Smokey Blt Recipe

Sandwich

1. 1

   Prepare bacon

   If bacon is not already cooked, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and arrange bacon in a single layer. Bake 12–18 minutes until crisp to your preference. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly. If using pre-cooked Daily's bacon, warm in a skillet for 1–2 minutes per side or in the oven for 3–5 minutes.

2. 2

   Prepare roll

   Slice the hoagie roll lengthwise, leaving a hinge if desired. Lightly butter the cut sides with the softened butter. Place roll cut-side up on a baking sheet and toast in the 400°F oven (or under a broiler) for 3–5 minutes until edges are golden and the interior is slightly crisp. Remove and let cool briefly.

3. 3

   Slice tomato and season

   While the roll toasts, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange slices on a plate and sprinkle both sides lightly with the coarse sea salt (about 1/4 tsp) and half the black pepper. Set aside to let flavors meld for 2 minutes; blot any excess liquid with a paper towel to avoid a soggy sandwich.

4. 4

   Assemble cream cheese spread

   In a small bowl, soften the cream cheese further by stirring with a spoon. Stir in the remaining black pepper and optional smoked paprika for extra smokiness. Taste and adjust seasoning. Spread the seasoned cream cheese evenly on both cut sides of the warm toasted roll (about 1 tablespoon per side).

5. 5

   Layer cheese and bacon

   Place the slices of smoked Gouda on the bottom half of the roll, slightly overlapping. If you prefer the cheese melted, place the assembled bottom half briefly (1–2 minutes) under the broiler or in the oven until the cheese softens but doesn't fully liquefy. Remove promptly to avoid over-melting. Top the Gouda with the cooked bacon strips, arranging them to cover the length of the roll.

6. 6

   Add tomato and lettuce

   Lay the seasoned tomato slices over the bacon in a single layer. Top the tomatoes with the washed and dried lettuce leaves. Press gently to compact the sandwich slightly.

7. 7

   Finish and serve

   Close the roll and, if desired, press lightly and cut the sandwich in half on the diagonal. Serve immediately while the roll is warm and the bacon still slightly crisp. Provide extra napkins — this sandwich is rich and smoky.