Bacon Lettuce & Tomato Recipe

Cook bacon

Arrange 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a single layer in a cold skillet or on a rimmed baking sheet. For stovetop: place skillet over medium heat and cook 8–12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until evenly browned and crisp but still pliable. For oven: preheat oven to 200°C (400°F), place bacon on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake 12–18 minutes until crisp. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain.

While bacon rests, reserve 1 tsp of bacon fat (optional) and discard or save remaining fat. Keeping bacon warm will make assembly easier.

Lightly butter one side of each bread slice (2 tbs butter total) if you want grilled-style sandwiches. Toast bread slices until golden in a skillet or toaster (about 2–4 minutes per side on skillet over medium heat).

Spread mayonnaise (about 3 tbs per 2-slice sandwich) evenly on the interior (untoasted) side of each slice. If using hot sauce, mix into half the mayo for a spicy spread.

Slice tomatoes into 4–6 even slices each (about 1/4-inch thick). Lightly season tomato slices with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, distributing evenly.

Wash and dry lettuce leaves thoroughly. If using avocado, slice 1/2 avocado thinly and toss with a small squeeze of lemon if desired to slow browning.

For each sandwich, place 4 slices of bread (make 4 sandwiches) or assemble two-slice sandwiches using 2 slices of bread per sandwich. On the bottom slice (mayo side up), layer 2 slices of bacon, then 2–3 tomato slices (slightly overlapping), then 2 large lettuce leaves. Add optional avocado or pickles if using.

Top with a second slice of bread (mayo side down). If you buttered and toasted the outsides, place the sandwich in a hot skillet and press gently with a spatula; cook 1–2 minutes per side to warm and slightly crisp the exterior.

Cut sandwich in half on the diagonal with a sharp knife. Secure with a toothpick if desired.

Serve immediately while bacon is warm. Offer extra mayonnaise, hot sauce, or pickle slices on the side.