Craving a fresh twist on a classic sandwich? Our Panera Turkey Avocado BLT recipe brings together the perfect balance of smoky bacon, creamy avocado, and tender turkey for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home. Inspired by Panera’s popular menu item, this sandwich delivers bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in every bite.
We love how the ripe avocado adds a smooth texture while the crispy bacon provides a savory crunch. Layered with juicy tomato and crisp lettuce on toasted bread this sandwich is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Let’s dive into making this delicious Panera-inspired Turkey Avocado BLT that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Panera Turkey Avocado BLT, we need to gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that bring out the sandwich’s signature taste. Below is a detailed list broken down into key components for easy preparation.
Turkey and Bacon
- 6 oz sliced roasted turkey breast (preferably freshly sliced for tenderness)
- 4 slices thick-cut smoky bacon, cooked crispy
Bread and Avocado
- 2 slices of sourdough bread, toasted until golden brown
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and thinly sliced
Vegetables and Condiments
- 2 large leaves of crisp romaine lettuce, washed and dried
- 2 slices ripe tomato, about ¼ inch thick
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (we prefer light mayo for creaminess without heaviness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
| Ingredient Category | Items | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey and Bacon | Roasted turkey breast | 6 oz |
| Thick-cut smoky bacon | 4 slices | |
| Bread and Avocado | Sourdough bread | 2 slices |
| Ripe avocado | 1 whole | |
| Vegetables and Condiments | Romaine lettuce | 2 large leaves |
| Tomato slices | 2 slices | |
| Mayonnaise | 1 tablespoon | |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Pro Tip: For an authentic Panera Turkey Avocado BLT, choose high-quality smoked bacon and perfectly ripe avocado to balance the smoky and creamy notes.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Panera Turkey Avocado BLT, having the right equipment at hand ensures efficiency and precision. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools we need to assemble this flavorful sandwich flawlessly:
- Non-stick skillet
Ideal for cooking the bacon evenly to a crispy golden-brown texture without sticking.
- Sharp chef’s knife
Crucial for slicing the turkey breast, tomatoes, and avocado with precision and ease.
- Cutting board
Provides a clean surface for chopping ingredients safely.
- Toaster or grill pan
To toast the sourdough bread slices to a perfect crunchy base.
- Mixing bowl
Needed to combine and season the avocado if opting to mash it for extra creaminess.
- Spatula or tongs
Helpful for flipping bacon and managing ingredients without breaking.
- Measuring spoons
To measure the mayonnaise and seasoning accurately.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Non-stick skillet | Crisping the bacon uniformly |
| Sharp chef’s knife | Precisely slicing turkey, tomato, avocado |
| Cutting board | Safe and clean surface for cutting |
| Toaster or grill pan | Toasting sourdough bread slices |
| Mixing bowl | Mashing and seasoning avocado or mixing mayo |
| Spatula or tongs | Handling bacon and ingredients gently |
| Measuring spoons | Accurate measurement of mayo and seasonings |
Preparation
To make our Panera Turkey Avocado BLT truly shine, we need to focus on each component. Here’s how to prepare every element perfectly for maximum flavor and texture.
Preparing the Bacon
Start by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lay the 4 slices of thick-cut smoky bacon flat in the pan without overlapping. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown. Use tongs to flip the bacon carefully. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. This ensures the bacon remains crunchy without being greasy.
| Step | Action | Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | Medium heat | 1-2 minutes | Use non-stick skillet for even cooking |
| Cook bacon | Lay bacon slices in skillet | 4-5 minutes/side | Avoid crowding skillet to cook evenly |
| Drain bacon | Place on paper towels | Immediate | Retains crispiness |
Slicing the Avocado and Vegetables
Next, let’s handle our fresh ingredients. Take the ripe avocado and slice it in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the pit by gently whacking it with a knife and twisting. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh in one piece. Slice the avocado into thin, even slices for a creamy texture that spreads nicely across the bread.
For the tomato, choose two slices that are ripe but firm to avoid sogginess. Slice them evenly, about a quarter-inch thick. Rinse the 2 large romaine lettuce leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This crispness balances the smooth avocado and juicy tomato perfectly.
Remember:
“Using a perfectly ripe avocado with smooth flesh is key to achieving that signature creamy layer in our sandwich.”
