Monster BLT Recipe (Ree Drummond–Inspired) — The Ultimate Overstuffed Bacon Sandwich

A BLT is one of the great American sandwiches, but when Ree Drummond calls something a Monster BLT, you know it’s going to be gloriously oversized, outrageously bacon-packed, and deeply satisfying. This recipe captures that same generous Pioneer Woman spirit—crispy bacon layered high, thick slices of ripe tomatoes, cool lettuce, and toasted bread sturdy enough to hold it all—but is written with updated techniques and elevated flavors for today’s home cook.

This long-form guide breaks down everything you need to build a truly unforgettable BLT, including pro tips, variations, serving ideas, and a full recipe schema for SEO.

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🥪 Intro: What Makes This BLT a “Monster”?

A traditional BLT is simple: bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo, bread. But a Monster BLT isn’t about subtlety—it’s about generosity:

• Extra-thick bacon cooked until perfectly crisp

• Oversized tomato slices for juiciness

• More layers of everything

• Toasted bread that stays crisp under the weight

Ree Drummond is known for hearty, family-style meals, and while this version is completely original, it celebrates that same joyfully abundant approach. The result is a sandwich that’s crunchy, juicy, smoky, and fresh in every bite—and big enough to serve as a full meal.

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🧾 Ingredients

For the Sandwich

• 12 slices thick-cut bacon

• 4 slices sturdy sandwich bread (Texas toast, sourdough, or country white)

• 2 large tomatoes, sliced ½-inch thick

• 6–8 crisp lettuce leaves (butter, iceberg, or romaine)

• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Mayo Spread

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 small garlic clove, finely grated

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Pinch of kosher salt

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Ree Drummond-Style Monster BLTs

1. Cook the Bacon

1. Heat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.

3. Arrange bacon slices in a single layer.

4. Bake 18–22 minutes, or until deeply crisp.

5. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.

Why this works: Oven bacon stays flat and evenly crisp—essential for stacking a tall BLT.

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2. Mix the Mayo

Combine mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, grated garlic, smoked paprika, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning.

This spread adds brightness and creaminess without overpowering the vegetables and bacon.

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3. Prep the Tomatoes and Lettuce

• Slice tomatoes into thick, juicy rounds.

• Season lightly with salt and pepper.

• Blot with a paper towel to prevent soggy bread.

• Wash and pat lettuce leaves completely dry.

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4. Toast the Bread

Toast the bread until golden and crisp. Optionally butter the warm slices for extra richness.

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5. Assemble the Monster BLT

1. Spread mayo generously on all slices of bread.

2. Add 3–4 lettuce leaves per sandwich.

3. Layer on thick tomato slices.

4. Add 6 slices of crisp bacon per sandwich for true “monster” size.

5. Top with the final bread slice, mayo side down.

Slice in half and serve immediately.

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💡 Expert Tips for the Best Monster BLT

Use thick-cut bacon

It holds its shape and adds crunch to every bite.

Dry your tomatoes

A quick blot dramatically improves sandwich structure.

Toast the bread well

A Monster BLT needs support—soft bread collapses.

Spread mayo from edge to edge

This prevents dryness and helps the sandwich hold together.

Use a serrated knife to cut

Keeps layers neat without squashing the ingredients.

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🔄 Variations

Avocado Monster BLT

Add sliced avocado for a richer, creamier version.

Spicy BLT

Stir hot sauce, chili crisp, or sriracha into the mayo.

Candied Bacon BLT

Sprinkle bacon with brown sugar and pepper before baking.

Breakfast Monster BLT

Top with a fried egg for extra indulgence.

Garden BLT

Include fresh basil or arugula for herby brightness.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair this oversized BLT with:

• Potato wedges or fries

• Classic coleslaw

• Pickles or pickle spears

• Fresh fruit or a small side salad

• Lemonade, sweet tea, or iced coffee

For gatherings, cut sandwiches into quarters and secure with toothpicks for a platter.

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🧊 Storage Tips

The BLT should be assembled just before eating, but components can be prepared ahead:

• Cooked bacon: Store up to 3 days; re-crisp in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

• Mayo spread: Lasts 1 week refrigerated.

• Lettuce: Keep washed and dried in an airtight container for 2–3 days.

• Tomatoes: Slice just before serving for best texture.

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📊 Optional Ingredient Table