Basic Grilled Panini

4.8
(4)

Panini sandwiches get their distinct look from the grill marks. I like to serve this grilled sandwich with soup or even salad. You can use this recipe to make multiple sandwiches. Just assemble them ahead of time, grill, and place in a warm oven until serving.

looking down at a basic grilled panini cut in half with a side of chips
2
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
6 mins
Total Time:
16 mins
Servings:
1
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 1 servings

  • 1 tablespoon extra-light olive oil, or as needed

  • 2 slices Italian bread

  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

  • 3 slices deli ham, or more to taste

  • 2 slices Cheddar cheese

  • 1 slice firm-ripe tomato

  • 1 thin slice onion

  • cooking spray

Directions

  1. Drizzle olive oil on 1 side of each bread slice. Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on other side of each slice.

    two slices of bread each spread with mayo.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  2. Arrange layers of ham, Cheddar cheese, tomato, and onion on top. Top with other bread slice, mayonnaise-side down.

    an top down view of a sandwich, pre-toasting, drizzled with olive oil.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  3. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat; spray lightly with cooking spray. Place sandwich on grill pan; weigh it down with a heavy pan. Cook until cheese is melted and grill marks appear, 3 to 5 minutes per side.

    grilled panini on a hot grill pan.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Cook’s Note

This basic recipe is easily changed up with prosciutto, salami, or even turkey. This is also great as a veggie sandwich.

You can use French bread for Italian, extra-virgin olive oil for extra-light, and spreadable cheese for mayonnaise.

I recommend a George Forman grill because it eliminates the need for flipping. If you don't have a grill pan, use a regular cast iron or nonstick skillet. You can also use a panini press if you have one.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

802 Calories
63g Fat
27g Carbs
32g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 1
Calories 802
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 63g 81%
Saturated Fat 20g 100%
Cholesterol 118mg 39%
Sodium 1840mg 80%
Total Carbohydrate 27g 10%
Dietary Fiber 3g 9%
Total Sugars 2g
Protein 32g 64%
Vitamin C 8mg 8%
Calcium 467mg 36%
Iron 3mg 14%
Potassium 421mg 9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.