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There might not be a more universally beloved sandwich than the BLT. By combining bacon, lettuce, and tomato, you create a true comfort classic. It's a master class in balancing flavors: the crunchy, salty bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce held together by a layer of creamy mayo and toasted bread. 

It's fair to suggest that a perfect sandwich like the BLT doesn't need any tinkering, but there's always room for some improvement. The take on the BLT we're going to suggest doesn't have to push the classic onto the sidelines. It's a simple upgrade with thoughtful ingredients that will elevate it, even a little. 

Let's look at a few simple upgrades you can make to the BLT, and we urge you to give them a shot the next time you make this amazing sandwich for lunch. 

A Better Foundation

The BLT Foundation starts where all of the best sandwiches begin, and that's with the bread. Forget about using basic white toast. Instead, opt for a lightly grilled sourdough. The hint of tanginess in the sourdough adds some depth and dimension to the sandwich, especially when you give the bread a quick grill before assembly. 

Grilled sourdough also provides a sturdier structure to the sandwich. There's less risk of it falling apart than if you used white bread, as it can better hold up to juicy tomatoes and bacon with a bit of grease on it. Make sure to brush some butter or olive oil on the bread before grilling it. 

Then, you need to think about the bacon, the heart of the sandwich. Try using thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, which will easily become the star of the sandwich. Cook it in the oven, rather than a pan, to reach the ideal level of caramelization and crispiness. Another tip is to lightly brush the bacon with maple and black pepper during the last few minutes of cooking. This will add a touch of sweetness to balance the tomato's acidity.

Focus on Produce

Tomato is the perfect co-star to bacon, as it enhances it without stealing the show. Replace the tomatoes you normally use with heirloom tomatoes, looking for ones with deep color and a touch of natural sweetness. Their juiciness elevates the sandwich into something more gourmet. Don't forget the pinch of flaky salt on the tomato slice before completing the sandwich. 

We'll admit it: lettuce is the least exciting part of the BLT, but that doesn't mean you should take it for granted. Use a combination of romaine and butter lettuce instead of iceberg. The romaine will add some crunch, and the butter lettuce is delicate and fresh. 

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Mayo Is the Secret Weapon

A BLT without mayo is like a day without sun. Replace Miracle Whip with lemon-garlic mayo to add brightness and enhance the sandwich's depth of flavor. All you have to do is mix real mayo with some garlic and a squeeze of lemon. You can also add a touch of Dijon if you're looking for a more complex flavor. 

Sauce fans can also add a thin layer of basil pesto under the mayo. This provides a herbal note that won't overpower the other flavors. It's also a fun nod to caprese flavors while not deviating too much from the classic recipe. 

The beauty of the BLT lies in its simplicity and flavor combinations. By making slight adjustments to each component, such as better bread, seasoned bacon, upgraded produce, and a more gourmet mayo, you create a richer, crisper, and juicier sandwich.