Paninis are a staple of any casual gathering, from backyard barbecues to office lunchrooms. But why settle for just any old sandwich when you can elevate it to new heights with the perfect combination of ingredients and flavors? In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering panini recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends.
From classic Italian combinations to innovative twists on traditional favorites, these paninis offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying breakfast option or a decadent dessert, our recipe list has got you covered. So grab some bread, get creative, and start building your perfect panini!
Classic Italian Panini with Prosciutto and Mozzarella
A quintessential Italian sandwich that combines the salty sweetness of prosciutto, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the crispy crunch of a well-toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Italian bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 6 oz prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
– 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. Butter one side of each bread slice with olive oil.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the panini press or on the grill.
4. Top with a few slices of prosciutto, followed by mozzarella cheese and another slice of bread (butter-side up).
5. Repeat for three more sandwiches.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per sandwich
Grilled Chicken and Pesto Panini
A flavorful twist on the classic panini, this recipe combines juicy grilled chicken with creamy pesto and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Spread pesto on each bread slice. Top with grilled chicken, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Butter the outside of each sandwich and place in a panini press or grill until crispy and melted (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Panini with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate the classic Caprese salad to a new level by sandwiching it between crispy bread and topping with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rustic bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 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 mozzarella slice, a few cherry tomatoes, and some basil leaves on each bread slice (buttered side down).
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of each sandwich.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Panini with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful panini, combining tender turkey breast, creamy avocado, crunchy lettuce, and a spicy kick from chipotle mayo.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 2 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/4 cup chipotle mayonnaise (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread a layer of chipotle mayonnaise on one slice of bread.
3. Top with sliced turkey breast, mashed avocado, and mixed greens.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top to complete the panini.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note: To make chipotle mayonnaise, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1-2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Taste and adjust heat level to your liking.
Vegetarian Panini with Roasted Vegetables and Goat Cheese
This panini recipe combines the sweetness of roasted vegetables with the creaminess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy bread. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 small eggplant, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Slice baguette into 1-inch thick slices.
4. Spread garlic on each bread slice, then top with roasted vegetables and crumbled goat cheese.
5. Assemble panini by placing two bread slices together.
6. Cook in a panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Reuben Panini with Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
This classic sandwich gets a gourmet twist when served in a crispy panini. Thinly sliced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese are the perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 1/2 pound thinly sliced corned beef
– 1/4 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 two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the panini press.
4. Top with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
5. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Panini with Coleslaw
Elevate your lunch game with this mouthwatering combination of tender pulled pork, crispy baguette, and refreshing coleslaw. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce brings everything together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork
– 4 baguette slices
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrot
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce on each baguette slice.
3. Divide the pulled pork among the bread slices.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few lettuce leaves and a dollop of coleslaw on top of the pork.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, until crispy and toasted.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including assembly)
Mediterranean Panini with Hummus and Roasted Red Peppers
Mediterranean Panini with Hummus and Roasted Red Peppers: A flavorful and satisfying sandwich that combines the creamy richness of hummus with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, all wrapped up in a crispy panini.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably a crusty baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/2 cup of hummus
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, or crumbled pita chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, spread a layer of hummus on each bread slice.
3. Top the hummus with roasted red peppers, sliced into thin strips.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the panini by placing two slices of bread together, with the hummus and peppers in between.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Panini
Kick off your day with a flavorful and satisfying breakfast panini featuring crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (Italian or baguette work well)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt. Scramble the eggs until they’re cooked through.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of bacon, some scrambled eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
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: 4-5 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Panini with Caramelized Onions
This panini takes the classic Philly cheesesteak to new heights by adding sweet and savory caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe combines tender beef, melted cheese, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 slices of Italian bread (such as Ciabatta)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a large skillet, cook the onions over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading Worcestershire sauce on each slice of bread, then topping with sliced beef, caramelized onions, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Cook the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including cooking time for steak)
Spicy Tuna Melt Panini with Jalapeños
Elevate your lunch game with this bold and delicious panini that combines the freshness of tuna with the spicy kick of jalapeños. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a flavorful twist on classic tuna salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice, buttered side down, in the panini press or grill.
