If you’re a fan of indulgent comfort food, then The Elvis Sandwich is going to be your new obsession! This legendary sandwich is a true tribute to Elvis Presley, who was famously known for his love of peanut butter, bananas, and bacon. The combination of these ingredients on toasted bread creates a rich, flavorful sandwich that’s both sweet and savory—definitely a guilty pleasure.
This sandwich has a cult following due to its unexpected blend of flavors and textures. The creamy peanut butter, sweet banana, crispy bacon, and buttery bread come together in a deliciously messy masterpiece that’s perfect for a snack, a special treat, or even a fun twist on your typical sandwich routine. Let’s dive into how to make this indulgent creation!
Why The Elvis Sandwich Works So Well
Sweet and Savory Combo
The combination of peanut butter and bananas brings a natural sweetness, while the crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. The contrast of these flavors creates a balance that’s irresistible to the taste buds. It’s the perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and creamy, all in one bite.
Textural Contrast
The soft peanut butter and banana filling contrast wonderfully with the crispy bacon and toasted bread. Each bite is a delicious mix of creamy, crunchy, and chewy, making for a satisfying experience.
Comfort Food at Its Best
This sandwich is rich, filling, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the ultimate comfort food for when you’re craving something indulgent and fun. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a hearty meal, the Elvis Sandwich hits the spot.
Quick and Easy to Make
With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, this sandwich comes together in no time. Perfect for a quick treat, a late-night snack, or a creative twist on the traditional grilled cheese.
Ingredients for The Elvis Sandwich
- 2 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or brioche for a richer option)
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, depending on preference)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 2-3 slices of crispy bacon
- Butter (for grilling)
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
How to Make The Elvis Sandwich
1. Prepare the Bacon
Start by frying the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. You can cook it in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain the excess grease.
2. Toast the Bread
While the bacon is cooking, spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the buttered bread slices in the pan, butter side down. Toast the bread until it’s golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once toasted, remove the bread from the pan and set it aside.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
On one slice of the toasted bread, spread a generous layer of peanut butter. Place the banana slices evenly on top of the peanut butter. Then, add the crispy bacon slices on top of the bananas. You can drizzle a little honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness if you’d like.
Top the sandwich with the second slice of bread, buttered side up, to complete the sandwich.
4. Grill the Sandwich
Place the assembled sandwich back in the skillet over medium heat, buttered side down. Grill the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the peanut butter has softened and slightly melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the sandwich is grilled to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for a minute or two. Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately while it’s warm and gooey.
6. Enjoy!
Take a bite of The Elvis Sandwich and enjoy the rich, indulgent combination of peanut butter, banana, crispy bacon, and buttery toast. It’s a fun and satisfying treat that’s sure to hit the spot!
Tips & Variations
- Use different types of bread: For a richer sandwich, use brioche or challah bread, which will give the sandwich an extra buttery flavor and a slightly sweeter taste. You can also use whole grain bread for a healthier option.
- Add chocolate: For an even more decadent version of the Elvis Sandwich, add some chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to the inside before grilling. It’ll turn the sandwich into a dessert-worthy treat.
- Make it vegan: Use peanut butter, plant-based bacon, and vegan bread to make a plant-based version of this sandwich.
- Try other nut butters: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, you can swap it for almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter of your choice. Each one will add a slightly different flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon: For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon on the banana slices before assembling the sandwich.
Health Benefits of The Elvis Sandwich
Good Source of Protein
The peanut butter and bacon provide a decent amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, as well as keeping you energized throughout the day.
Healthy Fats
Peanut butter and bacon both provide healthy fats, which are essential for maintaining good heart health, supporting brain function, and improving overall well-being. The fats in peanut butter are mainly monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Bananas are a great source of potassium, which is vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure and proper muscle function. They also provide vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health. Peanut butter is rich in vitamin E and magnesium, which support overall health.
Energy-Boosting
The combination of healthy fats, protein, and carbohydrates from the banana provides a quick energy boost, making this sandwich a great option for breakfast or as a mid-day snack.
Conclusion
The Elvis Sandwich is a fun and indulgent treat that brings together the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. The peanut butter and banana provide a classic flavor pairing, while the crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch. Grilled on buttery bread, this sandwich is a nostalgic nod to one of Elvis Presley’s favorite meals, but with a modern twist that’s sure to please anyone.
It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and, most importantly, delicious. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack, a decadent breakfast, or a unique lunch, The Elvis Sandwich is a fun and satisfying choice!
FAQs
1. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best to make The Elvis Sandwich fresh, as the grilled bread and melted peanut butter are what make it delicious. However, you can prepare the ingredients (such as cooking the bacon and slicing the banana) ahead of time for quicker assembly.
2. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes! Almond butter or any other nut butter would work well as a substitute for peanut butter in this sandwich.
3. Is it possible to make this sandwich vegan?
Yes, simply use plant-based bacon and vegan bread, and make sure the peanut butter is vegan-friendly. You can also swap the butter for a plant-based alternative.
4. How can I make this sandwich spicier?
To add a little heat to the sandwich, sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper over the banana slices, or drizzle with hot sauce for a spicy kick.
5. How long should I grill the sandwich?
Grill the sandwich for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the peanut butter has slightly melted.
6. Can I add chocolate to The Elvis Sandwich?
Yes! For a more indulgent version, add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of chocolate chips inside the sandwich before grilling. It’s a delicious twist on the classic!
7. How can I make this sandwich healthier?
You can use whole-grain bread, natural peanut butter with no added sugar, and reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
8. Can I make this sandwich without bacon?
Yes! You can skip the bacon if you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
9. Can I freeze the sandwich for later?
It’s best to enjoy The Elvis Sandwich fresh, but you can freeze the sandwich after grilling it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore its crispy texture.
10. How do I serve this sandwich?
Serve The Elvis Sandwich on its own as a snack, or pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a salad for a more balanced meal.