Ultimate BLT Sandwich Recipe with Creamy Special Sauce

Oh, the BLT. Just saying the name conjures up images of lazy summer afternoons, backyard BBQs, and that unmistakable, comforting aroma. It’s one of those classic American sandwiches that just never gets old. But what if I told you we could take this beloved favorite and elevate it to a whole new level? Get ready for a BLT experience that’s a little bit nostalgic, incredibly delicious, and surprisingly easy to whip up. This BLT sandwich with our special sauce is destined to become your new go-to for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a delightful picnic treat.

Why You’ll Love BLT Sandwich with Special Sauce

• Fast: Seriously, this comes together in a flash, perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Easy: No fancy techniques here, just simple steps that anyone can follow.
• Giftable: While you can’t exactly “gift” a sandwich, the ingredients and the confidence you’ll gain from making it are totally giftable!
• Crowd-pleasing: Who doesn’t love a good BLT? This version is sure to be a hit with everyone from your picky eaters to your most discerning foodie friends.

Ingredients

Let’s gather everything you need for this flavor-packed sandwich. The quality of your ingredients really shines through here, so grab the good stuff!

• 8 slices of bread, cut 1/2” thick: Your favorite sturdy bread works best. Sourdough, whole wheat, or even a good country white bread are fantastic choices.
• 1 1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter: For that perfect golden-brown toast.
• 12 slices bacon, regular sliced: Because no BLT is complete without crispy bacon!
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, thickly sliced: Summer’s bounty at its finest. Look for juicy, flavorful tomatoes.
• 4 green lettuce leaves, rinsed and spun dry: Crisp lettuce adds that essential freshness and crunch.
• 1 large avocado, or 2 small avocados, pitted, peeled, and sliced: Hello, creamy goodness! Avocado is such a welcome addition.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: To bring out all those beautiful flavors.

For the Special Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for our sauce.
• 2 Tbsp sour cream: Adds a delightful tang and extra creaminess.
• 2 tsp yellow mustard: A little kick to wake up your taste buds.

How to Make BLT Sandwich with Special Sauce

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps and prepare for sandwich bliss.

1. Crisp Up That Bacon: First things first, let’s get that bacon perfectly crispy. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil (this makes clean-up a breeze!). Arrange your bacon slices in a single layer on the foil. Pop them in the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they’re wonderfully browned and deliciously crisp. Once they’re done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease and cool down a bit.
2. Whip Up the Special Sauce: While the bacon is doing its thing, let’s make our magic sauce. Grab a small bowl and combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and yellow mustard. Give it a good mix until everything is nicely blended. Set this aside – it’s going to be the star of the show!
3. Toast the Bread to Perfection: Now, let’s get that bread golden and toasty. Lightly butter both sides of each slice of bread. Heat a dry griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Toast your bread slices until they’re beautifully golden brown on both sides. This step is crucial for that satisfying crunch that holds up to all the delicious fillings.
4. Assemble Your Masterpiece: Time to build these beauties! On a clean cutting board, lay out four of your perfectly toasted bread slices. Spread about 1 tablespoon of our special sauce evenly over each slice. Now, layer on the fresh lettuce, those thick tomato slices, your crispy bacon, and those creamy avocado slices. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the avocado to really enhance its flavor.
5. Top It Off and Enjoy: Spread another tablespoon of our special sauce over each of the remaining four toasted bread slices. Place these sauce-side down on top of your assembled sandwiches. If you like, you can cut them in half for easier handling. Serve them up immediately and get ready for a flavor explosion!

Substitutions & Additions

While this BLT is pretty spectacular as is, feel free to get creative! This recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious variations. If you’re not a fan of avocado, no worries – you can skip it or try some thinly sliced cucumber for a different kind of crunch. Love cheese? A slice of sharp cheddar or provolone would be amazing. For a little extra flair, consider adding some of our quick pickled red onions for a pop of acidity and color. And if you’re feeling adventurous, perhaps try swapping out the lettuce for some peppery arugula. This sandwich is as adaptable as it is delicious!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your BLT is absolutely perfect every time? Here are a few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Bacon: Make sure your bacon has enough space on the baking sheet so it fries evenly and gets nice and crispy, rather than steaming.
• Dry Your Lettuce Well: A salad spinner is your best friend here. Excess water can make your sandwich soggy, and nobody wants that!
• Toast for Texture: Properly toasted bread is key to preventing a soggy sandwich, especially if you’re making them ahead.
• Prep Ahead: You can make the special sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using. Cooked bacon can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a day or two.
• Avocado Perfection: If your avocados aren’t quite ripe, you can try placing them in a brown paper bag with a banana or apple overnight. The ethylene gas will help them ripen faster.

How to Store BLT Sandwich with Special Sauce

BLTs are definitely best enjoyed fresh off the griddle. However, if you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to handle them. It’s best to store the components separately if you know you won’t be eating it right away. Cooked bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The special sauce will also keep well in the fridge for about a week. As for the assembled sandwich, it’s really not ideal for storage due to the tomatoes and avocado, which can get mushy. If you absolutely must, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for no more than a few hours, but be prepared for a slightly less crisp experience.

FAQs

Q1: Can I grill the bread instead of toasting it on a skillet?

Absolutely! Grilling your bread slices on a grill or grill pan will give them a wonderful smoky flavor and those classic grill marks. Just be sure to butter them first for that perfect char.

Q2: What other types of bread work well for a BLT?

Almost any bread can work! Thick-cut challah, brioche, or even a hearty multigrain loaf are all fantastic options. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings. You might even enjoy trying it on some toasted fried bologna sandwich style bread for a fun twist!

Q3: Can I make this a BLATT (Bacon, Lettuce, Avocado, Tomato, and Turkey)?

Yes, you can! Adding sliced turkey is a wonderful way to make this sandwich even more substantial. It’s a great way to get more protein and flavor into your meal.

We hope you enjoy making and devouring this amazing BLT with Special Sauce! Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes and follow us on Pinterest!