Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich Recipe

Few things are as satisfying as a warm, crispy Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich! With gooey melted cheese nestled between two golden, crunchy slices of bread, this recipe is comfort food at its best. Whether you’re making lunch for the kids or craving a quick and easy snack, this panini will be your go-to favorite in just minutes.

Hot melted yellow cheese oozing out of crispy warm sandwich with beautiful grill marks!  Imagine biting into this grilled cheese panini sandwich – crunch!  Taste the warm cheese! How fast do you think this crispy yum would disappear?

Why You’ll Love Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich

• Super quick and easy to make: This recipe takes less than five minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days or when you need a fast snack. No fancy prep required—just assemble, grill, and enjoy!
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients: With just bread and cheese, this sandwich is as budget-friendly as it gets. Most of us already have these staples at home, so no extra grocery trip is necessary.
• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved: Grilled cheese is a classic that kids adore. The simplicity of the flavors means it’s a hit with even the pickiest eaters, but it’s easy to dress up for grown-up tastes too.
• Customizable to your taste: Whether you prefer it plain, tangy with mustard, or sweet with a hint of jam, this sandwich adapts to your flavor cravings. You can also switch up the cheese or bread for endless variations.
• Perfectly crispy and melty: The panini press gives it a signature crunch with grill marks, while the cheese inside stays perfectly melted. It’s a balance of textures that makes every bite irresistible.

Here are the reasons why a grilled cheese panini sandwich is a great sandwich recipe:

1) It requires just 2 ingredients – bread and cheese!  These ingredients are so common and readily available – most of us have bread and cheese on hand at all times, so we can make a grilled cheese panini for lunch!

2) It’s very kid-friendly – even the pickiest eaters love grilled cheese sandwiches!

3) It takes less than 5 minutes to make – just put a slice of cheese between 2 bread slices, pop it in a panini press and in 2 minutes your grilled cheese panini is ready!

Ingredients For Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich:

• 2 slices of bread – The base of the sandwich use your favorite type, like white, wheat, or sourdough
• 1 slice of cheese – The star of the sandwich choose a slice that melts well, like cheddar, mozzarella, or American.
• Mustard OR jam (optional) – Adds a tangy or sweet flavor to customize the sandwich to your taste.

For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich

• Panini Press – Essential for grilling the sandwich to crispy perfection and creating those beautiful grill marks.
• Knife – Handy if you want to cut the crust off the bread or slice the sandwich in half.
• Measuring Spoons (optional) – Useful if you’re adding spreads like mustard or jam for precise application.

Directions How To Make Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich:

Preheat the panini press.

You can cut off the bread crust or leave it – whichever way you like it better!

Spread the bread slices with mustard OR jam (this step is optional).  Your grilled cheese can be plain (don’t spread the bread with anything), tangy (spread with mustard) or with a hint of sweetness (thinly spread with jam).  Which taste you make it is up to you :)

Put a slice of cheese on top of a bread slice, then cover with the second bread slice.  Put the sandwich in a panini press and grill for 1 minute or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich has the brown grill marks.

Enjoy your grilled cheese panini!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Grilled Cheese Panini Sandwich with a bowl of warm Creamy Tomato Soup for a classic and comforting pairing.
• Pair it with a Kale and Crisp Apple Salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
• Add a side of Quick Air Fryer Potato Chips or Homemade French Fries for a fun and indulgent snack.
• Slice the sandwich into smaller pieces to serve as appetizers or finger food at parties.
• Enjoy it with a Cold Brew Iced Green Tea or Best Homemade Lemonade with Freshly Squeezed Lemons for a refreshing drink to complement the crispy, cheesy sandwich.

Tips For Success

• Choose the right bread: Bread with a firmer texture, like sourdough or rustic white bread, works best for grilling. Avoid overly soft or thin bread, as it may not hold up well in the panini press.
• Pick the right cheese: Select a cheese that melts smoothly, like cheddar, mozzarella, or American. Avoid crumbly cheeses like feta or hard cheeses like Parmesan unless you pair them with a melting cheese.
• Spread evenly: If you’re adding mustard or jam, make sure to spread it thinly and evenly on the bread to prevent overpowering the flavor of the cheese.
• Don’t overfill: Stick to a single layer of cheese and optional spread to keep the sandwich easy to handle and evenly cooked. Overfilling can cause the cheese to leak out during grilling.
• Monitor cooking time: Every panini press is different, so check your sandwich after one minute of grilling. You’re looking for melted cheese and golden-brown grill marks on the bread.
• Experiment with flavors: This sandwich is incredibly versatile! Try using flavored cheeses, adding thinly sliced vegetables, or experimenting with spreads like pesto or honey.
• Clean your panini press: To keep your panini press in good condition, wipe it clean while it’s still slightly warm. This prevents any stuck-on cheese or crumbs from hardening.

