Panini Recipes

13 Panini Recipes: Quick and Delicious Taste

Panini recipes are a great way to spice up your lunch routine. These grilled sandwiches are easy to make and can be filled with all sorts of tasty ingredients.

I love how versatile paninis are. You can use different breads, cheeses, meats, and veggies to create endless flavor combinations.

I’ve listed 13 delicious panini recipes that are sure to satisfy your sandwich cravings. From classic Italian-inspired options to more unique creations, there’s something here for everyone.

These recipes are simple enough for beginners but have enough flair to impress at a casual get-together.

Get ready to fire up your panini press or grill pan and try some new sandwich ideas.

1: Classic Italian Panini

I love making a classic Italian panini for lunch. It’s simple but so tasty.

I start with crusty Italian bread and add slices of mozzarella, tomato, and basil.

Sometimes, I include prosciutto or salami, too. A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds extra flavor. Then, I grill it until the cheese melts and the bread crisps.

Classic Italian Panini Recipe

Classic Italian Panini

Ingredients

  • Crusty Italian bread
  • Slices of mozzarella cheese
  • Tomato slices
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Prosciutto or salami (optional)
  • Olive oil
  • Balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or panini press.
  2. Drizzle olive oil on the inside of each slice of Italian bread.
  3. Layer mozzarella cheese, tomato slices, and basil leaves on one slice of bread. Add prosciutto or salami if using.
  4. Drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar.
  5. Top with the second slice of bread.
  6. Grill or press the sandwich until the cheese melts and the bread is crispy and golden brown.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

This classic Italian panini is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients and condiments.

2: Chicken Pesto Panini

I love making chicken pesto paninis. They’re easy and taste great.

I start by coating chicken breasts with pesto, salt, and spices.

Then I cook the chicken in a hot pan until it’s golden brown. While it cooks, I spread pesto on ciabatta bread slices.

I add the cooked chicken, some mozzarella, and tomato slices to the bread. Then I grill the sandwich until it’s crispy and the cheese melts.

Chicken Pesto Panini Recipe

Chicken Pesto Panini

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts
  • Pesto sauce
  • Salt and spices (to taste)
  • Ciabatta bread
  • Mozzarella cheese slices
  • Tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Preheat your pan or panini press.
  2. Coat the chicken breasts with pesto, salt, and spices.
  3. Cook the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. While the chicken cooks, spread pesto on the ciabatta bread slices.
  5. Once the chicken is done, slice it and place it on one slice of bread.
  6. Add mozzarella and tomato slices on top of the chicken.
  7. Top with the other slice of bread.
  8. Grill the sandwich until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

This Chicken Pesto Panini is perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. Customize with your favorite additions for extra flavor.

3: Caprese Panini

I love making Caprese paninis. They’re simple and tasty.

I start with ciabatta bread sliced in half.

On one side, I spread basil pesto. The other gets a drizzle of olive oil.

Next, I layer on fresh mozzarella slices and juicy tomatoes. A sprinkle of salt brings out the flavors.

I grill the sandwich until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden and crispy. The result is a perfect blend of Italian flavors.

Caprese Panini Recipe

Caprese Panini

Ingredients

  • Ciabatta bread
  • Basil pesto
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh mozzarella slices
  • Tomato slices
  • Salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or panini press.
  2. Slice the ciabatta bread in half.
  3. Spread basil pesto on one side of the bread and drizzle olive oil on the other side.
  4. Layer fresh mozzarella slices and juicy tomato slices on the pesto side.
  5. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
  6. Top with the other slice of bread.
  7. Grill the sandwich until the cheese melts and the bread is golden and crispy.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy the Italian flavors!

Notes

This Caprese Panini is a quick and delicious way to enjoy classic Italian flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or snack.

4: Turkey Bacon Avocado Panini

I love making this tasty sandwich for lunch. It’s a great combo of flavors and textures.

I start with thick slices of bread and layer on turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado.

I also add some cheese and tomato slices. Then, I brush the outside with olive oil or butter and pop it in my panini press until the bread is golden and crisp.

The warm, melty cheese goes so well with the other ingredients. It’s filling and satisfying. This panini is perfect for using up leftover turkey after Thanksgiving.

