Introduction
The Classic BLT Sandwich is one of those timeless recipes that never goes out of style. It’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients—crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mayonnaise—layered between slices of toasted bread. Despite its simplicity, this sandwich offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures: salty and crunchy bacon, cool and crisp lettuce, sweet and tangy tomatoes, and the smooth richness of mayo.
I love this recipe because it’s not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you need a light lunch, a picnic option, or a weekend brunch treat, the BLT always delivers. It feels indulgent without being overly heavy, and you can dress it up with variations to suit your tastes.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Balanced flavors – The salty bacon pairs beautifully with sweet, juicy tomatoes and fresh lettuce.
- Satisfying crunch – Every bite has a crisp texture from both the bacon and lettuce.
- Quick & versatile – Ready in minutes, perfect for lunch, dinner, or even cut into smaller portions for snacks.
- Customizable – Easy to adapt with extra toppings or flavored mayonnaise.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
The BLT is a classic American comfort food that everyone should experience. It’s an iconic sandwich that showcases how a few fresh, high-quality ingredients can make something extraordinary. If you’re new to making sandwiches from scratch, this is a perfect place to start—it’s simple yet rewarding.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Calories per serving: ~450–500 kcal (varies based on bread, bacon, and mayo used)
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Main course, Lunch, Brunch, Sandwich
Ingredients
- 4 slices of sandwich bread (white, sourdough, or whole wheat)
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 large tomato, ripe and sliced
- 4–6 leaves of romaine lettuce (washed and dried)
- 2–3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Optional:
- Avocado slices
- Cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- Toasted sourdough for a rustic flavor
Simple Cooking Directions
- Cook bacon until crispy.
- Toast bread slices lightly.
- Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice.
- Layer lettuce, tomato slices (seasoned with salt and pepper), and bacon.
- Top with another slice of bread, slice in half, and serve warm.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Cook the bacon: Place bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, turning occasionally (8–10 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- Toast the bread: Lightly toast bread slices in a toaster or pan until golden brown.
- Prepare the veggies: Wash and pat dry lettuce leaves. Slice tomato into medium-thick rounds. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assemble the sandwich:
- Spread mayonnaise evenly on one side of each slice of toast.
- Place lettuce leaves on the bottom slice.
- Add tomato slices on top of the lettuce.
- Layer the crispy bacon strips over the tomato.
- Finish with the top slice of bread (mayo side down).
- Slice & serve: Cut sandwich diagonally for easy handling and serve immediately.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with potato chips, fries, or a pickle on the side.
- Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold soda for a classic combo.
- Can also be served with a side salad for a lighter meal.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch.
- Always season your tomatoes with salt and pepper before layering to enhance flavor.
- Toasting the bread prevents it from becoming soggy from the mayo and tomatoes.
- Use good-quality mayonnaise for the best results (homemade or a brand like Hellmann’s/Best Foods).
Variations
- Avocado BLT (BLTA): Add creamy avocado slices.
- Turkey BLT: Replace bacon with turkey bacon or add roasted turkey slices.
- Spicy BLT: Mix sriracha or hot sauce into mayo for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy BLT: Add a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese.
- BLT Wrap: Use a tortilla wrap instead of bread for a lighter option.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Best eaten fresh. If storing, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours (but bread may soften).
- Freezing: Not recommended, as lettuce and tomato lose texture after thawing.
Special Equipment Needed
- Skillet or frying pan (for bacon)
- Toaster or pan (for bread)
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper towels (to drain bacon)
Conclusion
The Classic BLT Sandwich with Crispy Bacon and Mayo is proof that sometimes less really is more. With just a few ingredients, you get a flavorful, crunchy, and comforting sandwich that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for lunches, picnics, or casual dinners, this recipe deserves a spot in everyone’s kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.