What’s Better Than Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato on Bread?
Have you ever taken a bite of a sandwich and thought, “Wow, that’s all I ever needed”? That’s the BLT sandwich. But here’s the thing—most people get it wrong. They use soggy bacon, sad tomatoes, and bread that can’t hold up. Want to know how to make it just right? You’re about to learn the secret to the best BLT sandwich ever.
What Makes This BLT Sandwich So Special?
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the Ultimate BLT Sandwich (blt sandwich)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Description
This easy BLT sandwich features thick-cut bacon, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a sweet-spicy glaze. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
6 slices thick-cut bacon
4 slices artisan bread
4 leaves iceberg lettuce
1 large ripe tomato, sliced
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 small shallot, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (4–6 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, chopped shallot, and minced garlic. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. Brush the glaze over the cooked bacon.
Toast the artisan bread slices until golden brown.
Wash and dry the iceberg lettuce. Slice the tomato and lightly salt.
Spread mayonnaise on the bread if desired. Layer lettuce, tomato slices, and bacon. Top with another slice of bread.
Slice diagonally, serve immediately, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
The BLT sandwich is simple. But don’t let that fool you. When made with the right ingredients, it’s a crispy, juicy, smoky, and tangy masterpiece. Ours takes it up a notch with a sweet and spicy glaze for the bacon that cuts through the richness and adds a pop of flavor.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick prep: Ready in 20–25 minutes
- Easy level: Anyone can make this—even if you’ve never cooked before
- Super tasty: Sweet, spicy, and packed with textures
- Healthier twist: Apple cider vinegar and fresh veggies
Essential Ingredients
Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this BLT sandwich unforgettable.
Main Ingredients
- Thick-cut bacon – Thick is key for crunch and flavor
- Artisan bread – Like sourdough or a hearty French loaf
- Iceberg lettuce – Crunchy and refreshing
- Juicy ripe tomatoes – Look for vine-ripened or heirloom
For the Glaze (this is where the magic happens)
- Apple cider vinegar – Balances the fat with a tangy kick
- Organic maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness and richness
- Spicy hot sauce – Choose your favorite, from mild to fiery
- Minced shallots – Gentle onion flavor
- Minced garlic – Deepens the savory taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s cook step by step so you can follow along easily.
Step 1: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat:
- Add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Stir in 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- Add 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to your taste)
- Toss in 1 minced shallot and 1 minced garlic clove
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly
- Turn off the heat and set it aside
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top
- Lay the thick-cut bacon strips on the rack
- Brush with half the glaze
- Bake for 10 minutes, flip the bacon, and brush with more glaze
- Bake for another 5–10 minutes or until crispy
- Let it rest and crisp up even more as it cools
Tip: Oven-baked bacon is less messy and cooks evenly!
Step 3: Prep the Veggies and Bread
- Lettuce: Rinse and dry the iceberg lettuce. Tear into sandwich-sized leaves.
- Tomatoes: Slice thick, even slices. Sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out moisture.
- Bread: Toast the bread slices until golden and crisp on the outside, soft inside.
How to Assemble the Perfect BLT Sandwich
Now it’s time to build your sandwich.
- Start with the bread: Spread a thin layer of mayo or butter on both toasted slices (optional for flavor and moisture).
- Layer 1: Lettuce – Place on the bottom to keep the bread from getting soggy.
- Layer 2: Tomatoes – Add 2–3 slices, slightly overlapping. Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding.
- Layer 3: Bacon – Add 3–4 glazed bacon strips.
- Top bread slice: Place on top and press gently.
Tip for Presentation: Cut the sandwich diagonally for a classic diner look. Serve with chips or a pickle.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Want to prep ahead? Here’s how to keep your BLT sandwich fresh and tasty.
- Bacon: Store cooked bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for crispiness.
- Glaze: Make and store in the fridge for up to a week.
- Tomatoes and Lettuce: Slice tomatoes just before using to prevent sogginess. Wash and store lettuce in a paper towel-lined container.
- Bread: Toast just before assembling for the best texture.
Avoid making the full sandwich in advance—assemble it just before serving for maximum crunch.
Recipe Variations
Want to make it your own? Try one of these fun twists:
- Avocado BLT: Add sliced avocado or a smear of guacamole
- Spicy BLT: Use chipotle mayo instead of regular
- Egg BLT: Top with a fried or scrambled egg for a breakfast version
- Turkey BLT: Add thin slices of turkey or chicken
- Vegan BLT: Swap bacon with tempeh or coconut bacon and use vegan mayo
Conclusion: Time to Try Your Ultimate BLT
A great BLT sandwich isn’t just bacon, lettuce, and tomato—it’s about balance, flavor, and crunch. With this easy guide, you’ll know exactly how to make it perfect every time. Don’t be afraid to try different breads, add extras, or make it your own.
Now that you’ve got the steps, what are you waiting for? Toast that bread, glaze that bacon, and enjoy the best BLT you’ve ever had!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bacon for a BLT sandwich?
A: Thick-cut bacon is best. It holds up well and gives you that crispy, meaty bite.
Q: How can I make this sandwich healthier?
A: Use turkey bacon, whole grain bread, and go easy on the glaze. The apple cider vinegar in the glaze also offers health benefits, like aiding digestion.
Q: Can I use another kind of lettuce?
A: Yes! Romaine or butter lettuce are great options, but iceberg is classic for crunch.
Q: How do I stop my sandwich from getting soggy?
A: Pat the tomatoes dry, toast the bread, and place lettuce on the bottom to create a barrier.
Q: How long does cooked bacon last?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it’ll last 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Just reduce or skip the hot sauce in the glaze if needed.
