Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and toasted bread—made seconds before the photo. Real world, real hunger, real share!
The Classic BLT is a timeless sandwich that combines crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and toasted bread. This version elevates the classic with perfectly toasted sourdough, thick-cut bacon, and a mayo-laced crunch that’ll have you savoring every bite.
Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, this BLT is a no-fail recipe. It’s all about the textures—crunchy bacon, crisp lettuce, and the slight char from the pan-toasting. No filters needed, just real food that hits all the right notes.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have time to cook. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable. Add avocado, a fried egg, or a drizzle of hot sauce to make it your own.
The key to a great BLT is using high-quality ingredients. Thick-cut bacon for that smoky crisp, ripe tomatoes for juiciness, and fresh lettuce for crunch. The mayo is the glue that holds everything together, adding a creamy richness that ties the flavors together.
Let’s dive into why this recipe works and how to make it your best BLT yet!
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick and Easy
Ready in under 15 minutes, this BLT is perfect for busy weeknights. No special equipment or techniques needed—just pan-toast and assemble.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have at home. No need for fancy condiments or specialty bread.
👥 Customizable
Add avocado, bacon, or a fried egg to make it your own. The base recipe is a canvas for your favorite toppings.
🌟 Restaurant-Quality
Pan-toasting the bread and using thick-cut bacon gives it that restaurant-level crispiness and smoky flavor.
Classic BLT Toasted
Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and toasted bread—no filter needed!
🛒 Ingredients
- - 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- - 4 slices sourdough bread
- - 4 slices ripe tomato
- - 4 leaves crisp lettuce
- - 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- - Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
Toast the Bread: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the bread slices and toast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Set aside.
💡 Use a cast-iron skillet for extra crispiness.
Cook the Bacon: Add the bacon to the skillet and cook over medium heat until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
💡 Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread mayonnaise on both sides of the toasted bread. Layer lettuce, tomato slices, and crispy bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Top with the remaining bread slice.
💡 For extra crunch, add a slice of avocado.
Serve Immediately: Cut the sandwiches in half and serve with a side of pickles or a drizzle of hot sauce.
💡 Pair with a cold drink for the perfect meal.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Thick-Cut Bacon
The star of the BLT! Thick-cut bacon gives the best crunch and smoky flavor. Don’t skimp on the quality—use heritage pork if available.
Substitutions: Smoked turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Sourdough Bread
Its tangy flavor and sturdy texture hold up to the juicy tomatoes. You can also use whole wheat or white bread if sourdough isn’t available.
Substitutions: Multigrain or brioche for a sweeter base.
Mayonnaise
Adds creaminess and binds the sandwich together. Use a high-quality mayo for the best flavor.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy alternative.
Tomatoes
Use vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for the best juiciness. Avoid overripe tomatoes—they’ll make the bread soggy.
Substitutions: Cucumber slices for a refreshing twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect BLT
🔥 Toasting Technique
Use a cast-iron skillet for maximum heat retention. The bread will toast faster and get that perfect golden crust.
🥄 Layering Order
Start with mayo on both bread slices to create a barrier against the tomato juice. Then add lettuce, tomato, bacon, and top with another slice of bread.
🍅 Tomato Prep
Blot excess moisture with paper towels. Wet tomatoes will make the bread soggy. Aim for 1/4-inch thick slices for the perfect balance of juice and texture.
🧀 Upgrade Your BLT
Add a slice of sharp cheddar or a fried egg for extra richness. The cheese melts slightly, binding the sandwich together and adding depth of flavor.
Variations & Customizations
BLT with Avocado
Add a ripe avocado slice for a creamy, buttery twist. The avocado complements the bacon and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Spicy BLT
Sprinkle chili flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick. The heat enhances the smoky flavor of the bacon.
Bacon, Lettuce, & Tomato Burger
Use a burger bun and add a patty. The BLT elements pair perfectly with a juicy burger for a hearty meal.
Vegetarian BLT
Skip the bacon and use grilled portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture. The smokiness of the mushrooms mimics bacon’s flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Crunchy Side: French fries or sweet potato fries add a salty, crispy contrast.
- Acidic Side: A side of coleslaw balances the richness of the BLT.
- Warm Drink: Iced tea or lemonade complements the smoky flavor.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer such as a lager. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a lime twist.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Toast the bread and cook the bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Store separately in airtight containers to maintain crispiness.
Refrigerator Storage
Store assembled sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The bread may soften slightly, but the flavors will deepen.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked bacon for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes before assembling.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side. Avoid the microwave to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
A: Blot the tomatoes with paper towels before assembling. Use a mayonnaise barrier on the bread to prevent moisture absorption.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
A: Yes, but it won’t be as crispy. Reheat it in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to restore crispiness.
Q: What if I don’t have sourdough bread?
A: Use any sturdy bread like whole wheat, brioche, or even English muffins. Avoid soft buns—they’ll fall apart.
Q: How can I make this healthier?
A: Use turkey bacon, whole grain bread, and Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Add a slice of tomato to increase vegetable content.
Final Thoughts
The Classic BLT T is more than just a sandwich—it’s a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients. With crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and toasted bread, it’s a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or even breakfast with a fried egg, this BLT is a crowd-pleaser.
Don’t let the simplicity fool you. This recipe is a canvas for creativity. Add your favorite toppings, swap out ingredients, or pair it with your go-to sides. The key is to use fresh, quality ingredients and pan-toast the bread for that perfect crispiness. Serve it with a smile and a cold drink, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress!
