The Alton Blt Recipe

Cook the bacon

Arrange bacon in a single layer in a cold large skillet or cast-iron pan. Turn heat to medium. Cook, turning occasionally, until bacon is evenly browned and crisp, about 8–12 minutes depending on thickness. For chewier bacon, reduce time slightly; for very crisp, cook a minute or two longer. Alternatively, bake on a rimmed sheet tray at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to drain and cool slightly. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper (about 1 tsp) while hot so it adheres. Keep warm in a low oven (about 200°F/95°C) if assembling later.

Prepare tomato & lettuce

While bacon cooks, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch thick slices. Season both sides lightly with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and set on a paper towel for a minute to draw off excess moisture. Pat lettuce leaves dry with a towel and keep whole (or tear to fit bread) so they provide structure and crispness.

Toast or grill the bread

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice (about 2 tbs total). Place buttered-side down on the hot skillet and toast until golden, 1–2 minutes. If you prefer untoasted bread, simply proceed without this step.

Spread mayonnaise

Flip the toasted bread slices and spread approximately 3/4 tbs (about 1.5 tbs per sandwich side total) of Hellmann's mayonnaise on the untoasted side of four slices. Spread an additional thin layer (optional) on the top slices for extra creaminess.

Assemble sandwiches

On the mayonnaise side of four bread slices, layer: 2 slices of bacon (for a single-light build) up to 3 slices depending on preference — distribute 3 bacon slices per sandwich for a hearty BLT (use all 12 slices across 4 sandwiches). Add 2–3 tomato slices per sandwich, then 2 large lettuce leaves. Top with the remaining bread slices, toasted side up, mayonnaise side down.

Finish and serve

Press sandwiches gently, cut each diagonally (or down the middle) with a sharp knife. Serve immediately while bacon is warm and bread is crisp. Provide extra mayonnaise, salt and pepper at the table if desired.