BLT Bites

This BLT bites recipe puts a fun twist on the beloved sandwich by stuffing cherry tomatoes with a luscious blend of mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, Parmesan, green onion and parsley. The filling comes together in minutes, and while hollowing out the tiny tomatoes takes some patience, the result is well worth the effort. These colorful BLT tomato bites look darling as part of a party appetizers spread, and they deliver an irresistible mix of creamy, salty and fresh flavors.

Ingredients for BLT Bites

• Cherry tomatoes: These juicy little gems offer natural sweetness in every bite. Choose firm, ripe cherry tomatoes, which are round and perfect for filling—not to be confused with grape tomatoes, which have an oblong shape that’s harder to scoop and fill. Try cocktail or Campari tomatoes instead for a slightly larger, two-bite appetizer.
• Bacon: The filling gets smoky, salty flavor from a full pound of cooked and crumbled bacon. For easy cleanup and evenly cooked strips, bake bacon on a sheet pan in a 400℉ oven for 15 to 20 minutes, then drain it on paper towels.
• Mayonnaise: Store‑bought mayo is quick and convenient, but homemade mayonnaise can elevate the filling with a fresher, tangier flavor that shines. Not a mayo person? Try swapping in Miracle Whip, sour cream or softened cream cheese.
• Green onions: With their mild bite, green onions add a crisp crunch and sharpness without overpowering the other flavors in these bite-sized appetizers. Slice them thinly so they mix easily into the creamy filling.
• Parmesan: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth that balances the richness of the mayo and thickens the filling. Use finely grated cheese for the best texture, not shredded cheese.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley stands in for lettuce in this BLT-inspired bite, adding brightness and fresh herby flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Prep the tomatoes

Cut a thin piece off the top of each tomato. Gently scoop and discard the pulp. Place the tomatoes upside down on a paper towel to drain while you prepare the filling.

Editor’s Tip: A small measuring spoon, serrated grapefruit spoon or melon baller can help you scoop out the pulp without damaging the exterior of the tomatoes.

Step 2: Make the filling

In a small bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, green onions, grated Parmesan, and parsley.

Editor’s Tip: Combine the ingredients in a food processor for a smoother, more evenly blended filling. Just stick to a few quick pulses to maintain some texture.

Step 3: Stuff then chill the tomatoes

Carefully spoon the filling into the hollowed-out tomatoes. Arrange the BLT stuffed cherry tomatoes on a plate or tray, then refrigerate them for several hours to let the flavors meld.

Recipe Variations

• Add avocado: Replace some or all of the mayo with mashed avocado for a creamy, buttery twist and heart-healthy fats. Avocado browns quickly once cut, so add a squeeze of lemon juice to help it keep its color until serving time.
• Switch up the herbs: Give your BLT bites a flavor twist by swapping fresh basil, cilantro or dill for the parsley.
• Adjust the seasoning: Stir in a bit of ranch seasoning for a creamy, tangy boost, or add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Make vegetarian BLT bites: Skip the bacon and add a pinch of smoked paprika and a handful of toasted, finely chopped walnuts to the filling for a bit of crunch.
• Turn it into a dip: Don’t have time to scoop individual tomatoes? Chop the cherry tomatoes and mix them into the filling to create a savory dip. Serve it chilled with crackers, chips or crostini.
• Super-size them: For heartier BLT tomato appetizers, substitute cherry tomatoes with a larger type of tomato, like plum tomatoes. Slice them lengthwise, scoop out the pulp and fill them. Keep in mind that you’ll need fewer tomatoes, and that more filling will go into each tomato.

How to Store BLT Bites

For the best flavor and texture, plan to serve the BLT bites the same day you make them. If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator.

How long do BLT stuffed cherry tomatoes last?

The stuffed tomatoes are refrigerated for several hours in the fridge before they’re served. The extra chill time gives the flavors a chance to develop. Leftovers should be eaten within 24 hours; any longer, and the tomatoes will start to soften and lose their fresh texture.

Can you make BLT bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can make BLT bites ahead of time. They taste better after a few hours in the fridge. If you’d like to make them more than a few hours ahead, cook the bacon and prepare the filling up to one day in advance. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to stuff the tomatoes. Then, hollow out the tomatoes and stuff them with the filling a few hours before serving. Store stuffed BLT bites in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve them.

BLT Bites Tips

What’s the best way to hollow out cherry tomatoes?

To hollow out the cherry tomatoes, use a serrated knife to slice a thin piece off the top of each one. Then, carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds. A small measuring spoon, melon baller or serrated grapefruit spoon can make it easier to scoop the insides without tearing the tomato.

Can I make BLT bites with turkey bacon or plant-based bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to regular bacon, and works well if you want to cut back on fat and calories. Plant-based bacon is an excellent option for a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture if you don’t eat meat.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you don’t like mayonnaise, you can substitute it with sour cream, plain Greek yogurt, whipped cream cheese or mashed avocado. You could also try replacing half of the mayo with one of these alternatives to make the filling thicker and less, well, mayonnaise-y.

Can you turn BLT bites into a dip?

Yes, you can easily turn this recipe into a BLT dip. Simply chop the tomatoes instead of hollowing them out, then mix them into the filling. Chill the dip and serve it with crackers, chips or veggie sticks.