A Cuisinart panini press is not just for making sandwiches—it’s a versatile kitchen appliance that can elevate your meals with its ability to grill, toast, and press ingredients into delicious creations.
Whether you’re craving a classic panini or exploring new flavor combinations, the Cuisinart panini press offers endless possibilities.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and culinary creativity of the Cuisinart panini press.
15+ Delectable Cuisinart Panini Press Recipes to Try Today
With these 50 Cuisinart panini press recipes, you can transform simple ingredients into gourmet sandwiches, appetizers, and even desserts.
Whether you prefer savory combinations like BBQ chicken or classic flavors like Caprese, the Cuisinart panini press allows you to experiment with different ingredients and create meals that are both delicious and satisfying.
Caprese Panini
The Caprese Panini is a classic Italian sandwich featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Grilled to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press, this sandwich offers a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush the outside of each ciabatta roll with olive oil.
- Layer the mozzarella cheese, tomato slices, and basil leaves on the bottom half of each roll.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Caprese Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a taste of Italy with its fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all complemented by the sweet tanginess of balsamic glaze. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, providing a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a warm and comforting meal that is sure to please.
Turkey Pesto Panini
Turkey Pesto Panini combines slices of roasted turkey, creamy pesto spread, roasted red peppers, and provolone cheese for a hearty and flavorful sandwich. Grilled in the Cuisinart panini press, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying lunch or a quick and easy dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 8 slices roasted turkey breast
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spread pesto evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer turkey slices, roasted red peppers, and provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Turkey Pesto Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a savory combination of tender turkey, creamy pesto, tangy roasted red peppers, and melted provolone cheese, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, providing a balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy it fresh from the press for a warm and comforting lunch or dinner option.
BBQ Chicken Panini
BBQ Chicken Panini features grilled chicken breast, barbecue sauce, caramelized onions, and cheddar cheese, creating a smoky and savory sandwich. Cooked to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press, this recipe offers a delicious twist on classic barbecue flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush the outside of each ciabatta roll with olive oil.
- Spread barbecue sauce evenly on the inside of each roll.
- Layer grilled chicken slices, caramelized onions, and shredded cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The BBQ Chicken Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a hearty and flavorful combination of grilled chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and melted cheddar cheese, all encased in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for barbecue lovers and provides a satisfying meal option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a warm and comforting dish that will leave you wanting more.
Mediterranean Veggie Panini
Mediterranean Veggie Panini features a colorful array of roasted vegetables, creamy hummus, tangy feta cheese, and fresh spinach, all grilled to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press. This vegetarian sandwich is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect option for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup roasted vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spread hummus evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer roasted vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh spinach leaves on the bottom half of each roll.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Mediterranean Veggie Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a delightful combination of roasted vegetables, creamy hummus, tangy feta cheese, and fresh spinach, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is not only flavorful but also nutritious, providing a satisfying meal option for vegetarians and veggie lovers alike. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a wholesome and delicious lunch or dinner.
Cuban Panini
Cuban Panini is a hearty sandwich featuring roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press. This classic Cuban-inspired sandwich offers a delicious blend of savory, tangy, and smoky flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 8 slices roasted pork loin or ham
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spread mustard evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer roasted pork or ham slices, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Cuban Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a robust combination of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and mustard, all pressed between crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for those who enjoy bold and savory flavors, providing a satisfying meal option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a taste of Cuba in the comfort of your own home.
Italian Sausage and Peppers Panini
Italian Sausage and Peppers Panini features grilled Italian sausage, sautéed peppers and onions, marinara sauce, and provolone cheese, creating a flavorful and hearty sandwich. Cooked in the Cuisinart panini press, this recipe is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 4 Italian sausage links, grilled and sliced
- 1 cup sautéed bell peppers and onions
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer grilled Italian sausage slices, sautéed peppers and onions, and provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Italian Sausage and Peppers Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a satisfying combination of grilled Italian sausage, sautéed peppers and onions, marinara sauce, and melted provolone cheese, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, providing a comforting and flavorful meal option. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a taste of Italian-inspired cuisine that will satisfy your cravings.
Chicken Pesto Panini
Chicken Pesto Panini features tender grilled chicken breast, creamy pesto spread, roasted red peppers, and provolone cheese, all pressed between ciabatta bread in the Cuisinart panini press. This sandwich offers a burst of Italian flavors and is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spread pesto evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer grilled chicken slices, roasted red peppers, and provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Chicken Pesto Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press combines tender grilled chicken with creamy pesto, sweet roasted red peppers, and melted provolone cheese, all encased in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying option for lunch or dinner, providing a taste of Italy with every bite. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a delicious and quick meal.
