier. Layer the lettuce next, followed by the tomato, and then the bacon. The lettuce acts as a shield, keeping the bread from becoming moist from the tomato.

Can I add other ingredients to my Air Fryer BLT? Absolutely! Feel free to customize your BLT with additional ingredients like avocado, cheese, fried egg, or different types of lettuce. Experimenting with various spreads, such as pesto or aioli, can also add new flavors to your sandwich.

How long does bacon take to cook in the air fryer? Cooking time for bacon in the air fryer can vary depending on its thickness and your preferred level of crispiness. Typically, it takes about 7-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but it’s a good idea to start checking around the 5-minute mark.

How do I store leftovers from my Air Fryer BLT? BLTs are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the components separately in the refrigerator. Reassemble and briefly warm in the air fryer or oven to refresh the bacon and toast the bread before eating.

Can I make a vegetarian or vegan BLT in the air fryer? Yes, for a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative or crispy tempeh. Vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free cheese slices can also replace traditional mayonnaise and cheese for a vegan BLT.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer for making BLTs? Preheating the air fryer helps to cook the bacon evenly and achieve a consistent texture. While not all recipes require preheating, doing so can enhance the overall result of your BLT.

Can I use a different type of bread for my BLT? Definitely! While white bread is traditional, feel free to use any type of bread you prefer, such as whole

Serving Suggestions

A BLT goes with almost anything; of course, there are the old stand-bys of pickles and chips, but here are some other great suggestions:

• Potato Salad
• Macaroni & Cheese (My Kid’s Favorite Combination)
• Tomato Soup
• Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
• Air Fryer Carrot Chips
• Homemade Air Fryer Sweet Potato Chips

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER GRILLED CHEESE PIZZA SANDWICHES
• AIR FRYER PATTY MELT
• EASY AIR FRYER FRENCH ONION GRILLED CHEESE
• AIR FRYER THE BEST PEPPERONI CALZONE
• AIR FRYER FLUFFERNUTTER SANDWICH

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