Bacon Classic Recipe

Sandwich

1. 1

   Prepare bacon

   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange bacon slices in a single layer on the rack without overlapping. Bake in the center of the oven for 15–20 minutes, turning the pan halfway if your oven runs hot, until bacon is deep golden and crisp at edges but still slightly flexible. For chewier bacon, remove at ~12–14 minutes; for crispier bacon, leave to 18–20 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain, then blot excess fat and keep warm.

2. 2

   Toast bread and melt butter

   While the bacon is baking, spread 1 tablespoon butter evenly on one side of each slice of sourdough. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Place buttered side down and cook the bread 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp and butter is melted into the bread. Alternatively, use a toaster and spread remaining butter on the outside after toasting for extra richness.

3. 3

   Make spread

   In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Taste and add a pinch more salt if needed. This creates a tangy binder that complements the bacon.

4. 4

   Slice produce

   While bread is toasting and bacon rests, thinly slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds. Rinse and pat dry the lettuce leaves. Lightly season tomato slices with a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) of kosher salt to bring out flavor.

5. 5

   Assemble sandwich

   Spread the mayonnaise-mustard mixture evenly on the unbuttered sides of two toasted bread slices. On one slice, layer: two slices of cheddar cheese, four slices of warm bacon (arrange to cover), tomato slices (2–3 rounds), and lettuce leaves. Top with remaining slice of bread, buttered side out. If desired, add the second sandwich with remaining ingredients.

6. 6

   Optional finish (melt cheese)

   If you prefer melted cheese, return assembled open-face sandwiches to the warm skillet or a 350°F (175°C) oven for 1–2 minutes until cheese softens and begins to melt, then close the sandwich and press lightly for 30 seconds.

7. 7

   Serve

   Cut each sandwich in half on the diagonal. Serve immediately while bacon is warm and bread is crisp. Offer extra napkins for any remaining bacon grease. Enjoy.