Turkey Cranberry Panini
Turkey Cranberry Panini features slices of roasted turkey breast, tangy cranberry sauce, creamy brie cheese, and fresh spinach, pressed to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press. This sandwich offers a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it a great option for using leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 8 slices roasted turkey breast
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spread cranberry sauce evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer roasted turkey slices, brie cheese, and fresh spinach leaves on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Turkey Cranberry Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a delightful combination of roasted turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, creamy brie cheese, and fresh spinach, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for utilizing leftover holiday turkey or enjoying a gourmet twist on a classic combination. Serve it fresh off the press for a satisfying and flavorful meal option.
Veggie and Goat Cheese Panini
Veggie and Goat Cheese Panini features a medley of grilled vegetables, creamy goat cheese, and fresh basil, pressed to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press. This vegetarian sandwich is packed with flavor and offers a wholesome option for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 1 zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion slices with olive oil, then grill until tender and lightly charred.
- Spread goat cheese evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer grilled vegetables and fresh basil leaves on the bottom half of each roll.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Veggie and Goat Cheese Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a flavorful combination of grilled vegetables, creamy goat cheese, and fresh basil, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for vegetarians and veggie lovers, providing a satisfying and wholesome option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave you wanting more.
Apple, Cheddar, and Bacon Panini
Apple, Cheddar, and Bacon Panini combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in one delicious sandwich. Thinly sliced apples, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a touch of honey mustard are pressed between ciabatta bread slices in the Cuisinart panini press, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 1 apple, thinly sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 slices cooked bacon
- Honey mustard
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spread honey mustard evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer apple slices, cheddar cheese slices, and bacon on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Apple, Cheddar, and Bacon Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a delightful combination of sweet apple slices, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy honey mustard, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and savory flavors, providing a satisfying meal option for lunch or a quick dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a delicious and comforting sandwich experience.
Italian Meatball Panini
Italian Meatball Panini features homemade meatballs, marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, pressed between ciabatta bread slices in the Cuisinart panini press. This hearty sandwich brings the flavors of Italy to your table and is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 12-16 cooked Italian meatballs, halved
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Warm the marinara sauce and Italian meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer halved meatballs, shredded mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Italian Meatball Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a hearty combination of savory Italian meatballs, rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and aromatic basil, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for meatball lovers and provides a comforting and satisfying meal option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a taste of Italy that will leave you craving more.
Balsamic Chicken and Avocado Panini
Balsamic Chicken and Avocado Panini features tender grilled chicken breast, creamy avocado slices, sun-dried tomatoes, provolone cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, all pressed to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press. This sandwich offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 2 avocados, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush the outside of each ciabatta roll with olive oil.
- Layer grilled chicken slices, avocado slices, sun-dried tomatoes, and provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Balsamic Chicken and Avocado Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a flavorful combination of grilled chicken, creamy avocado, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, melted provolone cheese, and sweet balsamic glaze, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of savory and sweet flavors, providing a satisfying meal option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a delicious and gourmet sandwich experience.
Caprese Panini
Caprese Panini features fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, pressed between ciabatta bread slices in the Cuisinart panini press. This classic Italian sandwich is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush the outside of each ciabatta roll with olive oil.
- Layer fresh mozzarella slices, tomato slices, and basil leaves on the bottom half of each roll.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Caprese Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a delightful combination of creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and tangy balsamic glaze, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for a light and refreshing meal, providing a taste of Italy with every bite. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner option.
BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Panini
BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Panini features tender shredded chicken, sweet pineapple slices, barbecue sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and cilantro, pressed to perfection in the Cuisinart panini press. This sandwich offers a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup pineapple slices (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush the outside of each ciabatta roll with olive oil.
- Mix shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until well coated.
- Layer barbecue chicken, pineapple slices, shredded cheddar cheese, and cilantro leaves on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a delicious combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, tangy barbecue sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for barbecue lovers and provides a satisfying meal option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a flavorful and hearty sandwich experience.
Turkey, Brie, and Apple Panini
Turkey, Brie, and Apple Panini features roasted turkey breast, creamy brie cheese, thinly sliced apples, and honey mustard, pressed between ciabatta bread slices in the Cuisinart panini press. This sandwich offers a delightful blend of savory, creamy, and sweet flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 ciabatta rolls, sliced in half
- 8 slices roasted turkey breast
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Honey mustard
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Cuisinart panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Brush the outside of each ciabatta roll with olive oil.
- Spread honey mustard evenly on the inside of each ciabatta roll.
- Layer roasted turkey slices, brie cheese slices, and apple slices on the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with the other half of the ciabatta rolls.
- Brush the outside of each sandwich with olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the preheated panini press and close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the panini press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.
The Turkey, Brie, and Apple Panini made in the Cuisinart panini press offers a delicious combination of roasted turkey, creamy brie cheese, sweet apple slices, and tangy honey mustard, all enclosed in crispy ciabatta bread. This sandwich is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of savory and sweet flavors, providing a satisfying meal option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it fresh off the press for a gourmet and flavorful sandwich experience.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