Turkey Bacon Avocado Panini Recipe

Turkey Bacon Avocado Panini

Ingredients

  • Thick slices of bread
  • Turkey slices
  • Crispy bacon strips
  • Creamy avocado, sliced
  • Cheese slices (e.g., Swiss or cheddar)
  • Tomato slices
  • Olive oil or butter (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your panini press or grill.
  2. Layer turkey slices, crispy bacon, avocado slices, cheese, and tomato slices on one slice of bread.
  3. Top with the other slice of bread.
  4. Brush the outside of the bread with olive oil or butter.
  5. Grill in the panini press or on a grill until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

This Turkey Bacon Avocado Panini is a delicious way to use up leftover turkey. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying lunch or snack.

5: Three Cheese Panini

I love making Three Cheese Paninis. They’re a delicious twist on grilled cheese.

I use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and gorgonzola for amazing flavor.

I start by buttering the outside of the ciabatta bread. Then I layer the cheeses inside. I grill it until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts.

Sometimes, I add extras like tomato or pesto for more taste. It’s a quick, tasty lunch that always hits the spot.

Three Cheese Panini Recipe

Three Cheese Panini

Ingredients

  • Ciabatta bread
  • Butter (for spreading)
  • 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/3 cup provolone cheese, shredded
  • 1/3 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
  • Optional: Tomato slices, pesto

Instructions

  1. Preheat your panini press or grill.
  2. Butter the outside of the ciabatta bread slices.
  3. Layer the mozzarella, provolone, and gorgonzola cheeses inside one slice of bread. Add tomato slices or pesto if desired.
  4. Top with the other slice of bread.
  5. Grill in the panini press or on a grill until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

This Three Cheese Panini is a decadent twist on the classic grilled cheese. The mix of cheeses adds depth and richness to every bite.

6: BBQ Pulled Pork Panini

I love making BBQ pulled pork paninis. They’re a tasty way to use leftover pork roast.

I start by cooking the pork in a slow cooker until it’s tender and easy to shred.

Next, I layer the pulled pork on sourdough bread with BBQ sauce and cheese. Swiss cheese works great. I also like to add caramelized onions for extra flavor.

I grill the sandwich in a panini press until it’s crispy on the outside and melty inside. The result is a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

BBQ Pulled Pork Panini Recipe

BBQ Pulled Pork Panini

Ingredients

  • Leftover pulled pork
  • Sourdough bread
  • BBQ sauce
  • Swiss cheese (or cheese of choice)
  • Caramelized onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pork in a slow cooker until tender and shred it with a fork.
  2. Preheat your panini press or grill.
  3. Layer pulled pork on a slice of sourdough bread.
  4. Top with BBQ sauce, Swiss cheese, and caramelized onions if using.
  5. Add another slice of bread on top.
  6. Grill in the panini press until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

This BBQ Pulled Pork Panini is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover pork roast into a satisfying and delicious sandwich.

7: Buffalo Chicken Panini

I love making Buffalo Chicken Paninis for a tasty lunch or dinner. They’re easy to put together and packed with flavor.

I start by mixing cooked chicken with spicy buffalo sauce. Then I spread blue cheese dressing on bread slices.

I layer the saucy chicken, some celery, and extra blue cheese between the bread. A quick press in the panini maker crisps it up perfectly.

The result is a hot, melty sandwich with that classic buffalo wing taste. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken.

Buffalo Chicken Panini Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Panini

Ingredients

  • Cooked chicken, shredded
  • Buffalo sauce
  • Blue cheese dressing
  • Ciabatta or sourdough bread
  • Celery, sliced
  • Blue cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce to coat it evenly.
  2. Spread blue cheese dressing on slices of bread.
  3. Layer the buffalo chicken on one slice of bread.
  4. Add celery slices and crumbled blue cheese if desired.
  5. Top with another slice of bread.
  6. Grill in a panini maker until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, tangy flavors!

Notes

This Buffalo Chicken Panini is a great way to use leftover chicken and adds a kick of flavor with buffalo sauce. Perfect for lunch or a casual dinner!

8: Ham and Swiss Panini

I love making ham and Swiss paninis for a quick lunch. They’re so easy and tasty.

I start with two slices of bread and spread a thin layer of mustard on each.

Then, I layer on some sliced ham and Swiss cheese. I put the sandwich in a preheated panini press for about 4 minutes.

The result is a warm, crispy panini with gooey melted cheese. It’s simple but satisfying. I sometimes add a slice of tomato for extra flavor.

