The humble panini – a simple yet satisfying sandwich that can be elevated to new heights with the right combination of ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a snack to fuel your afternoon, or a satisfying dinner option, panini sandwiches are the perfect solution. And with their versatility and endless possibilities, it’s no wonder why they’ve become a staple in many cuisines around the world.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious panini sandwich recipes that cater to every taste and occasion. From classic Italian combinations to bold and spicy options, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a meat-lover, vegetarian, or just looking for something new to try, there’s sure to be a panini recipe on this list that catches your eye.
So, let’s dive in and start exploring the world of panini sandwiches!
Classic Italian Panini with Prosciutto and Mozzarella
Classic Italian Panini with Prosciutto and Mozzarella
Experience the quintessential flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying panini recipe, featuring crispy prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, and a hint of freshness from crisp lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Ciabatta bread
– 8 oz prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup arugula or mixed greens
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay two slices of Ciabatta bread on a clean surface.
3. Top each slice with a layer of prosciutto, followed by mozzarella cheese and arugula.
4. Place the other two slices of bread on top to form a sandwich.
5. Cook the panini for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Pesto Panini
Elevate your panini game with this mouthwatering combination of grilled chicken, creamy pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 4 slices of bread (Italian-style or baguette)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast bread slices by grilling them for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Spread pesto on toasted bread, followed by a slice of grilled chicken, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a dollop of butter.
6. Assemble panini and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes chicken grilling time)
Caprese Panini with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze
A classic Italian-inspired sandwich that combines the flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This panini is elevated by a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze, adding depth and complexity to this simple yet satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of mozzarella on each bread slice, followed by a tomato round and a sprinkle of basil leaves.
3. Place the sandwiches in the press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the sandwiches and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note: To make balsamic glaze, reduce 1 cup of balsamic vinegar on low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened and syrupy.
Turkey and Avocado Panini with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful panini, featuring crispy turkey, creamy avocado, and a spicy kick from chipotle mayo.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as Ciabatta or baguette)
– 4 oz sliced deli turkey breast
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp chipotle mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay the bread slices on a flat surface, buttered side down.
3. Layer the turkey breast, mashed avocado, chipotle mayonnaise, lettuce leaves, and tomato slices on one slice of bread.
4. Place the other slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Grill or press the panini for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted (optional).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Reuben Panini with Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
A classic sandwich gets a crispy twist with this Reuben panini recipe, featuring corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1/4 pound of corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing
– 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 the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on two bread slices.
4. Drizzle with Thousand Island dressing and season with salt and pepper.
5. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Panini with Coleslaw
Elevate your lunch game with this mouth-watering BBQ pulled pork panini, paired with a refreshing coleslaw. The perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound BBQ pulled pork
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions
– 2 slices American cheese
– 1/4 cup coleslaw (see below for recipe)
– Coleslaw ingredients: 2 cups shredded cabbage, 1 cup shredded carrots, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the hoagie rolls.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading caramelized onions on the bottom half of each roll, followed by a slice of American cheese, 1/4 cup of BBQ pulled pork, and finally the top half of the roll.
4. Place the panini in the press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately with a side of coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Veggie Panini with Hummus
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional paninis, this Mediterranean-inspired sandwich combines the creamy richness of hummus with the freshness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of whole grain bread
– 1/2 cup hummus
– 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (such as eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread a layer of hummus on each bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with roasted vegetables, feta cheese (if using), and a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the vegetables are warm.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Panini with Peppers and Onions
Satisfy your cravings with this twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, featuring sweet and savory peppers and onions inside a crispy panini.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Italian bread work well)
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a skillet, sauté the onions and peppers until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook the steak in a separate skillet to desired doneness.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the cooked steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and shredded cheese on two slices of bread.
5. Butter the outside of each sandwich and place in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until crispy and melted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Panini
Start your day off right with this satisfying breakfast panini, packed with crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and melted cheese on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably a crusty baguette or ciabatta)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt. Scramble in a non-stick skillet over low-medium heat until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread by placing it on the preheated panini press or grill for 1-2 minutes.
4. Assemble the paninis by spreading butter on each slice of toasted bread, then topping with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and shredded cheese.
5. Place the paninis in the panini press or grill for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spicy Tuna Melt Panini with Jalapeños
Elevate your lunch game with this bold and flavorful panini that combines the richness of tuna salad with the heat of jalapeños. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 sliced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 1 slice of cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and cilantro until well combined.
