Simplicity is wonderful with any meal but something I particularly strive for when entertaining. Hosting involves a certain degree of overextending oneself as it is, so over-the-top food prep is not usually on the menu. Especially during the summertime. It's too hot for all that fuss. Allow me to introduce you to an epic shareable BLT sub sandwich that will become your go-to for summer gatherings. It packs up perfectly for picnics or anything outdoors but you don't need a specific occasion to make it--just a few hungry friends that love a good ol' BLT sandwich.
What Goes in a Good BLT Sandwich?
I mentioned recently that I only started eating tomatoes (used to REALLY dislike them) at the beginning of this year. Despite my nearly lifelong aversion, I am quite familiar with the makings of a good BLT. My mother was a big fan of BLT sandwiches and schooled me on the elements so that I could make them for her. 🙂 You'll need a juicy ripe tomato, crisp romaine lettuce, crispy bacon, buttery white bread, mayo, sea salt, and a little black pepper. For this shareable BLT sub sandwich, specifically, we'll use a loaf of crusty French bread that you can find in the bakery section of your local grocery store, thick tomato slices, and applewood bacon.
How to Properly Stack a BLT Sandwich
Since French bread is thicker than your standard slice of say, Texas Toast, you'll want to load up this epic shareable BLT sub sandwich with multiple slices of bacon, tomato, and lettuce to make sure each bite captures all the right flavors. It's also important to layer your ingredients in a specific order for maximum tastiness. What order, you say? Keep reading, boo. To keep the sandwich from sliding around, I recommend you start by slathering your mayo on the bottom slice of bread. Next add the tomato. The mayo will act as a barrier that keeps the tomato juices from making the bread soggy, by the way. Next up, pile on the bacon then lettuce. Finish the satck with your remaining bread slice et voila! That's the perfect BLT stacking order. You're welcome. 🙂
I first shared this BLT sub sandwich in a picnic party setup last summer. If you want to make a complete spread, I recommend you add classic potato salad, and some margarita-infused watermelon. That will make it a real party. As always, thanks for reading!
How To Make An Epic Shareable BLT Sub Sandwich

How to turn the classic BLT sandwich into a giant crowd favorite
- 1 loaf French bread
- 1 large tomato cut into ½-1 inch thick slices
- 5 leaves romaine lettuce
- 12 ounces applewood smoked bacon you can use up to 1 pound
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- sea salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Arrange bacon slices on a cookie sheet or other shallow baking pan and place in oven. Bake for about eight minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Meanwhile, slice French bread loaf in half, lengthwise, in order to create top and bottom pieces for the sandwich.
Spread softened butter on the inside of each bread piece then place directly on oven rack, buttered side up. Bake for about six minutes or until golden brown. (Check at halfway point so that it doesn't burn!) Allow bread to cool for a few minutes before handling.
To assemble sandwich: spread mayo on bottom piece of bread then sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Arrange tomato slices in a single layer on top this, followed by bacon then lettuce. Lastly, top sandwich with remaining piece of bread.
You can either slice sandwich into individual portions at this point or allow each person to cut their own sandwich to size.
Tamara J. says
I love the ideas and tips on how to stack the BLT so the bread doesn’t get soggy!
Brittany Fiero says
You can't beat a good classic sandwich like this! BLT's are so delicious and easy to make. I want one now.
Renia says
Shareable? No way I'm sharing this delicious sammi.
LaKita says
This recipe definitely makes me want a BLT! I love that you gave suggestions on how to layer the ingredients. I would have just piled everything on there.
SHANIKA says
This BLT Sandwich looks so good! It's a huge thing here in NYC and this recipe would do good in my house!
Mila Clarke Buckley says
You must know there's a special place in my heart for a good BLT. I'm trying your method!
Katrina Adams says
Perfect summer sandwich!!! I have never tasted a BLT because I don’t eat tomatoes but this makes me want to try one!
Aline says
I LOVE BLT sandwiches but somehow never tried to make them haha you just inspired me!! Thanks!! xx