5. Spoon the tuna mixture on top of the bread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Top with the second bread slice, buttered side up.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the tuna is heated through.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Ham and Swiss Panini with Dijon Mustard
Ham and Swiss Panini with Dijon Mustard: A classic combination of flavors and textures in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of ham (such as prosciutto or Black Forest)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese (such as Gruyère or Emmental)
– 1 baguette, cut into 4 equal pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
3. Spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two baguette slices.
4. Top with ham, Swiss cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the other baguette slice, butter-side up, on top of each sandwich.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Portobello Mushroom Panini with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your panini game with this savory and indulgent combination of roasted Portobello mushrooms, creamy garlic aioli, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Portobello mushrooms
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– Garlic Aioli (recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Aioli:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the mushrooms by drizzling with olive oil and sprinkling with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Spread butter on each bread slice, then top with roasted mushroom slices.
4. Spread a layer of Garlic Aioli on each sandwich.
5. Cook in a panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, until bread is toasted and mushrooms are heated through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Panini with Feta and Kalamata Olives
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this simple yet delicious panini recipe, featuring creamy feta cheese, savory kalamata olives, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of good-quality bread (such as Ciabatta or Baguette)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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, butter-side down, in the press or on the grill.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, sliced Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Place another slice of bread, butter-side up, on top to create a sandwich.
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
Buffalo Chicken Panini with Blue Cheese Dressing
Elevate your lunch game with this spicy and savory sandwich, featuring crispy chicken tossed in buffalo sauce and melted cheddar cheese inside a toasted baguette.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 slices baguette
• 2 tablespoons blue cheese dressing
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, buffalo sauce, and butter. Toss until coated.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading blue cheese dressing on each baguette slice, followed by a layer of chicken, cheddar cheese, and lettuce/tomato (if using).
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple and Brie Panini with Honey Drizzle
Apple and Brie Panini with Honey Drizzle Recipe
Elevate your lunch game with this sweet and savory panini featuring caramelized apples, creamy brie cheese, and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/2 cup caramelized apples (see note)
– 1/2 cup crumbled brie cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp 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 a slice of bread, butter-side down, in the panini press or grill.
4. Top with caramelized apples, brie cheese, and another bread slice (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Note: To caramelize apples, cook sliced apples with butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a pan over medium heat until tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Cuban Panini with Ham, Pork, and Pickles
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba in this mouthwatering panini. Thinly sliced ham and pork, tangy pickles, and melted Swiss cheese come together to create a satisfying sandwich that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or similar)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 4 ounces thinly sliced ham
– 4 ounces thinly sliced pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup of pickles, finely chopped
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– Lettuce leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of ham, a slice of pork, and a few pieces of pickles on each slice of bread.
4. Top with a slice of Swiss cheese.
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, garnished with lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Panini
This Italian-inspired sandwich is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: mozzarella cheese for added creaminess
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken breast.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices.
6. Assemble the panini by spreading a layer of sun-dried tomatoes on each bread slice, followed by a few slices of grilled chicken.
7. Optional: Add mozzarella cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Veggie Panini with Zucchini and Eggplant
This recipe brings together the flavors of grilled zucchini, eggplant, and melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled between a crispy baguette. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of baguette
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush zucchini and eggplant slices with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
4. Butter baguette slices on both sides.
5. Assemble panini by placing grilled vegetables and mozzarella cheese between bread slices.
6. Place panini under broiler for 1-2 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate and Banana Dessert Panini
A twist on the classic sandwich, this dessert panini combines the richness of chocolate with the natural sweetness of banana.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of brioche or challah bread
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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 press or on the grill.
4. Top with sliced bananas and dark chocolate chips.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the chocolate is melted.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your lunch game with these 20 delicious panini recipes! From classic Italian combinations like prosciutto and mozzarella, to international twists like Cuban ham and pork, there’s something for every taste. Savor the flavors of grilled chicken and pesto, or indulge in sweet treats like apple and brie. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, spicy, or sweet, these panini recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative, and start building your ultimate panini collection!