Classic BLT Sandwich – Full Detailed Recipe

 

The BLT is an American classic for a reason — crispy bacon, juicy tomatoe

s, crunchy lettuce, and perfectly toasted bread come together in a simple but incredibly satisfying sandwich. With just a few ingredients, the quality and technique matter. This long, blog-style version walks you through how to build the perfect BLT, with pro tips, optional add-ins, and serving ideas.

Ingredients

For One Sandwich

• 2 slices thick-cut bread, toasted (sourdough, brioche, Texas toast, or white)
• 4–6 slices crispy bacon
• 2–3 slices ripe tomato (heirloom or beefsteak are ideal)
• 2–3 leaves crisp lettuce (romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Optional:

• A drizzle of hot sauce
• A sprinkle of garlic powder in the mayo
• Avocado slices
• Dijon mustard

Instructions (Long, Detailed Version)

1. Cook the Bacon

1. Lay your bacon slices in a cold skillet — this helps them cook evenly and get crisp.
2. Turn the heat to medium and cook until the bacon is browned and crispy, flipping as needed.
3. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
   Tip: For perfectly flat, evenly crispy bacon, cook it in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 15–20 minutes.

2. Toast the Bread

1. Toast both slices of bread until golden brown.
2. A slightly darker toast holds up better to juicy tomatoes and mayo.
3. Optional: Spread a tiny bit of bacon fat on the bread before toasting for extra flavor.

3. Prep the Tomatoes

1. Slice the tomatoes about ¼-inch thick.
2. Sprinkle each slice lightly with salt and pepper.
   Seasoning the tomatoes makes a huge difference — it enhances their flavor and balances the richness of the bacon.

4. Prepare the Lettuce

1. Wash and dry the lettuce well.
2. Pat dry with a towel — wet lettuce makes for a soggy sandwich.
3. Choose leaves that will lay flat and cover the bread evenly.

5. Assemble the BLT

1. Spread mayonnaise generously on one (or both) slices of toasted bread.
   • Mayo adds moisture and protects the bread from getting soggy.
2. Layer the lettuce on the bottom slice first — this creates a crisp base.
3. Add the tomato slices on top of the lettuce.
4. Place the crispy bacon over the tomatoes.
5. Top with the second slice of bread (mayo side down) and press gently.

6. Slice & Serve

1. Slice the sandwich diagonally for classic presentation.
2. Serve immediately while the bacon is warm and the toast is crisp.

Pro Tips for the Best BLT

• Use high-quality tomatoes — the sandwich depends on them.
• Thick, good-quality bacon makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Always season the tomatoes (salt + pepper).
• Don’t use wet lettuce — pat it completely dry.
• Add extra mayo if you like a creamier sandwich.
• Toast the bread well to prevent sogginess.

Variations

BLTA (Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, Avocado)

Add sliced avocado for creaminess.

Spicy BLT

Mix hot sauce or sriracha into the mayo.

Honey Bacon BLT

Brush bacon with a little honey during the last minute of cooking.

Garlic Mayo BLT

Stir ¼ tsp garlic powder into the mayo.

Turkey BLT

Add sliced turkey breast for a heartier version.

 Serving Suggestions

Pairs perfectly with:

• Potato chips
• Fries
• A cup of tomato soup
• A simple side salad
• Pickles