4-Season BLTs
Level 1: About as easy as this kind of recipe gets. Few ingredients, minimal cleanup, forgiving timing – a good way in if this type of recipe usually feels intimidating.
Level 2: Easier than most recipes of this type. Some technique, but nothing tricky. Minimal cleanup, forgiving timing. Think weeknights, a quick meal, or the easy version.
Level 3: About average for its category. Real judgment calls – tasting, timing, multiple components. Not a beginner recipe, but doesn't need to take over your afternoon or feel impossible for a decently quick dinner.
Level 4: More involved than the average recipe of its type. Multiple stages, careful timing, technique that matters. Worth setting aside the time and clearing the kitchen.
Level 5: The most involved this category gets here. Lots of components, real attention start-to-finish, multiple skills in play. The "I'm cooking today – bring me snacks but no questions" tier.
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This is just the recipe. Want the story behind these methods – sources, experiments, and other interesting information? Read The Season(ing) Finale →
dry brine time:
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marinade time:
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hands-on time:
15 minutes
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rise time:
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cook time:
15 minutes
rest time:
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chill time:
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total time:
20 minutes
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equipment
reset to default # of servings
sandwiches
! see scaling note !
ingredients
ingredients
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Mise en Place / Notes
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process
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if you have the thyme...
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notes
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scaling
Scaling a recipe up or down significantly? The recipe ingredients, process, cost, and nutrition scale (notes and faqs do not). Check yourself before you wreck yourself:
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Tiny amounts get tricky. Very small quantities of yeast, baking powder, baking soda, and spices are easier to measure by volume (teaspoons) than by weight – your average kitchen scale can't reliably read tenths of an ounce.
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Check your equipment. Make sure your bowls, pans, and mixer can handle the scaled volume. Dough typically needs 2 to 3 times its starting volume of space to rise comfortably.
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Cook times don't always scale. Some steps – like cooking pieces one at a time in a skillet – take proportionally longer with a bigger batch. Others, like oven baking, usually stay about the same.
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Hydration can drift. Flour absorbency varies, so very small or very large batches may need a splash more or less water than the math suggests.
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faqs
What if I don't have a food processor?
A blender will work – just make sure that you don't purée the tomatoes (just roughly chop). Alternatively, a rough chop with a chef's knife works great.
Can I make a BLT vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based bacon alternatives, smoked tempeh, or roasted mushrooms for umami. Vegan mayo and avocado add creaminess. Toasted sourdough or hearty whole grain bread helps mimic the classic texture.
What's the best bread for a BLT?
Toasted sourdough, country white, or whole wheat are all great. The key is a sturdy slice that crisps well and holds up to mayo and juicy tomatoes.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the bread, pat tomatoes dry, and layer strategically: lettuce acts as a moisture barrier between the tomatoes and bread. Assemble just before serving.
Can I prep BLTs ahead of time?
You can cook the bacon and prep the lettuce and tomato in advance. Store components separately and assemble right before eating to preserve texture.
What's a good mayo substitute?
Try mashed avocado, pesto, hummus, or a yogurt-based spread. For tang, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
cost
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nutrition information
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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet; your needs may differ.
Nutrition information is estimated using USDA databases and may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
The 2,000-calorie reference is used as a general guide. Individual calorie needs typically range from 1,600 to 2,400 calories per day for adult women and 2,000 to 3,000 calories per day for adult men, depending on age, activity level, and other factors.
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MAKE IT A MEAL
Delicious sides for any sandwich...
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KITCHENARY
Learn the lingo...
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softening fruit with sugar or acid
Macerate
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uneven pieces, precision optional
Rough Chop
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Render
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Maillard Reaction
sandwich · comfort food · lactose-free · lunch · kid-friendly · <30 minutes · easy · make-ahead · minimal hands-on · weeknight · party · game-day · year-round · one-pan · american
Edits to the Site (just in case you want to know)
June 1, 2026 – Fixed Step 5 so it doesn't say to add 4 tablespoons of mayo to each slice! Added notes and updated FAQs.
November 3, 2025 – Original publication.
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