Fish Panini Sandwich Recipe

This crispy and flavorful fish panini sandwich is the perfect way to transform leftover fish into a delicious and satisfying lunch. Warm fish, melted cheese, and perfectly toasted bread come together for a unique take on the classic panini. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a creative use for leftovers, this fish panini sandwich is sure to become a new favorite!

Do you have leftover fish from last night’s dinner?  Is there not enough fish for another dinner?  The small fish portion will be just enough for a delicious lunch – a warm grilled crispy fish panini sandwich!

Why You’ll Love This Fish Panini Sandwich

• Unique Flavor: This sandwich offers a delicious twist with warm, flaky fish and melted cheese, making it different from typical deli options like turkey or ham.
• Quick and Easy: You can prepare this sandwich in just a few minutes, especially if you already have leftover fish, making it a perfect option for busy days.
• Great Use of Leftovers: If you have a small portion of cooked fish, this recipe ensures nothing goes to waste, turning it into a tasty, hot meal.
• Customizable: This fish panini is flexible—you can add veggies like tomatoes or spinach, or even experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.
• Crispy and Satisfying: The toasted bread, combined with the melted cheese and warm fish, creates a texture contrast that makes every bite extra satisfying.

Warm fish and melted cheese between 2 hot grilled slices of bread – that’s LUNCH!  That’s a SANDWICH! Not the usual turkey, roast beef, ham and other boring deli sandwiches – a FISH sandwich… that’s a unique homemade lunch…  Yum!

Super-Easy Fish Panini Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of bread: Use any kind you like, such as white, whole wheat, or sourdough, for the sandwich base.
• A piece of cooked fish: Any leftover cooked fish will work for this recipe—tilapia, cod, salmon, or grouper are great options.
• 1 slice of cheese: Choose a slice of cheese that melts well, like cheddar, Swiss, or provolone, for that gooey texture.
• Mayo: Adds a creamy, tangy element to the sandwich, balancing the flavors of the fish and cheese.
• Mustard: A small amount of mustard gives a zesty kick that complements the richness of the fish and cheese.

See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Fish Panini Sandwich

• Panini Press: For grilling the sandwich to crispy perfection with those signature grill marks.
• Microwave: To quickly warm up the fish if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Spatula: Helps in safely transferring the sandwich in and out of the panini press.
• Measuring Spoons: For spreading the right amount of mayo and mustard onto the bread.

Directions:

Preheat the panini press.

Microwave the fish for 30 seconds to make it warm.

Spread a slice of bread with mustard.  Put the cheese on that slice of bread.  Put the fish on top of cheese.

Spread another slice of bread with mayo.  Put that bread slice on top of the fish.

Put assembled sandwich in the panini press and cook for 2 minutes, or until cheese is melted and grill marks are brown.  Enjoy your hot and grilled fish panini sandwich!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your fish panini sandwich with a side of crispy homemade fries or sweet potato fries for a classic combo.
• Pair it with a light salad, such as coleslaw or mixed greens, for a fresh contrast to the warm, melty sandwich.
• Add an onion pickle on the side for a crunchy, tangy bite that complements the flavors of the fish and cheese.
• Enjoy it with a bowl of soup, like tomato soup or creamy sweet potato soup, to make it a heartier meal.

Tips For Success

• Choose the Right Fish: Any leftover fish works well for this recipe, but flaky white fish like tilapia or cod will give you the best texture in your sandwich. Make sure the fish isn’t too oily, as that could make the sandwich soggy.
• Don’t Skip Warming the Fish: Warming the fish before assembling the sandwich helps ensure everything is hot and melts the cheese evenly. Cold fish might cool the sandwich down too much and prevent that delicious gooey texture.
• Watch the Grill Time: Panini presses can vary in heat, so keep an eye on the sandwich. It usually takes about 2 minutes, but the key is to look for golden brown bread and melted cheese. If needed, you can press it for a few extra seconds to achieve the perfect crunch.
• Experiment with Bread: While any bread works, using sturdier slices like sourdough or ciabatta will hold up better to the fillings. Thinner slices of bread might get too soft with the heat.
• Customize Your Flavor: Add a little spice with some sriracha mayo or extra herbs like dill. You can also add veggies like tomatoes, spinach, or even avocado to make the sandwich more filling and colorful.

