The Classic BLT Sandwich
Few sandwiches have stood the test of time quite like the BLT. Simple, yet deeply satisfying, this American classic has been a lunchtime favorite for generations. The name says it all — Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato — three humble ingredients that, when combined, deliver a perfect balance of crunch, freshness, and smoky flavor.
The BLT became popular in the early 1900s as home kitchens gained access to sliced bread and crispy bacon became a breakfast staple. Over the decades, it’s been served everywhere — from cozy diners to gourmet cafés — and customized endlessly with add-ons like avocado, fried eggs, or even aioli.
But at its heart, a true BLT is all about simplicity and balance. A crisp toast, golden bacon, juicy tomato slices, and cool lettuce — bound together with a creamy spread. Whether you make it for brunch, lunch, or a quick dinner, one bite is all it takes to remember why this sandwich never goes out of style. 🥰
🧂 Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
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4 slices of whole grain or white bread (toasted)
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4 slices of bacon (crispy)
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1 large tomato, sliced
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4 large lettuce leaves (iceberg or romaine)
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2 tbsp mayonnaise (or more, to taste)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ons:
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Sliced avocado for creaminess
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Fried egg for a breakfast twist
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Cheddar or Swiss cheese for extra richness
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A drizzle of honey mustard or aioli for depth
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Place your bacon slices in a cold skillet — yes, cold. Turn the heat to medium and let the fat slowly render out. This method helps the bacon cook evenly and become perfectly crispy without burning.
Flip occasionally until golden and crisp, about 8–10 minutes depending on thickness. Once done, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
Pro Tip: For even crispier, flat bacon, bake it!
Place the bacon strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes. No splatter, no mess!
Step 2: Toast the Bread
While the bacon cooks, toast the bread slices until golden brown. You can use a toaster or lightly butter the bread and toast it on a skillet for extra flavor and crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
Wash and dry the lettuce thoroughly (soggy lettuce can ruin the texture). Slice your tomato into thick rounds — about ¼ inch each. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
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Spread the base: Slather one side of each toasted bread slice with mayonnaise.
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Layer up: On the bottom slice, add the lettuce first — this keeps the bread from getting soggy.
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Add the tomato slices: Lay them evenly, slightly overlapping.
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Top with bacon: Pile on the crispy bacon strips.
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Finish: Place the second bread slice on top, mayo side down.
Press gently to hold everything together.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
Cut the sandwich diagonally for that café-style presentation. Serve it warm with a side of chips, fries, or a light salad.
🥑 Flavor Variations
Want to make your BLT even more exciting? Here are some delicious twists:
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BLAT Sandwich: Add Avocado slices for a creamy, buttery touch.
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BELT: Add a Fried Egg for a breakfast-inspired version.
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Turkey BLT: Swap bacon for turkey bacon or thin-sliced roasted turkey.
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Spicy BLT: Add sriracha mayo or a few jalapeño slices for heat.
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Gourmet BLT: Use artisan bread, add fresh basil leaves, or spread garlic aioli instead of plain mayo.
🧀 Pro Tips for the Perfect BLT
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Use quality bacon. Thick-cut smoked bacon brings the best flavor balance.
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Don’t skip the mayo. It adds creaminess and prevents the sandwich from feeling dry.
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Layer smart. Lettuce under the tomato keeps the bread from soaking up moisture.
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Season the tomato. Just a pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the entire sandwich.
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Serve immediately. The BLT is best eaten fresh and warm for maximum crunch.
🍅 Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~420
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Protein: 18g
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Fat: 24g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 4g
(Varies based on bread type and bacon used.)
🌿 Serving Suggestions
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Lunch Combo: Pair with creamy tomato soup or a crisp Caesar salad.
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Brunch Platter: Add scrambled eggs, orange juice, and fruit for a complete meal.
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Light Dinner: Serve with roasted sweet potato fries or coleslaw.
For something fancier, serve open-faced on sourdough and drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze — it adds a restaurant-level twist.
🧠 Related Questions
1. Can I make a BLT sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best eaten fresh. However, you can cook the bacon and prep the veggies in advance — just assemble right before eating to keep it crisp.
2. What’s the best bread for a BLT?
Classic white or whole grain bread works great, but sourdough, ciabatta, or brioche can elevate it further.
3. How can I make it healthier?
Use turkey bacon, whole wheat bread, light mayo, and add avocado or spinach for extra nutrients.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Replace bacon with smoked tempeh, crispy tofu, or coconut bacon for a satisfying vegetarian version.
5. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Try Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or hummus for a lighter and flavorful alternative.
🥰 Final Thoughts
The BLT sandwich is proof that simple ingredients, when balanced perfectly, can create something extraordinary. The smoky crunch of bacon, the cool crispness of lettuce, and the juicy burst of ripe tomato come together in harmony — all hugged by toasted bread and creamy mayo.
It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and always comforting — a timeless favorite that tastes like nostalgia in every bite. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this BLT will never let you down.
