Elvis Presley’s Favorite Sandwich Combines Peanut Butter, Banana and Bacon in One Epic Bite

Elvis Presley was known for his electrifying performances, iconic style and love of indulgent Southern comfort food. But one dish has become almost as legendary as the King himself: his signature sandwich, packed with peanut butter, bananas and crispy bacon. It might sound like a crazy combo, but much like Elvis’ music (a fusion of rock, country and blues) it just works. So how did the Elvis sandwich become a part of Presley’s legacy? And more importantly, how can you make one for yourself? You’ve come to the right place.

The origin story of the King’s favorite sandwich

While there are a few versions of how Elvis discovered this indulgent creation, the most famous story traces back to 1976. As the legend goes, Elvis was at home in Graceland when someone mentioned an outrageous sandwich from the Colorado Mine Company restaurant in Denver. This “Fool’s Gold Loaf” was made by hollowing out a loaf of sourdough bread and stuffing it with a pound of bacon, a jar of peanut butter and a jar of jelly. This sandwich reportedly came in at a whopping 8,000 calories.

Elvis was so intrigued that he hopped on his private jet in the middle of the night, flew from Memphis to Denver, and had the restaurant’s owners meet him at the airport with the sandwich. Some say he ordered as many as 30 of them! He enjoyed his meal right there on the tarmac before flying back home, proving that when Elvis wanted something, he didn’t wait around.

The Elvis sandwich we know today

While the Fool’s Gold Loaf was an event all its own, Presley was also known to enjoy a scaled-down version of the sandwich, which has since become known simply as “The Elvis.”

This more approachable take includes two slices of bread spread thick with creamy peanut butter, topped with either sliced or mashed bananas and crispy bacon, then fried in a buttered skillet until golden brown. Some versions even drizzle honey over the top for extra sweetness. Over the years, it’s become a staple on diner menus, in Southern kitchens and even among food lovers (hopefully like yourself).

Tips for making an A-list Elvis sandwich

Much like Elvis himself, this sandwich is larger than life. But if you want to take this sandwich to the next level of late-night goodness, here are three easy tricks:

• Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Regular bacon works, but thick-cut strips add an even more satisfying crunch and a rich, smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of the banana and peanut butter.
• Toast the bread before frying. Lightly toasting the bread before frying prevents it from getting too soggy from the peanut butter and banana while adding a subtle crispiness for texture.
• Drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness. Elvis enjoyed his sandwiches with a little honey. Adding a drizzle before closing up the sandwich adds just the right amount of extra gooeyness and caramelized flavor.

How to make the Elvis sandwich at home

You don’t need a private jet to enjoy this indulgent classic. With just a few pantry staples and 15 minutes, you can whip up an Elvis-worthy treat in your own kitchen. Here’s how with a recipe from Serious Eats.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of white bread (or your favorite sandwich bread)
• 2 Tbs. creamy peanut butter
• 1 small banana, sliced or mashed
• 2-3 slices cooked bacon
• 1 Tbs. butter
• Optional: honey for drizzling

Directions:

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving

1. Spread the peanut butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Add the banana slices (or mash them and spread) on one slice of bread. Then, layer the crispy bacon on top.
3. Sandwich everything together, then butter the outsides of the bread.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the sandwich for two to three minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. (Optional) Drizzle your Elvis sandwich with honey for an extra sweet kick. Then, serve warm.