Variations And Substitutions

• Different Types of Fish: While the recipe calls for any leftover fish, you can easily swap out the type of fish depending on what you have. Salmon gives a richer, heartier flavor, while mild fish like flounder or sole offers a lighter bite. You can even try shrimp or crab for a seafood twist.
• Cheese Substitutes: If you’re looking for something other than traditional cheese, try using a slice of smoked gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice. For a non-dairy option, there are plant-based cheeses available that melt well and pair nicely with fish.
• Bread Options: The type of bread you use can completely change the texture of your sandwich. Swap regular sandwich bread for ciabatta, focaccia, or even a whole wheat pita pocket for a different spin. Gluten-free bread works well too, and toasting it in the panini press helps it hold up better.
• Add Veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding sliced tomatoes, spinach, or grilled onions. These ingredients pair well with fish and cheese, giving the sandwich a fresh, vibrant contrast. Avocado also makes for a creamy addition that complements the fish perfectly.
• Spreads and Sauces: If you’re not a fan of mayo or mustard, try other spreads like tartar sauce, chipotle mayo, or even pesto. These can give the sandwich a completely different flavor profile and make it even more exciting.
• Low-Carb Option: For those looking to lower the carbs, you can swap the bread for large lettuce leaves to make a fish panini wrap. You’ll still get all the flavors of the sandwich but in a lighter, carb-free version.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have any leftover fish panini, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to eat it fresh, but it will still be good after being stored for a short period.
• Reheating: To reheat the sandwich, place it back in the panini press for about 2-3 minutes until the bread is crisp and the fillings are warmed through. If you don’t have a panini press handy, you can also reheat it in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5-6 minutes or until the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving the sandwich as it might make the bread too soft and lose its crispiness.
• Freezing: This sandwich isn’t ideal for freezing due to the texture of the fish and the bread after thawing, but you can freeze the fish separately if desired. Reheat and assemble fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fish instead of leftovers?

Absolutely! If you don’t have leftover fish, you can quickly cook a small piece of fish to use in the panini. Simply season and pan-fry or bake it before assembling the sandwich.

What’s the best type of cheese for this sandwich?

Cheeses that melt well, such as cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella, work best for this sandwich. You can experiment with different types depending on your preference, but softer, melting cheeses complement the fish and add that satisfying gooey texture.

Can I make this sandwich without a panini press?

Yes, you can still make this sandwich without a panini press. Simply use a regular skillet and press the sandwich down with a spatula or a heavy object like another pan to get the same crispy effect. Flip it halfway through to cook both sides evenly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just swap out regular bread for a gluten-free variety, and make sure the mustard and mayo you’re using are also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients, including fish and cheese, are naturally gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with this fish panini?

This sandwich pairs well with light and fresh sides such as a mixed greens salad, coleslaw, or a side of sweet potato fries. You could also serve it alongside a bowl of soup, like tomato or potato soup, for a heartier meal.

Other Easy Panini Recipes

Turkey and Cheese Quesadilla Panini Recipe: This delicious fusion of a quesadilla and panini features melted cheese and turkey, grilled to perfection in a crispy tortilla wrap.

Eggplant Grilled Panini Recipe: A flavorful vegetarian panini filled with tender grilled eggplant and fresh veggies, all tucked between golden, crispy bread.

Easy Cheese Panini with Challah Bread: This indulgent cheese panini, made with rich challah bread, is the ultimate comfort food with its gooey center and buttery crust.

Best Grilled Cheese Panini Recipe: A simple yet classic grilled cheese panini that’s packed with melted goodness and crisp, buttery bread.

Classic Turkey and Cheese Panini Recipe: This classic panini combines savory turkey and gooey cheese, grilled until golden brown for a perfect lunch or snack.

 

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