How to Make the BEST BLT [+Video]

Sure, a BLT sounds simple. Bacon. Lettuce. Tomato. End of story, right? Not even close. This isn’t just a BLT. This is the ultimate, crave-worthy, juice-dripping, flavor-packed BLT recipe that ruins all others forever.

Let’s rewind. I grew up with garden-obsessed parents who thought raw tomatoes with salt were a delicacy. As a kid, I was traumatized. Who bites into a tomato like an apple?! Spoiler: I do now.

When you’ve had a real garden tomato, sun-warmed, sweet, and impossibly juicy, you realize grocery store tomatoes aren’t even in the same category. They’re imposters. And once those summer tomatoes show up? A next-level BLT is non-negotiable.

This version has a few tricks that take it from “basic sandwich” to “holy wow, make another one.” Let’s get into it.

Ingredients for the Best BLT

A classic BLT is all about the basics! When each ingredient is just right, it turns into something magic. Think crispy bacon with the perfect crunch, perfect ripe tomatoes, and crisp lettuce stacked between golden, toasted bread. Here’s what you’ll need to build the best BLT of your life:

• Bread: Choose a hearty, good-quality bread like sourdough, cut fairly thin (about 1/2 inch thick). You want something that crisps up beautifully when toasted while holding up to all the juicy, savory fillings.
  • PRO TIP: I actually don’t prefer to toast my bread for BLTs. Instead, grill each slice of bread in butter (not bacon fat!) on a cast iron skillet only on one side. This way, the inside remains tender. Don’t overtoast the bread! You are looking for a nice light golden brown.

BLT Fillings

• Bacon: People often think, the thicker the slice of bacon, the better, and normally, I would not disagree! But for BLTs, I’ve actually found that thin or medium slices are best so you don’t pull out all of the bacon when you’re trying to get a bite. 
  • PRO TIP: You want your bacon really crisp and brittle for the best texture combination and ease of eating. Head to our post on how to cook bacon for instructions on how to cook perfect bacon.
• Lettuce: Crisp, fresh lettuce is key. Iceberg lettuce or green leaf lettuce is our preferred type, but butter lettuce or romaine also works great!

• Tomato: Use the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find. Fresh garden beefsteak, heirloom, or vine-ripened tomatoes are perfect for bringing that sweet, tangy balance.
  • PRO TIP: Slice the tomatoes into nice thick slices, and season them well with salt and pepper.
• Homemade Garlic Aioli: This is our secret weapon. Creamy, lemon-y, garlicky aioli adds richness and a punch of flavor that regular mayo just can’t match. Duke’s is my preferred brand of mayo to use, but Hellman’s or Miracle Whip are great as well.

Instructions for Making The BEST BLT!

The little details make all the difference. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to make a BLT that’s crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor!

1. Toast: Butter and toast one side of each sourdough slice until golden.
2. Mix: Mix mayo, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth.
3. Season: Slice tomatoes thick and season with salt and pepper.
4. Prep: Wash, dry, and tear lettuce into sandwich-sized pieces.
5. Assemble: Spread garlic mayo on the untoasted side of the bread, then layer with lettuce, tomato, and bacon. Top with another slice.
6. Serve: Slice in half if desired and serve right away.

The instructions can be found in more detail in the recipe card at the end of this post!

Variations of a Classic BLT

I’m convinced this is the ultimate BLT as-is, but if you’re feeling a little adventurous, there are plenty of delicious ways to remix the classic. Try adding:

• Fried Egg: For a rich, brunchy vibe
• Avocado: Creamy, buttery perfection in every bite
• Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet, smoky, and totally irresistible
• Coleslaw: Adds crunch and a tangy twist
• Hummus: A flavorful, protein-packed spread
• Sprouts: Light, fresh, and extra crunchy
• Pimento Cheese: Southern comfort meets BLT heaven.

Experiment away! You really can’t go wrong!

What to Eat with a BLT

You can totally make a meal out of these outrageous BLTs by adding a simple side or two. Here’s a few ideas to make this sandwich into a meal:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob
• Summer Fruit Salad
• Tomato Cucumber Salad
• The Best Home Fries Recipe
• Elote Grilled Mexican Corn Salad
• Citrus Jicama Avocado Salad
• Potato Salad

If you’re craving a BLT in the fall or winter, they go so great with soups and chili!

Can You Make BLTs Ahead of Time?

Yes, they make a great sandwich to pack for school lunch or to take to work. Make sure you pack the tomatoes separately because they will make your bread all soggy. I like to put them in a little container and add them right before eating the sandwich.

How Long Do BLTs Keep?

Once BTLs have been assembled, they do not keep long. The tomatoes can quickly make the bread and bacon soggy, so it is best if they are eaten fresh. 

The perfect BEST BLT should be juicy but never soggy, crispy but also tender, and buttery toasted golden. This is that recipe! BLTs are great for a quick dinner or for a delicious lunch. Follow all our tips and you’ll never make BTLs another way again!

More Sandwich Recipes You’ll Love:

• Italian Pressed Sandwich
• Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
• Egg Salad Sandwich
• Chicken Caprese Sandwich
• Chicken Salad Sandwich
• French Dip Sandwich
• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Panini
• Avocado, Turkey, & Bacon Sandwiches
• …ALL OF OUR SANDWICH RECIPES!

How to Make a BLT Video

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