Variations And Substitutions

• Different types of bread: Swap out regular bread for sourdough, rye, whole grain, or even bagels to give your sandwich a unique twist. For a low-carb option, you can use keto bread or wraps.
• Cheese options: While cheddar, mozzarella, and American are classics, you can experiment with smoked gouda, brie, or pepper jack for a more adventurous flavor. For dairy-free versions, opt for plant-based cheeses that melt well.
• Add some protein: Enhance your sandwich by adding slices of turkey, ham, or crispy bacon. For vegetarians, try layering in grilled tofu or plant-based deli slices.
• Veggie upgrades: Add thinly sliced tomatoes, spinach, or caramelized onions for extra texture and nutrition. For a gourmet touch, try roasted bell peppers or a few slices of avocado.
• Flavorful spreads: Instead of mustard or jam, try pesto, garlic butter, or a spicy chipotle mayo for added flavor. Sweet options like apple butter or honey also pair wonderfully with sharp cheeses.
• Sweet and savory combo: Take inspiration from apple cranberry grilled cheese and add fruit slices like apples, pears, or even cranberries to balance the savory cheese.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread or tortillas to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Mini versions: Make mini grilled cheese bites using slider buns or small pieces of bread for appetizers or kids’ snacks.
• International flavors: For an Italian spin, use mozzarella and add marinara sauce for dipping. Or, make it French-inspired with brie and a dollop of fig jam.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, allow the sandwich to cool completely before storing it. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating in the panini press: To bring back the crispiness, reheat the sandwich in the panini press for 1-2 minutes until warm and toasted.
• Reheating in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
• Microwave method: If you’re short on time, reheat the sandwich in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Note that this method might make the bread soft rather than crispy.
• Freezing: Grilled cheese sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze them before grilling. Assemble the sandwich and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sandwich without a panini press?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a panini press, you can use a regular skillet. Place the sandwich in the skillet over medium heat, pressing it down with a spatula or a heavy pan to create the grill effect. Flip it after a minute or two, then cook until the other side is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

What’s the best cheese to use for grilled cheese panini?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and American cheese are all excellent choices because they melt well. You can also experiment with gouda, brie, or havarti for a gourmet twist. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheeses that are labeled as meltable.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute regular bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. The rest of the ingredients and method remain the same.

How can I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

To avoid leaks, make sure the cheese is fully enclosed within the bread. Avoid overstuffing the sandwich, and trim the cheese slice if necessary to fit neatly inside.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this sandwich?

Tomato soup is a classic pairing for grilled cheese. You can also serve it with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even a handful of chips for a quick and satisfying meal.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use vegan cheese and plant-based bread to make a delicious vegan version of this sandwich. You can also add thinly sliced veggies for more flavor and texture.

Why do I need to let the sandwich cool slightly before eating?

Letting the sandwich cool for a minute or two helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to handle and bite into without burning your mouth.

Other Easy Cheese Recipes

Quick Refried Bean and Cheese Quesadillas Recipe: A simple and flavorful meal made with creamy refried beans and melted cheese, ready in minutes.

Tomato and Burrata Salad Appetizer: A fresh and elegant appetizer featuring juicy tomatoes and creamy burrata, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

5-Minute Microwave Refried Bean and Cheese Tacos: A speedy and delicious taco recipe combining refried beans and gooey melted cheese, all made in the microwave.

Air Fryer Cheese Ravioli with Marinara Sauce: Crispy, golden cheese ravioli cooked in the air fryer and served with marinara sauce for dipping.

Air Fryer Frozen Cheese Curds Recipe: Perfectly crispy and gooey cheese curds made effortlessly in the air fryer for a quick and tasty snack.

Easy Baked Cheese Ravioli with Marinara: A comforting baked dish featuring tender cheese ravioli smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese.

Salmon Baked with Cheese and Mayonnaise: A rich and flavorful salmon recipe topped with a creamy cheese and mayo mixture, baked to perfection.

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