The Official Five Guys BLT Bacon Count
Five Guys is known for its high-quality, made-to-order menu and generous toppings, and the BLT is no exception. The official recipe calls for a specific number of bacon strips to ensure a perfect flavor ratio. A standard Five Guys BLT contains precisely six strips of smoked bacon. This attention to detail is part of the 'Five Guys way' of making sandwiches, which prioritizes a consistent and delicious final product for every customer.
Why the Fixed Bacon Quantity Matters
Unlike many fast-food chains that might use a variable or smaller number of bacon pieces, Five Guys' commitment to a fixed count sets it apart. The six strips of crispy, Applewood smoked bacon are a deliberate choice, intended to balance the sandwich's other components—the fresh tomato slices, shredded lettuce, and creamy mayo. This isn't just a detail for the sake of it; it's a critical part of the sandwich's construction, ensuring that the smoky, savory flavor of the bacon is present in every bite. This philosophy extends to other fixed toppings, like the two slices of tomato.
The BLT Assembly Process
When you order a BLT at Five Guys, a specific process is followed to construct your sandwich. The staff toast the sesame seed bun and grill the six strips of bacon until they are perfectly crispy. The sandwich is then assembled with the two fresh slices of tomato, mayo, and hand-torn lettuce. Some employees even break the strips in half to ensure even coverage across the sandwich. This methodical approach ensures that the sandwich is well-built and the ingredients are evenly distributed for optimal taste.
Customizing Your Five Guys BLT
While the standard BLT comes with a fixed number of bacon strips, Five Guys is famous for its customizable menu. The "you choose the toppings" philosophy applies to many items, allowing for a personalized meal. While the initial six strips are standard, you can always ask for additional bacon if you're a true bacon enthusiast. For no extra charge, customers can load up on other toppings to enhance their sandwich experience.
Common Customizations
- Add cheese: Melted American-style cheese can be added for a gooey, savory upgrade.
- Extra toppings: Feel free to add complimentary toppings like grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, or jalapeños to create a unique flavor profile.
- Grilled Cheese BLT: A popular "secret menu" hack is to order a grilled cheese with bacon, lettuce, and tomato. This creates a sandwich with a buttery bun and melted cheese as the base.
- Lettuce wrap: For a lower-carb option, you can request your BLT to be served in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun.
Standard BLT vs. Bacon Burger Comparison
To highlight the generous portion of bacon on the BLT, it's helpful to compare it to Five Guys' other bacon-centric menu items. The BLT stands out with its single-focus ingredient, while the bacon burgers use bacon as an accent to the beef patty.
| Feature | Five Guys BLT | Five Guys Bacon Burger | Five Guys Little Bacon Burger |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacon Quantity | Six strips | Multiple strips layered on top of patties | Strips on top of a single patty |
| Main Protein | Bacon | Two beef patties | Single beef patty |
| Core Ingredients | Bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo | Beef patties, cheese (optional), toppings | Single beef patty, cheese (optional), toppings |
| Primary Focus | The rich flavor of the crispy bacon | The combination of a beef patty and bacon | A smaller portion of the standard bacon burger |
| Customization | Standard recipe, but can add toppings | Extensive free toppings available | Extensive free toppings available |
Conclusion: A Bacon-Lover's Delight
So, how many strips of bacon go on the BLT Five Guys? The official number is six. This fixed quantity is a hallmark of Five Guys' quality and commitment to a satisfying, consistent sandwich. For bacon enthusiasts, this generous portion is what makes their BLT a standout item on the menu. While some might think of the BLT as a simple sandwich, Five Guys elevates it with a significant amount of high-quality, smoked bacon, creating a memorable meal every time.
If you're looking for a hearty, bacon-forward sandwich that doesn't skimp on flavor, the Five Guys BLT is an excellent choice. Its fixed recipe ensures a reliable experience, but the available free toppings still allow for a personal touch. The six-strip standard is a testament to the brand's philosophy of offering a premium fast-food experience centered on fresh ingredients and generous portions.
Additional Five Guys Insights
For more information on Five Guys' menu and nutritional details, you can visit their official website for comprehensive guides and ingredient information.
The Six-Strip Standard
The specific use of six bacon strips on the BLT highlights Five Guys' dedication to a quality-controlled recipe. This differs from many competitors and ensures a premium, bacon-centric experience for customers.
Five Guys BLT Ingredient Checklist
- Six whole strips of crispy, Applewood smoked bacon
- Two fresh tomato slices
- Hand-shredded lettuce
- A generous layer of mayonnaise
- A soft, toasted sesame seed bun
This precise combination is what creates the iconic Five Guys BLT flavor. The fixed number of bacon strips guarantees that each bite is packed with the smoky, salty taste that customers love.
