When you want a quick, satisfying sandwich that’s packed with flavor and perfect any time of day, a classic BLT sandwich always hits the spot. This simple but legendary trio of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato layered between toasted bread is a timeless favorite for good reason. The salty crunch of bacon combined with juicy tomato and crisp greens, all tied together with creamy mayo, makes every bite pure comfort.
I first fell in love with the classic BLT sandwich as a kid when my mom made it for lunch, and it’s stayed a staple in my kitchen ever since. It’s easy enough for busy weekdays but special enough to enjoy on a lazy weekend afternoon, too. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—easy to customize with your favorite breads or add-ons.
Whether you’re a sandwich novice or a seasoned pro, this classic BLT sandwich recipe is sure to become one of your go-to lunch or snack options. Ready to build the perfect BLT? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Classic BLT Sandwich Recipe
- Simple ingredients, big flavor — No complicated steps, just perfectly cooked bacon and fresh produce
- Quick and easy — Ready in under 15 minutes, ideal for lunch or a fast dinner
- Versatile — Use any bread you love, add avocado or cheese if you want to mix it up
- Perfect balance of textures — Crunchy bacon and lettuce meet juicy tomato and creamy mayo
- Satisfying and filling — Protein from bacon plus fresh veggies make it hearty without feeling heavy
- Kid-friendly — A sandwich most kids adore, and easy to adjust for picky eaters
- Customizable — Gluten-free, keto, or vegan variations are simple to make
Ingredients for This Classic BLT Sandwich Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make a traditional BLT that never disappoints:
- Bacon — Thick-cut or regular, cooked until crispy
- Lettuce — Crisp iceberg or romaine works best for crunch
- Tomato — Fresh, ripe, and sliced thick
- Bread — Your choice! White, whole wheat, sourdough, or toasted sandwich bread
- Mayonnaise — Adds creaminess and moisture to balance the savory bacon
- Salt and pepper — To season the tomato slices just right
Pro tip: Using quality, fresh ingredients makes a huge difference!
How to Make Classic BLT Sandwich – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the bacon
Cook your bacon until crispy, either in a skillet over medium heat, baked in the oven on a foil-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or even microwaved between paper towels. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
Step 2: Prepare the veggies
Wash and dry your lettuce leaves. Slice the tomato into thick rounds, then sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Toast the bread
Toast your bread slices until golden brown and crisp. Toasting adds great texture and prevents sogginess when you add the tomato and mayo.
Step 4: Assemble the sandwich
Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise on one or both slices of toasted bread. Layer on the lettuce leaves, then the seasoned tomato slices. Next, add the crispy bacon strips.
Step 5: Finish and serve
Top with the second slice of bread, press lightly to hold everything together, and slice the sandwich diagonally if you like. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.
Helpful Tips for Classic BLT Sandwich
- Don’t skip toasting the bread — It makes all the difference in texture and prevents soggy sandwiches
- Choose ripe tomatoes — Juicy, flavorful tomatoes are key for a perfect BLT
- Use crispy bacon — Soft bacon won’t provide that satisfying crunch and contrast
- Add extras if you want — Avocado slices, a fried egg, or sharp cheddar cheese are delicious additions
- Make it a wrap — Use large lettuce leaves or tortillas to wrap the filling for a low-carb option
- Store bacon properly — Cook extra bacon and keep it refrigerated for quick sandwich assembly during the week
- Try flavored mayo — Mix mayo with a bit of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or hot sauce for a twist
FAQs About Classic BLT Sandwich
Can I make a BLT sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! Swap bacon for tempeh bacon, smoked tofu, or crispy portobello mushrooms to keep the smoky crunch without meat.
What bread works best for BLTs?
Sourdough, whole wheat, and classic white bread all work well. Toasted bread is key to avoid sogginess.
How can I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the bread well, use thick tomato slices, and layer mayo between bread and tomato to create a moisture barrier.
Can I prepare BLT sandwiches ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble right before eating to keep the bread crisp and bacon crunchy.
Is BLT sandwich healthy?
While delicious and filling, BLTs are indulgent due to bacon and mayo. For a healthier twist, use turkey bacon, light mayo, or add extra veggies.
I make classic BLT sandwiches all the time because they’re just so reliably tasty and quick to throw together. They’re one of those recipes that always feel like a little treat but come together in minutes. Try this classic BLT sandwich recipe yourself and let me know your favorite variations—I’m always curious to hear how people like to customize theirs!
Classic BLT Sandwich
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread white, whole wheat, or your choice
- 3 –4 slices bacon
- 2 –3 leaves of lettuce romaine or iceberg
- 2 slices ripe tomato
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: avocado slices or cheese
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.,
- Toast the bread: Toast the bread slices to your preferred crispness.,
- Prepare the bread: Spread mayonnaise evenly on one side of each toast slice.,
- Assemble the sandwich: Layer lettuce leaves on one slice, then add tomato slices seasoned with salt and pepper.,
- Add bacon: Place crispy bacon slices on top of the tomatoes.,
- Complete: Top with the other slice of bread, mayonnaise side down.,
- Serve: Cut sandwich in half if desired and serve immediately.,
Notes
- Add avocado slices or cheese for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Serve with a side of BBQ side dishes or a fresh salad.
- For a low-carb version, use lettuce wraps instead of bread.
