How Do You Make Twice Smoked Bacon BLT Sliders?
Short answer: Create bacon weaves, season and smoke them at 300°F until crisp, prepare a tangy mayo dressing, toast slider buns, then layer bacon, seasoned tomatoes, and dressed lettuce for bold, smoky BLT sliders.
These sliders upgrade the classic BLT by using thick-cut bacon that’s smoked for deeper flavor and formed into a weave so every bite stays intact.
What Makes “Twice Smoked” Bacon Different?
Definition: Twice smoked bacon refers to bacon that is already commercially smoked, then smoked again at home for intensified flavor and texture.
Why it works:
- Most store-bought bacon is pre-smoked during curing.
- Smoking it again at 300°F renders more fat and builds a stronger wood-fired flavor.
- The result is crispier, richer bacon that becomes the star of the sandwich.
The bacon weave format ensures even coverage and prevents strips from sliding out.
Ingredients (Makes 12 Sliders)
For the Bacon Weaves
- 2 pounds thick-cut bacon
- 1–2 tablespoons BBQ rub (sweet, smoky, or pepper-forward)
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or full-fat preferred)
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian rolls or soft slider buns
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Salt and black pepper (for tomatoes)
- 2 cups shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. How Do You Make a Bacon Weave?
Direct answer: Lay half the bacon vertically, fold alternating strips back, weave horizontal strips across, and repeat until tight.
Steps:
- Lay 6–8 strips vertically on a cutting board.
- Fold back every other strip halfway.
- Place one strip horizontally across.
- Fold strips back down.
- Repeat until a tight square forms.
Make two weaves. Sprinkle both sides evenly with BBQ rub.
Why this matters: The weave cooks evenly and gives full bacon coverage per slider.
2. How Long Do You Smoke the Bacon?
Direct answer: Smoke at 300°F for about 1 hour, or until deep golden and crisp.
- Preheat smoker to 300°F.
- Place weaves directly on grates.
- Smoke 45–60 minutes.
- Remove when fully rendered and crisp but not brittle.
Internal temperature is less important than texture—look for firm, caramelized edges.
3. How Do You Make the Tangy BLT Dressing?
Direct answer: Whisk mayo, vinegar, Worcestershire, oregano, and pepper until smooth.
The balance:
- Mayo = creamy base
- Red wine vinegar = acidity
- Worcestershire = umami depth
- Oregano = herbaceous note
Taste and adjust with additional pepper if desired.
This dressing lightly coats the lettuce and prevents dry sliders.
4. How Should You Prep the Tomatoes?
Direct answer: Slice evenly and lightly salt them.
- Slice tomatoes about ¼-inch thick.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Pat dry with paper towels before assembling to prevent soggy buns.
5. Why Toast the Slider Buns?
Direct answer: Toasting strengthens the bread and improves texture.
- Slice rolls horizontally (keep connected if desired).
- Toast at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden.
This creates structure and prevents soaking from dressing or tomato juices.
How to Assemble Twice Smoked BLT Sliders
Follow this order for best structure:
- Spread dressing on bottom buns.
- Place one bacon weave on top (trim to fit).
- Add seasoned tomato slices evenly.
- Layer second bacon weave for double bacon impact.
- Toss lettuce lightly with dressing and add on top.
- Cap with top buns and press gently.
Slice into individual sliders using a sharp knife.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Kettle chips
They work as:
- Game day food
- Party appetizers
- Casual weekend dinners
Tips for Best Results
- Use thick-cut bacon for structure and better texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the smoker—airflow improves crisping.
- Keep tomatoes dry before layering.
- Let bacon cool slightly before assembling to maintain crispness.
Optional flavor upgrades:
- Add smoked paprika to the rub.
- Mix a small spoonful of Dijon into the dressing.
- Add sliced avocado for richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without a smoker?
Yes. Bake the bacon weave on a wire rack at 400°F for 25–35 minutes until crisp.
Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes. Smoke bacon and prepare dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble just before serving.
What’s the best lettuce for sliders?
Shredded iceberg provides crunch; romaine offers more structure and flavor.
How do I keep sliders from getting soggy?
Toast buns, salt and pat dry tomatoes, and assemble shortly before serving.
Key Takeaways
- Twice smoked bacon means smoking already cured bacon again for deeper flavor.
- Use a bacon weave for even distribution and cleaner slicing.
- Smoke at 300°F for about 1 hour until crisp.
- Toast buns to prevent sogginess.
- Layer strategically for structure and balance.
Twice Smoked Bacon BLT Sliders transform a simple sandwich into a smoky, flavor-packed centerpiece. With crisp bacon, tangy dressing, and fresh toppings on toasted rolls, this recipe delivers bold texture and reliable results for gatherings or indulgent meals at home.
