Classic Blt Recipe

For the Sandwiches

1. 1

   Prepare the bacon

   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the 12 slices of thick-cut bacon in a single layer on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet (this allows fat to drip away and yields even crisping). Bake for 15–20 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until bacon reaches your preferred crispness. For extra-crisp, bake up to 22 minutes. Remove bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain and cool slightly.

2. 2

   Toast the bread (optional)

   While the bacon is baking or after, spread a thin layer of the optional butter on one side of each of the 8 bread slices. Toast in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster/grill until golden and lightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes per side if pan-toasting. Keep warm.

3. 3

   Prepare tomato and lettuce

   Slice the 2 ripe tomatoes into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick slices. Wash and dry 8 leaves of iceberg or romaine lettuce thoroughly and trim any tough rib if desired. Place tomato slices on a plate and season them lightly with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper (reserve the rest for final seasoning).

4. 4

   Assemble mayonnaise

   Spread about 3/4 tbs (roughly 1 tablespoon) of mayonnaise on the interior side of each of the 8 bread slices (total 6 tbs used). If you prefer a thinner layer, adjust to taste. For variation, you can mix a little lemon juice or a pinch of garlic powder into the mayo before spreading.

5. 5

   Assemble the BLTs

   Place 3 slices of cooked bacon on one mayo-coated slice of bread. Layer 2–3 tomato slices (seasoned) over the bacon, then top with 1 lettuce leaf (or fold leaves if large) so each sandwich gets 1 leaf per layer; build as desired for height and coverage. Sprinkle a light pinch of the remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper over the tomato if you like more seasoning. Top with the mayo-coated bread slice, mayo side down. Repeat to make 4 sandwiches.

6. 6

   Finish and serve

   Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich diagonally or in half. Serve immediately while bacon is warm and bread is crisp. Provide extra mayonnaise and a small bowl of pickles or potato chips on the side if desired.