Toasting the Bread
To complete the base, toast the 2 slices of sourdough bread until golden brown and crisp. You can use a toaster or a grill pan preheated over medium heat. Toasting the bread adds crunch and prevents sogginess from the avocado and tomato.
If using a grill pan, brush the bread lightly with olive oil for extra flavor and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the bread is crunchy.
| Method | Description | Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toaster | Use standard toaster | 3-4 minutes | Aim for golden brown, not burnt |
| Grill Pan | Preheat pan, brush bread with oil | 2-3 minutes/side | Adds smoky flavor and texture |
Once toasted, spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise evenly on one side of each bread slice. This will act as the delicious binder for our layers to come.
Directions
Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to assemble our Panera Turkey Avocado BLT perfectly. Let’s bring all the flavorful ingredients together into one irresistible sandwich.
Assembling the BLT
- Start with the toasted sourdough bread. Lay the two slices flat on your clean cutting board.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise evenly across one side of each slice. This adds creaminess and helps everything stick.
- Layer 6 oz of sliced roasted turkey breast on one slice. Arrange the turkey evenly to cover the bread without overcrowding.
- Place 4 slices of thick-cut smoky bacon directly on top of the turkey. Make sure the bacon is hot and crispy for the ideal crunch.
- Add 2 large leaves of romaine lettuce over the bacon. The crispness balances the textures perfectly.
- Layer 2 slices of ripe tomato on the lettuce. Lightly season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the tomato’s flavor.
- Top with sliced avocado from 1 ripe avocado. Spread the avocado slices evenly to cover the tomato layer.
Pro tip: Use a sharp chef’s knife when slicing avocado and tomato to achieve clean cuts that keep the sandwich neat.
Final Touches
- Close the sandwich by placing the second slice of sourdough, mayonnaise side down, on top of the avocado.
- Press lightly but firmly to compact the layers just enough to hold everything together without squeezing out the fillings.
- Slice the sandwich diagonally with a sharp knife. This creates two perfect halves with a beautiful cross-section of vivid colors and textures.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture contrast. Pair it with a side salad or your favorite chips.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Toasted sourdough bread | 2 slices | Base of the sandwich |
| Mayonnaise | 1 tablespoon | Moisture and flavor bind |
| Roasted turkey breast | 6 oz | Protein layer |
| Thick-cut smoky bacon | 4 slices | Crunch and smoky flavor |
| Romaine lettuce leaves | 2 large leaves | Fresh crispness |
| Ripe tomato slices | 2 slices | Juicy sweetness |
| Ripe avocado | 1 | Creamy texture |
“The key to a great BLT lies in balancing the bold smoky bacon with the mellow creamy avocado and the fresh crisp vegetables.” Following these steps ensures every bite delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in our Panera Turkey Avocado BLT.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Panera Turkey Avocado BLT experience, we recommend pairing it with light, refreshing sides that complement the sandwich’s rich and smoky flavors. Here are some perfect serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- Crisp Garden Salad: Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette. The fresh crunch balances the creamy avocado and smoky bacon perfectly.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Oven-baked sweet potato fries add a subtle sweetness and delightful crispness that contrasts beautifully with the sandwich’s savory layers.
- Seasoned Potato Chips: Choose kettle-cooked or lightly seasoned chips for an added crunch and salty accent without overpowering the flavors.
- Soup Pairing: A bowl of classic tomato basil soup or creamy butternut squash soup creates a comforting combination with our hearty sandwich.
Beverage Pairings
For drinks, we suggest:
| Beverage | Reason for Pairing |
|---|---|
| Iced Green Tea | Light and refreshing, it cuts through richness |
| Sparkling Water | Clean palate cleanser with a touch of fizz |
| Fresh Lemonade | Adds a citrusy zest to brighten the meal |
Presentation Tips
- Serve the sandwich sliced diagonally to showcase the colorful layers of turkey, bacon, and avocado.
- Use a sharp chef’s knife to maintain clean edges and prevent squashing the ingredients.