Ham and Swiss Panini Recipe

Ham and Swiss Panini

Ingredients

  • 2 slices of bread
  • Mustard
  • Sliced ham
  • Sliced Swiss cheese
  • Optional: Sliced tomato

Instructions

  1. Spread a thin layer of mustard on each slice of bread.
  2. Layer sliced ham and Swiss cheese on one slice of bread.
  3. Add sliced tomato if desired.
  4. Top with the other slice of bread.
  5. Place the sandwich in a preheated panini press and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  6. Remove from the press and serve warm.

Notes

This Ham and Swiss Panini is a quick and easy lunch option that delivers a satisfying crunch and gooey cheese. For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a slice of tomato.

9: Roast Beef and Cheddar Panini

I love making roast beef and cheddar paninis. They’re easy and tasty.

I start with two slices of bread and brush the outside with olive oil.

On the inside, I spread some horseradish sauce. Then I layer on sliced roast beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and some thinly sliced red onion.

I cook the sandwich in a hot panini press for 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown and the cheese is melted. The crispy bread and warm, gooey filling are so good together.

Roast Beef and Cheddar Panini Recipe

Roast Beef and Cheddar Panini

Ingredients

  • 2 slices of bread
  • Olive oil
  • Horseradish sauce
  • Sliced roast beef
  • Sharp cheddar cheese
  • Thinly sliced red onion

Instructions

  1. Brush the outside of each slice of bread with olive oil.
  2. Spread horseradish sauce on the inside of each slice of bread.
  3. Layer sliced roast beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and thinly sliced red onion on one slice of bread.
  4. Top with the other slice of bread.
  5. Cook the sandwich in a hot panini press for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  6. Remove from the press and serve warm.

Notes

This Roast Beef and Cheddar Panini combines crispy bread with a warm, gooey filling for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Adjust the amount of horseradish sauce to your taste for extra kick.

10: Veggie Delight Panini

I love making this veggie-packed panini for a quick lunch.

I start with whole-grain bread and spread it with pesto.

Then I layer on grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, and fresh spinach leaves. A slice of mozzarella cheese adds creaminess.

I press it in my panini maker until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts. The flavors blend beautifully in this satisfying meatless sandwich.

Veggie Delight Panini Recipe

Veggie Delight Panini

Ingredients

  • Whole-grain bread
  • Pesto
  • Grilled zucchini slices
  • Roasted red peppers
  • Fresh spinach leaves
  • Slice of mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Spread pesto on one side of each slice of whole-grain bread.
  2. Layer grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, and fresh spinach leaves on one slice of bread.
  3. Add a slice of mozzarella cheese on top.
  4. Top with the other slice of bread, pesto side down.
  5. Press the sandwich in a panini maker until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  6. Remove from the maker and serve warm.

Notes

This Veggie Delight Panini is packed with flavors and is a great meatless option for a quick, satisfying lunch. Feel free to add extra veggies or a spread of your choice.

11: Grilled Portobello Panini

I love making grilled portobello paninis for a tasty vegetarian sandwich option. The meaty texture of portobello mushrooms makes them perfect for this dish.

To make it, I grill sliced portobello caps with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, I layer them on ciabatta bread with melted fontina cheese and roasted red peppers.

For extra flavor, I sometimes add a spread like herbed mayo or artichoke tapenade. A handful of fresh arugula also gives it a nice peppery crunch.

Grilled Portobello Panini Recipe

Grilled Portobello Panini

Ingredients

  • Sliced portobello mushroom caps
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Ciabatta bread
  • Melted fontina cheese
  • Roasted red peppers
  • Herbed mayo or artichoke tapenade (optional)
  • Fresh arugula (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill. Brush sliced portobello caps with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Grill the portobello slices until tender and slightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. On ciabatta bread, layer the grilled portobello, melted fontina cheese, and roasted red peppers.
  4. If desired, spread herbed mayo or artichoke tapenade on the bread and add a handful of fresh arugula.
  5. Grill the sandwich in a panini maker until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
  6. Remove from the press and serve warm.

Notes

This Grilled Portobello Panini offers a delicious vegetarian option with a hearty texture. Customize with your favorite spreads and greens for added flavor.

12: Prosciutto and Provolone Panini

I love making prosciutto and provolone panini. It’s a tasty Italian-inspired sandwich that’s easy to put together.

