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Extra-Crispy BLT
Lunch

Extra-Crispy BLT

A carefully crafted dish that blends traditional and modern cooking techniques to deliver comforting flavors for every occasion.

⏱️

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Difficulty

Medium

📂

Category

Lunch

Recipe Details

Extra-Crispy BLT

By Ali Slagle | Updated Aug. 17, 2021

Total Time: 35 minutes | Rating: 4 (303 reviews) | Comments: 108 comments

Introduction

This reimagined BLT elevates the summer classic with wavy, thin-cut bacon—a texture revelation that mimics the satisfying crunch of potato chips, balancing saltiness with crispness in every bite. Oven-cooked for even heat distribution, this recipe prioritizes structural integrity: irregularly layered bacon ensures airflow, while thin-sliced iceberg lettuce and carefully prepared tomatoes create a harmonious contrast of crispy, soft, and sweet.

Ingredients (Serves 1)

  • 4 slices wavy, thin-cut bacon (80–100g; key for texture)

  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes (200–250g total; e.g., Roma or beefsteak), thinly sliced

  • ½ cup iceberg lettuce, very thinly sliced (or torn into small pieces)

  • 2 slices crusty bread (toasted lightly for extra crunch)

  • Optional: Light spread of mayonnaise or Dijon mustard (to enhance moisture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Cook Bacon

  • Oven Prep: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Bacon Arrangement: Place bacon slices on the sheet, spacing them apart for airflow (irregular layering prevents clumping and ensures even crispness).

  • Baking Time: Cook for 15–18 minutes. Check at 15 minutes—bacon is done when edges are golden and no pink fat remains. Note: Oven temps vary; for convection ovens, reduce to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare Tomatoes & Lettuce

  • Tomatoes: Thinly slice (3–4mm) and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (critical for preventing sogginess).

  • Lettuce: Tear into small, uniform pieces or slice into fine strips (iceberg’s crisp texture amplifies crunch).

3. Toast Bread

  • Lightly toast bread on both sides until golden. Skip if using ultra-crusty bread (its natural crispness suffices).

4. Assemble the BLT

  • Spread (Optional): Add mayonnaise or mustard to one side of each bread slice (if using).

  • Layer 1: Place first bread slice, spread-side down. Top with irregularly layered bacon (no overlapping gaps).

  • Layer 2: Add tomato slices in a single layer (even coverage).

  • Layer 3: Top with iceberg lettuce, pressing gently to distribute.

  • Close: Sandwich with the second bread slice, pressing lightly to compress layers.

Pro Tips

  • Bacon Consistency: For extra crispness, cool bacon slightly after baking before assembling—residual heat melts fat and intensifies crunch.

  • Tomato Selection: Choose firm, ripe tomatoes with minimal soft spots; slicing against the grain prevents uneven edges.

  • Balance: Equal portions of bacon, tomato, and lettuce ensure no single element dominates—adjust based on bread size.

This BLT marries classic summer flavors with technical precision, delivering a crispy, vibrant sandwich that redefines the season’s most beloved comfort food.