The humble panini has come a long way from its Italian origins as a simple grilled cheese sandwich. Today, this versatile sandwich has evolved into a global culinary phenomenon, with endless possibilities for fillings and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or an impressive appetizer for a dinner party, the panini is an ideal choice.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 20 mouth-watering panini recipes that cater to every taste and occasion. From classic combinations like prosciutto and mozzarella to more adventurous options like spicy tuna melt and vegan eggplant tahini, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious panini sandwiches.
So, what are you waiting for? Let the panini party begin!
Classic Italian Panini with Prosciutto and Mozzarella
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant panini recipe, featuring crispy prosciutto and melted mozzarella cheese on a crusty baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of high-quality prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 large baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place 2-3 slices of prosciutto on each baguette slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top the prosciutto with mozzarella cheese slices.
5. Place the baguette slices in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh arugula leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Pesto Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Grilled Chicken and Pesto Panini recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 4 Italian-style sandwiches ( Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast sandwiches by grilling them for 1 minute on each side.
5. Spread a layer of pesto on each toasted sandwich.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of the pesto.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
8. Assemble sandwiches and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caprese Panini with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your panini game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring the classic combination of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil. The tangy balsamic glaze adds a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Layer the bread with mozzarella cheese, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves.
3. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of each sandwich.
4. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Panini with Chipotle Mayo
Savory turkey and creamy avocado come together in a flavorful panini, elevated by the spicy kick of chipotle mayo.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole wheat bread
– 2 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp chipotle mayonnaise (see note)
– 1 lettuce leaf
– 1 tomato slice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread 1/2 tsp of chipotle mayo on each bread slice.
3. Top with turkey, avocado, lettuce, and tomato.
4. Place in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, until crispy and melted.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Note: To make chipotle mayonnaise, mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp lime juice, and 1-2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (depending on desired level of spiciness). Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Reuben Panini with Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
A twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, this panini recipe combines tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and crispy rye bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 1/2 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the panini press or grill.
4. Top with a slice of corned beef, followed by sauerkraut and Swiss cheese.
5. Place another slice of bread on top, buttered side up.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per sandwich
Mediterranean Veggie Panini with Hummus
A flavorful and healthy sandwich that combines the richness of hummus with the freshness of Mediterranean vegetables, all wrapped up in a crispy panini.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1/4 cup of hummus
– 1/2 cup of sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup of sliced zucchini
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one slice of bread with hummus, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top the hummus with sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and parsley.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top of the vegetables.
5. Brush the tops of the bread with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the panini in the press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Panini with Coleslaw
Transform a classic pulled pork sandwich into a gourmet panini, paired with a refreshing coleslaw for the perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound BBQ pulled pork
– 4 slices of artisanal bread ( Ciabatta or baguette)
– 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup of coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the bread slices on both sides.
3. Place two slices of bread in the press or grill.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of BBQ pulled pork onto each slice.
5. Drizzle with BBQ sauce and top with coleslaw.
6. Place the remaining bread slices on top to complete the panini.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bread is toasted and the pork is heated through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Tips:
– Use leftover pulled pork or make your own using a slow cooker.
– Customize with additional toppings like pickles or jalapeños.
– Serve immediately to ensure the coleslaw stays crisp.
Ham and Swiss Panini with Dijon Mustard
Elevate your lunch game with this classic combination of savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy Dijon mustard on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 4 slices of cooked ham
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place a slice of ham on the unbuttered side of two bread slices, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese.
4. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard on top of the cheese.
5. Top with another bread slice, buttered side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Panini with Peppers and Onions
Experience the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, transformed into a crispy panini.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Italian bread (e.g. Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 1 lb sliced ribeye steak
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced
– 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of steak, some onions, and bell peppers on each bread slice.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill, buttered-side down.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Panini
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast panini packed with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Baguette work well)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Fresh parsley leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, scramble the eggs and set aside.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Assemble the panini by placing 2 slices of bread, buttered-side down, followed by 2 slices of bacon, 1/4 cup scrambled eggs, and 1/4 cup shredded cheese.
5. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side up.
6. Place the panini in the press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Portobello Mushroom and Goat Cheese Panini
This panini combines the earthy flavor of Portobello mushrooms with the creamy tang of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Portobello mushrooms
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth. Remove stems and gills.
3. Brush mushroom caps with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Grill mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, butter baguette slices on both sides.