I start with good Italian bread and brush it with olive oil. Then, I layer on thin slices of prosciutto and provolone cheese.

Sometimes, I add a spread of pesto or sliced tomatoes for extra flavor. I grill the sandwich until the bread is golden and the cheese melts.

Prosciutto and Provolone Panini Recipe

Prosciutto and Provolone Panini

Ingredients

  • Good Italian bread
  • Olive oil
  • Thin slices of prosciutto
  • Provolone cheese
  • Pesto or sliced tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brush the Italian bread slices with olive oil.
  2. Layer thin slices of prosciutto and provolone cheese on one slice of bread.
  3. If desired, spread pesto or add sliced tomatoes for extra flavor.
  4. Top with the second slice of bread and grill the sandwich until the bread is golden and the cheese melts.

Notes

This Prosciutto and Provolone Panini offers a delicious Italian twist on the classic grilled cheese. Customize with your favorite spreads and extras for added flavor.

13: Mediterranean Veggie Panini

I love making Mediterranean veggie paninis. They’re packed with tasty ingredients like roasted red peppers, olives, and feta cheese.

I start by spreading hummus on ciabatta bread. Then, I layer on spinach, onions, and tomatoes.

The final touch is a sprinkle of crumbled feta. I brush the outside with olive oil before grilling.

The result is a crispy, flavorful sandwich that’s both satisfying and meat-free.

Mediterranean Veggie Panini Recipe

Mediterranean Veggie Panini

Ingredients

  • Ciabatta bread
  • Hummus
  • Fresh spinach
  • Roasted red peppers
  • Sliced onions
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Crumpled feta cheese
  • Olive oil

Instructions

  1. Spread hummus on slices of ciabatta bread.
  2. Layer on spinach, roasted red peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
  3. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
  4. Brush the outside of the bread with olive oil.
  5. Grill the sandwich until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Notes

This Mediterranean Veggie Panini is a flavorful, meat-free option that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of hummus, fresh veggies, and feta cheese makes it both delicious and nutritious.

The Basics of Making a Panini

  • A panini is a grilled sandwich, typically made with Italian bread, filled with various ingredients such as meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
  • To make a panini, you will need a panini press or a grill pan with a weighted top to press the sandwich while cooking.
  • Start by selecting your bread; ciabatta, focaccia, or baguette are popular choices for panini sandwiches.
  • Slice the bread horizontally, creating a top and bottom piece for your sandwich.
  • You can choose your fillings, such as cured meats (prosciutto, salami), cheeses (mozzarella, provolone), vegetables (tomatoes, roasted peppers), and condiments (pesto, mustard).
  • Arrange the fillings on the bottom slice of bread, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
  • Place the top slice of bread on the fillings, and brush the outer sides of the bread with olive oil or butter to promote even browning and crispiness.
  • Preheat your panini press or grill pan over medium heat.
  • Place the assembled sandwich on the press or grill pan and close the lid, applying gentle pressure to compress it.
  • Grill the panini for 3-5 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted.
  • Remove the panini from the heat, let it cool slightly, and slice it diagonally before serving.
  • Experiment with different bread types, fillings, and condiments to create your unique panini combinations.

Nutritional Benefits of Panini Recipes

  • The nutritional value of a panini depends on the ingredients used, but with the right combinations, panini sandwiches can offer a balanced meal.
  • Whole grain bread provides fiber, aids digestion, promotes feelings of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
  • Lean proteins, such as grilled chicken, turkey, or ham, are excellent sources of essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair.
  • When used in moderation, cheese can provide calcium, protein, and vitamin B12, essential for bone health, muscle function, and red blood cell formation.
  • Incorporating a variety of vegetables in your panini, such as spinach, tomatoes, and roasted peppers, adds vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your meal.
  • Vegetables like spinach and tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function, skin health, and iron absorption.
  • Roasted peppers contain vitamin C and carotenoids, which have antioxidant properties that may help protect cells from damage.
  • Healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocado, or nut butter, can provide heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
  • Opting for low-sodium ingredients and condiments can help control salt intake, essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
  • Preparing panini at home lets you control portion sizes and ingredient quality, ensuring a more nutritious meal than commercially prepared sandwiches.
  • By making informed choices about bread, fillings, and condiments, you can create delicious and nutritious panini recipes that support your overall health and well-being.

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