Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato on toast
Classic BLT Sandwich
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2
2 sandwiches
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Classic BLT Sandwich
Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato on toast
★4.5(23)
The ultimate BLT with thick-cut crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce on toasted bread with a generous slather of mayo.
5m
Prep Time
15m
Cook Time
20m
Total Time
2
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
A perfect BLT is all about quality ingredients and timing. Thick-cut bacon, peak-season tomatoes, and crisp lettuce on well-toasted bread create sandwich perfection.
This is the kind of recipe that defines American home cooking at its best — straightforward, satisfying, and built on flavors that everyone loves.
This version of Classic BLT Sandwich has been refined through testing to ensure consistently excellent results. The key to this dish is building flavor at every stage, from the initial sear to the final seasoning. Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers reliable, deeply satisfying results that punch well above its effort level.
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 4 slices sourdough bread, toasted
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 4 leaves crisp iceberg or romaine lettuce
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Lay bacon on a rack over a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes until crispy.
- 2
Toast bread slices until golden brown.
- 3
Spread mayo generously on all slices of toast.
- 4
Layer lettuce, tomato slices (seasoned with salt and pepper), and bacon on two slices.
- 5
Top with remaining toast, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with classic coleslaw and cornbread on the side
Pair with fresh-cut fries or roasted potato wedges
Substitutions
MayonnaiseAvocado spread
Healthier, adds creaminess
Iceberg lettuceArugula
Peppery, more complex flavor
Fresh herbsDried herbs at one-third the amount
Dried herbs are more concentrated. Add them earlier in the cooking process so they have time to rehydrate and release their flavor.
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Use peak-season summer tomatoes for the best flavor.
Upgrade to garlic aioli or chipotle mayo for a twist.
Add a fried egg or avocado to make it a BLTA or BLTE.
Rest your finished dish under loose foil for at least 5 minutes. This final pause lets the juices redistribute and the carryover heat gently finish the interior.
Use an instant-read thermometer for perfect doneness every time. Guessing by touch or timing alone leads to inconsistent results, especially with thicker cuts.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Stovetop reheating over medium-low heat is also effective.
Recipe Notes from Our Kitchen
Editor's Note
Editor's note: We tested this with both bone-in and boneless cuts and both work well. Bone-in takes a bit longer but rewards you with richer, more flavorful results.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (40mg) · 2 servings
Calories480
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein18g
Carbohydrates34g
Fat26g
Fiber920mg
Sugar2g
Sodium4g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What bread is best?
- Sourdough, country white, or a thick-sliced pullman loaf.
- Can I use turkey bacon?
- Yes, but cook it a bit longer for crispiness.
- Can I use a different protein?
- Yes. This recipe works with most proteins — swap chicken for pork, beef for lamb, or use firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as thinner cuts cook faster and denser proteins need more time.
- Can I make this ahead?
- Yes. Prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a 350 degree oven until warmed through. The flavors often improve after a day of resting.
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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