3. Place one slice of bread on a flat surface and spread the tuna salad evenly over it.
4. Top with sliced jalapeños and cheese (if using).
5. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
6. Grill or press for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Greek Gyro Panini with Tzatziki Sauce
Savor the flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make panini that combines crispy pita bread, juicy gyro meat, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Greek-style gyros (lamb or beef)
– 1 large pita bread
– Tzatziki Sauce (recipe below)
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Red onion slices
– Feta cheese crumbles
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Slice the pita bread in half lengthwise.
2. Grill or toast the gyro meat according to package instructions.
3. Assemble the panini by placing the grilled gyro meat on one half of the pita, followed by lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese.
4. Spread Tzatziki Sauce on the other half of the pita bread.
5. Place the sauce-covered side on top of the filling to create a sandwich.
6. Serve immediately and garnish with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
French Dip Panini with Au Jus
Elevate your panini game with this indulgent French dip sandwich, featuring tender roast beef and melted Swiss cheese, served with a rich au jus for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 6 oz roast beef (such as prime rib or top round)
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips and butter one side of each slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing two slices of roast beef, two slices of Swiss cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper on each baguette half.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Meanwhile, combine the beef broth and red wine (if using) in a small saucepan and simmer over low heat to create the au jus.
6. Serve the paninis with the warm au jus for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Panini with Blue Cheese
Get ready to level up your lunch game with this mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Panini, featuring crispy chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, melted blue cheese, and fresh lettuce on toasted baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 4 slices of blue cheese crumbles
– 4 baguette slices, toasted
– Lettuce leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with buffalo sauce until coated.
3. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few chicken strips on each bread slice, followed by a sprinkle of blue cheese and some lettuce leaves.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Portobello Mushroom and Swiss Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful panini featuring meaty portobello mushrooms, melted Swiss cheese, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss mushroom strips with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the mushrooms on the bread slices, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top each sandwich with Swiss cheese and close the panini press or grill.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.
6. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Ham and Cheese Panini with Dijon Mustard
A classic combination of flavors, this panini is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of artisanal bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 4 ounces of thinly sliced ham
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar 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. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Top with ham, cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the other bread slice, buttered side up, on top to form a sandwich.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Apple and Brie Panini with Honey Drizzle
Elevate your panini game with this delightful combination of crispy apple slices, creamy brie cheese, and a hint of honey sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of artisanal bread (e.g., baguette or ciabatta)
– 1 large apple, sliced into thin wedges
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 wheel of brie cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon of pure honey
– 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, butter-side down, in the panini press.
4. Top with an apple wedge, followed by a sprinkle of brie cheese.
5. Drizzle 1/4 teaspoon of honey over the brie cheese.
6. Top with another bread slice, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Cuban Panini with Roast Pork and Pickles
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful Cuban-inspired panini, featuring tender roast pork, tangy pickles, and melted Swiss cheese on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban-style bread (or similar)
– 1/2 pound roast pork, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup pickle slices
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 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. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of roast pork on each bread slice, followed by some pickle slices, and finishing with a slice of Swiss cheese.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill, buttered-side down.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwiches over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the other side is also toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful panini recipe, combining tender chicken, creamy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. pesto
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix pesto with chicken breast until well coated.
3. Place the chicken breast on one slice of bread, followed by sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Top with another slice of bread.
5. Brush the tops of the panini with olive oil and place in the press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
BLT Panini with Garlic Aioli
Elevate the humble grilled cheese sandwich with this flavorful combination of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy garlic aioli on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 2 cups of fresh lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup Garlic Aioli (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading Garlic Aioli on two slices of bread, followed by a slice of bacon, a tomato slice, some lettuce leaves, and finishing with another slice of bread.
3. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per sandwich
Peanut Butter and Banana Panini with Honey
A sweet and satisfying twist on a classic sandwich, this peanut butter and banana panini is elevated by the addition of warm honey. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one slice of bread with peanut butter.
3. Top with sliced banana.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Place the second slice of bread on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the filling is warm and melty.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your lunch game with these 20 delicious panini sandwich recipes! From classic Italian combinations like prosciutto and mozzarella, to international twists like Greek gyro and Cuban roast pork, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, sweet, or spicy, these panini recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
