Nothing says Southern comfort like a Fried Green Tomato BLT. This twist on the classic BLT sandwich brings the tangy, crispy fried green tomato to the forefront, layered with crisp lettuce, savory bacon, and creamy aioli, all sandwiched between toasted bread. Perfect for lunch, brunch, or a casual dinner, this recipe combines textures and flavors that are irresistible.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Southern cuisine or trying fried green tomatoes for the first time, this recipe will guide you to perfectly golden, flavorful sandwiches every time.

Ingredients

Fried Green Tomatoes:
- 4 medium green tomatoes, sliced 1/2 inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
BLT Assembly:
- 8 slices sandwich bread (your choice: white, sourdough, or whole wheat)
- 8 slices cooked bacon
- 1 cup lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce recommended)
- 1/4 cup aioli or mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for a tangy kick)

Instructions

Prepare Fried Green Tomatoes:
- Slice green tomatoes and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika.
- Coat each tomato slice in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Fry Tomatoes:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry tomato slices in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Toast Bread:
- Lightly toast bread slices in a skillet or toaster until golden brown.
Prepare BLT Layers:
- Spread aioli (and Dijon if using) on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer lettuce leaves, crispy bacon, and fried green tomatoes evenly across slices.
Assemble Sandwich:
- Top with another slice of bread, aioli side down.
- Press gently and slice in half diagonally for a classic presentation.
Serve Immediately:
- Enjoy while the fried green tomatoes are still warm and the bacon is crisp.

Tips for the Perfect Fried Green Tomato BLT

Choose Firm Tomatoes: Slightly underripe green tomatoes hold their shape and crisp up nicely during frying.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the fried tomatoes extra crunch and a light, airy texture.
Oil Temperature: Maintain medium heat to ensure the breadcrumbs don’t burn while the tomatoes cook through.
Make Ahead: Bacon can be cooked ahead of time. Store fried green tomatoes in a warm oven for up to 15 minutes if assembling multiple sandwiches.
Aioli Upgrade: Try garlic or herb aioli for extra flavor depth.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne to the panko or aioli.
Vegan Version: Replace bacon with smoked tempeh and use plant-based mayo.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs, with your favorite GF bread.
Cheese Lover’s: Add a slice of sharp cheddar or pepper jack to the sandwich.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic, especially popular in the Appalachian and Deep South regions of the U.S. The concept dates back to early Southern cooks who would fry unripe tomatoes to make use of their garden harvest before the first frost. Today, they are celebrated in dishes ranging from appetizers to sandwiches like this BLT twist.

Layering these crispy tomatoes in a sandwich with bacon and lettuce elevates the traditional BLT with a tangy crunch and vibrant color. Perfect for backyard gatherings, brunches, or even a picnic treat, this sandwich is as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with sweet potato fries or kettle chips for a classic Southern-style meal.
Serve with a light citrus salad or coleslaw to balance richness.
Drizzle a little hot sauce or balsamic reduction on the tomatoes for a gourmet touch.

Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Fry green tomatoes and store in a single layer in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
Assemble Just Before Eating: Bread can become soggy if assembled too early.