6. Assemble panini by placing a grilled mushroom cap on each baguette slice, followed by a spoonful of goat cheese.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Tuna Melt Panini with Jalapeños
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and spicy panini! This recipe combines the freshness of tuna, the kick of jalapeños, and the creaminess of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 slices of bread (preferably Italian or French baguette)
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, olive oil, mayonnaise, cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the panini by spreading tuna mixture on one slice of bread, then adding sliced jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and another slice of bread.
4. Place the panini in the press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Greek Gyro Panini with Tzatziki Sauce
A flavorful twist on the classic gyro, this panini combines tender lamb and beef, crispy pita bread, and a refreshing dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb and beef (50/50)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Red onion slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb and beef, onion, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place the patties onto the preheated panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Meanwhile, toast the pita breads by grilling them for about 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading tzatziki sauce on the toasted pita bread, followed by a cooked patty, lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and red onion slices.
Tzatziki Sauce Recipe:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the panini press or grill)
Apple, Brie, and Honey Panini
This panini combines the sweetness of apples with the creaminess of brie cheese and the warmth of honey, all nestled between crispy bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of baguette
– 1/4 cup of apple butter
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (softened)
– 1/2 apple, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one slice of baguette with apple butter and top with the softened brie cheese.
3. Arrange the sliced apple on top of the brie.
4. Drizzle the honey over the apple.
5. Place the second slice of baguette on top to create a sandwich.
6. Place the panini in the press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Panini with Blue Cheese
A spicy twist on a classic panini, this Buffalo chicken sandwich combines the bold flavors of buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese crumbles with crispy chicken and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 4 slices of Italian bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 4 slices mozzarella cheese
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together buffalo wing sauce and 1 tablespoon of butter until well combined.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with the buffalo mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or cook the chicken in the panini press for 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter on each bread slice, followed by a slice of chicken, some blue cheese crumbles, and finally a slice of mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with lettuce and tomato if desired, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roast Beef and Cheddar Panini with Horseradish
Roast Beef and Cheddar Panini with Horseradish Recipe
Get ready to elevate your lunch game with this mouth-watering panini! Thinly sliced roast beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a kick of spicy horseradish come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roast beef (thinly sliced)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or similar)
– 2 tablespoons cheddar cheese, shredded
– 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Layer roast beef, cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt on the unbuttered side of two slices of bread.
4. Spread 1 teaspoon of horseradish on top of the cheese.
5. Top with remaining bread slices (butter-side up).
6. Place in panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Panini
This Italian-inspired sandwich combines the flavors of pesto chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 2 slices mozzarella cheese
– 2 baguette halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and pesto.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken with the pesto mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette halves.
6. Assemble the panini by spreading sun-dried tomatoes on one half, followed by mixed greens, grilled chicken, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with the remaining baguette half and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Panini with Grilled Eggplant and Tahini
A creamy and savory twist on the classic panini, this vegan version features grilled eggplant and tahini for a rich and satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (preferably a crusty Italian or French bread)
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, mix together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the panini by spreading a layer of tahini mixture on one slice of bread, then topping with grilled eggplant slices and finishing with another slice of bread.
6. Grill the sandwich in a panini press or under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cuban Panini with Ham, Pork, and Pickles
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba in this unique panini recipe, featuring a blend of ham, pork, pickles, and melted cheese on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or Italian bread)
– 2 oz. thinly sliced ham
– 2 oz. thinly sliced roasted pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles
– 2 tbsp. butter, softened
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place a slice of bread, butter-side down, in the panini press or grill.
4. Top with a slice of ham, a few pieces of roasted pork, and some chopped pickles.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling.
6. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Monte Cristo Panini with Raspberry Jam
Elevate your panini game with this sweet and savory twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (preferably a crusty baguette)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons of raspberry jam
– 2 ham slices (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 2 turkey breast slices (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese (about 1/8 inch thick)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place a ham slice, followed by a turkey breast slice, and finally a cheese slice on one bread slice, buttered-side down.
4. Spread 1 tablespoon of raspberry jam on the other bread slice, buttered-side up.
5. Assemble the sandwich by placing the jam-topped bread slice on top of the meat and cheese layer.
6. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these 20 delicious panini recipes! From classic Italian combinations like prosciutto and mozzarella, to bold flavors like grilled chicken and pesto or spicy tuna melt, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying lunch or a satisfying dinner, these panini sandwiches are sure to hit the spot. With a range of ingredients and flavor combinations, you’ll never get bored with this versatile list of recipes.
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