- Add a sprig of fresh herb like basil or parsley on the plate for an aesthetic touch and subtle aroma.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain the crispiness of the bacon and toast, consider reheating the turkey and avocado separately, then reassemble before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the Panera Turkey Avocado BLT in advance allows us to enjoy this delicious sandwich quickly without sacrificing freshness and flavor. Here are our best tips to make-ahead with ease:
1. Cook Bacon in Advance
Cook the smoky bacon until crisp using a non-stick skillet. Once cooled, place strips in an airtight container lined with paper towels. This prevents sogginess and keeps bacon crispy. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
2. Slice and Store Turkey
Keep sliced roasted turkey breast fresh by storing it in a sealed container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing sliced turkey to maintain texture.
3. Prep Vegetables Separately
- Slice the tomato and romaine lettuce just before assembling to avoid limpness or juice leakage. If you prefer, dice tomatoes and store separately in a small container for 1 day maximum.
- For the avocado, do not slice until ready to assemble to prevent browning. Alternatively, scoop avocado flesh into a small bowl, squeeze fresh lemon juice over it, and cover tightly with plastic wrap to store for up to 12 hours.
4. Toast Bread Just Before Serving
For the best crunch, toast the sourdough bread slices right before assembly. If you need to prep early, keep bread slices at room temperature wrapped in parchment paper but avoid toasting too far ahead.
5. Assemble at Serving Time
To preserve texture and flavor balance:
- Spread mayonnaise on toasted bread slices.
- Layer turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado.
Assembling last minute ensures the sandwich layers stay crisp and the creamy avocado does not become mushy.
Make-Ahead Ingredient Storage Guide
| Ingredient | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Bacon | Airtight container, paper towels | 3 days refrigerated |
| Sliced Turkey Breast | Sealed container or wrapped | 4 days refrigerated |
| Tomato Slices | Separate container | 1 day refrigerated |
| Romaine Lettuce | Wrapped, moisture-controlled | 1 day refrigerated |
| Avocado (prepared) | Covered with lemon juice, airtight | 12 hours refrigerated |
| Sourdough Bread | Wrapped, room temperature | Same day preferred |
“Preparing components ahead saves time but assembling the Panera Turkey Avocado BLT fresh ensures every bite delivers that perfect harmony of bold, smoky bacon and creamy avocado.”
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our sandwich maintains its signature textures and flavors with minimal effort when it’s time to eat.
Conclusion
This Panera Turkey Avocado BLT recipe brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients in a way that’s simple yet satisfying. With just a few key steps and quality components, we can create a sandwich that’s perfect for any meal.
Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, this recipe delivers a delicious balance of smoky, creamy, and crisp textures. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic favorite with a fresh twist right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make the Panera Turkey Avocado BLT?
You’ll need sliced roasted turkey breast, thick-cut smoky bacon, toasted sourdough bread, ripe avocado, romaine lettuce, ripe tomato, mayonnaise, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
How do I cook the bacon for this sandwich?
Cook the bacon in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain excess fat on paper towels before assembling for the best texture.
Can I prepare the Panera Turkey Avocado BLT in advance?
Yes, cook bacon and slice turkey ahead of time, but keep vegetables separate. Toast the bread and assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep it fresh.
What equipment is needed to make this sandwich?
You’ll need a non-stick skillet, sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, toaster or grill pan, mixing bowl, spatula or tongs, and measuring spoons.
How do I assemble the Panera Turkey Avocado BLT?
Spread mayonnaise on toasted sourdough, then layer turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado. Close, press lightly, and slice diagonally for best presentation.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this sandwich?
Pair the sandwich with a crisp garden salad, sweet potato fries, seasoned potato chips, or comforting soup like tomato basil.
How should I store leftovers to maintain freshness?
Wrap leftovers tightly. Reheat bacon and turkey separately to keep bacon crispy, then reassemble the sandwich before eating.
What makes this Turkey Avocado BLT different from a regular BLT?
This sandwich adds tender turkey and creamy avocado to the classic smoky bacon, lettuce, and tomato, delivering richer flavor and texture.
Any tips for choosing the best avocado?
Choose an avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure and has a dark, even skin to ensure creaminess and flavor.
Why is it important to toast the sourdough bread?
Toasting the sourdough adds crunch and prevents the bread from becoming soggy, balancing nicely with creamy avocado and juicy tomato.