The Big House BLT from Alamo Drafthouse features crispy applewood-smoked bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes layered between toasted artisan bread, delivering a classic, hearty sandwich with a satisfying crunch and bold flavors.
Equipments
- Frying pan or skillet
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster or grill pan
- Plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) applewood-smoked bacon
- 4 slices artisan bread
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 4 leaves fresh lettuce
- Mayonnaise (optional)
- Salt (optional)
- Black pepper (optional)
Using applewood-smoked bacon is key to replicating the Big House BLT's distinctive smoky flavor, so choose thick-cut slices for a better crunch. Fresh, large ripe tomatoes and crisp lettuce leaves provide essential freshness and texture, making them important to source at peak ripeness. Toasting artisan bread enhances the sandwich's structure and adds a satisfying crunch that complements the rich bacon. Seasoning with salt, black pepper, and optional mayonnaise can be adjusted based on your taste preferences to balance flavors. Your efforts will bring the bold, hearty flavor of the Big House BLT from Alamo Drafthouse straight to your copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Lay bacon strips in pan without overlapping.
- Cook bacon until crispy, turning with tongs as needed.
- Transfer cooked bacon to plate lined with paper towel; set aside.
- Slice tomatoes into thick rounds using knife and cutting board.
- Wash and dry lettuce leaves.
- Toast bread slices in toaster or grill pan until golden brown.
- (Optional) Spread mayonnaise on one side of each toasted bread slice.
- Layer lettuce, tomato slices, and crispy bacon on two bread slices.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper on tomatoes, if desired.
- Top with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
- Cut sandwiches in half, if desired, and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Big House BLT from Alamo Drafthouse copycat menu offers a crispy, smoky bacon and fresh vegetable combination on toasted artisan bread that you can recreate at home. If applewood-smoked bacon is unavailable, use any thick-cut smoked bacon to maintain that rich flavor profile. Consider substituting artisan bread with sourdough or ciabatta for a similarly robust texture. You can toast the bread in a skillet or grill pan if a toaster is not accessible. Lettuce and tomatoes should be fresh for optimal taste, but in a pinch, iceberg lettuce or vine-ripened tomatoes work well too.
Tips
When cooking the bacon, make sure the strips do not overlap in the pan to ensure even crisping. Use tongs to carefully turn the bacon for consistent cooking and avoid burning. Let the bacon drain on paper towels to remove excess grease, keeping your sandwich from becoming soggy. Toast your artisan bread just until golden brown for a perfect crunch that complements the fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes, enhancing your Big House BLT experience.
Nutritions
The Big House BLT provides a good source of protein and essential fats from applewood-smoked bacon, contributing to muscle maintenance and energy. Fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes add dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that support immune health and digestion. Artisan bread supplies carbohydrates for sustained energy, with optional mayonnaise contributing calories and fats. Your sandwich offers a balanced mix of macronutrients along with micronutrients for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Storage
Store your Big House BLT in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, preferably consuming it within 24 hours to preserve the crispness of the applewood-smoked bacon and toasted artisan bread. To prevent sogginess, keep the tomatoes and lettuce separate if preparing in advance, assembling the sandwich just before eating. Reheat bacon gently in a skillet before serving to restore its crispy texture without overcooking.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute applewood-smoked bacon with turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative for a lighter or plant-based version of The Big House BLT. Instead of artisan bread, try using sourdough or rye to add a tangy twist and different texture. For extra flavor, consider adding avocado slices or swapping mayonnaise for a garlic aioli spread. Toasting the bread on a grill pan can impart a subtle smoky note and appealing grill marks that enhance presentation.
Allergies
The Big House BLT contains common allergens such as wheat from the artisan bread and potential egg-based ingredients in mayonnaise. Your sensitivity to pork should be considered due to the applewood-smoked bacon. Cross-contamination risks may exist if the sandwich is prepared in a shared kitchen environment.
Why this recipe?
The Big House BLT from Alamo Drafthouse is renowned for its crispy applewood-smoked bacon, fresh heirloom tomatoes, and perfectly toasted artisanal sourdough bread, creating a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. People appreciate its generous portion size and the use of high-quality ingredients that elevate a classic BLT to an indulgent experience. The combination of creamy house-made aioli and crisp lettuce adds refreshing complexity, making it a standout item on the menu. Crafting your own copycat version allows you to enjoy this gourmet sandwich at home, customizing ingredients to match your taste preferences while capturing the essence of Alamo Drafthouse's signature dish.