Air Fryer Southern-Style Fried Green Tomato BLT
A delicious Southern-inspired BLT featuring crispy air fryer fried green tomatoes, smoky bacon, crisp lettuce, and creamy mayo on toasted bread. This sandwich combines classic flavors with healthier air frying for a perfect lunchtime treat.
Ingredients
Check ingredients as you go.
- Tomato Coating
- Sandwich
Let’s make it
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Tomato Coating
Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, the second with beaten egg mixed with buttermilk, and the third with cornmeal seasoned with remaining salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Tomato Coating
Dip each tomato slice first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the cornmeal mixture. Set aside on a plate.
Cooking
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated tomato slices in a single layer not touching each other.
Cooking
Air fry the tomatoes at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Bacon
While tomatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon slices until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Sandwich Assembly
Optional: Spread butter on bread slices and toast in a skillet until golden, about 2 minutes per side.
Sandwich Assembly
Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on two slices of toasted bread. Layer lettuce leaves, crispy bacon, and air-fried green tomato slices. Top with remaining bread slices.
Serving
Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your air fryer Southern-style fried green tomato BLT!
Tips & notes
For best results, use firm, unripe green tomatoes and ensure the tomato slices are not too thick to get crispy coated crust. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket to maintain crispiness. If preferred, add a slice of cheese or a dash of hot sauce to the sandwich for extra flavor.
Saving it for later
Store leftover cooked green tomatoes, bacon, and sandwich components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not assemble sandwiches in advance to avoid sogginess.
Reheating
Reheat fried green tomatoes in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness. Reheat bacon in a skillet or microwave until warm. Assemble freshly before serving.
