BLT Crostini

This simple BLT crostini appetizer combines crispy toasted French baguette slices with a creamy, cheesy bacon topping, finished with fresh lettuce shreds and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for parties or a light snack, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress.

Chef’s Tips

• Prevent Soggy Bread: Add the fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato just before serving.
• Customize the Cheese: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack, cheddar, or gouda for different flavors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the toasts up to three days ahead and store in an airtight container.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy base to the topping.
• ½ cup Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded: Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
• 1–2.5 oz Package Bacon Pieces: Provides a savory, smoky crunch.
• 24 slices French Baguette: Thinly sliced (¼ inch) for a perfect base.
• ¼ cup Romaine Lettuce, Shredded: Adds freshness and crunch.
• 8 Cherry Tomatoes, Sliced into Thirds: Brings a sweet, juicy element.

Substitutions

• Baguette: Use sourdough or ciabatta bread for a different texture.
• Mayonnaise: Swap with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a lighter option.
• Bacon Pieces: Substitute with turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the baguette into 24 thin pieces (¼ inch) and arrange them on a baking sheet. Optionally, line the sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and bacon pieces. Stir until well blended.
4. Spread a generous amount of the mixture onto each slice of bread.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
6. While the bread bakes, finely shred the romaine lettuce and slice the cherry tomatoes into thirds.
7. Remove the crostini from the oven and top each slice with a couple of lettuce shreds and one tomato slice.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Make Ahead

• Toast the bread slices and prepare the topping mixture in advance. Store the toasted bread in an airtight container and refrigerate the topping until ready to use.

Variations

• Add Avocado: Top with a small avocado slice for added creaminess.
• Spicy Twist: Drizzle with sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne to the topping mixture.
• Fried Egg: Add a small quail egg on top for a brunch-inspired crostini.

FAQs

This BLT crostini recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines classic flavors with a fun and elegant presentation. Perfect for any occasion!

More Tasty Appetizers

• Roasted Cherry Tomato and Burrata Bruschetta
• Loaded Mini Baked Potato Bites
• Spinach Artichoke Bites