Pizza Panini Recipe

The Pizza Panini combines the gooey, savory comfort of pizza with the crispy, pressed texture of a panini for a sandwich that’s both hearty and indulgent. With melted mozzarella, rich pizza sauce, and zesty pepperoni tucked between crusty bread and grilled to perfection, this quick and satisfying recipe brings the flavors of a pizzeria right to your kitchen—no oven required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pizza panini is everything you love about pizza—cheese, sauce, and toppings—wrapped into a golden, toasted sandwich. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for a quick lunch, weeknight dinner, or even a party snack. The crispy exterior gives way to a warm, melty interior that’s endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. Whether made on a panini press or grill pan, the result is always delicious and comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 thick slices of hearty bread, or 1 (12–14 oz) loaf of ciabatta
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara)
• 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
• 3–4 oz pepperoni slices
• Olive oil spray

Directions

1. Preheat the Grill:
   Warm up your panini press, George Foreman grill, or grill pan over medium heat.

2. Prepare the Bread:
   Slice the bread into thick slices, or cut the ciabatta loaf in half and optionally scoop out some of the inside to make room for fillings.

3. Assemble the Sandwich:
   Spread pizza sauce evenly on the cut sides of the bread. Layer the bottom half with mozzarella slices and pepperoni, then top with the remaining bread slice.

4. Oil the Bread:
   Lightly spray the outer sides of the bread with olive oil spray to help create a golden, crispy crust.

5. Grill the Panini:
   Place the sandwich in the panini press or on the grill. If using a grill pan, press down with a heavy skillet. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

6. Cool and Serve:
   Let the panini rest for 1–2 minutes after grilling to allow the cheese to set slightly. Slice and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 large paninis or 4 halves.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the pepperoni and add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.

• Meat Lovers: Add sliced ham, salami, or cooked sausage for a more protein-packed panini.

• Cheese Swap: Use provolone, cheddar, or fontina in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the sauce.

• Herb Boost: Sprinkle fresh basil or oregano inside before pressing for added aroma and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
To Reheat: Reheat in a skillet or panini press until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy.
Freezing Not Recommended: The bread and cheese can lose their texture when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, sourdough, baguette, or any hearty loaf that holds up to pressing and grilling works well.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but shredded low-moisture mozzarella or provolone are also excellent choices.

Can I make this without a panini press?

Absolutely. Use a grill pan and press the sandwich with a heavy skillet on top.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, grilled or sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers make great additions.

Is this kid-friendly?

Definitely. It’s a fun and tasty way to serve pizza flavors in sandwich form.

Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?

Yes, jarred pizza or marinara sauce is perfect and saves time.

How do I keep the bread crispy?

Lightly oil the outside and avoid overfilling the sandwich, which can make it soggy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can assemble it ahead and grill just before serving.

What goes well with this?

Serve with a side salad, soup, or chips for a complete meal.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Press the edges together firmly and avoid overloading the sandwich to keep the filling intact.

Conclusion

This Pizza Panini is a quick and flavorful twist on two classics, combining the irresistible elements of pizza with the convenience of a toasted sandwich. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack, it’s easily customizable to suit any taste. With crispy bread, melty cheese, and bold pizza flavors, this panini is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Pizza Panini Recipe

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 2–4 servings
• Category: Sandwich, Panini
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: American, Italian Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Pizza Panini Recipe brings together the best of both worlds—crispy, golden bread and all your favorite pizza flavors inside! Made with melty mozzarella, pepperoni, and rich pizza sauce, it’s a quick and delicious lunch or dinner option that tastes like pizza, but eats like a sandwich.

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Ingredients

• 4 thick slices of hearty bread (or 1 ciabatta loaf, 12-14 oz)

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara)

• 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

• 3-4 oz pepperoni slices

• Olive oil spray

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Instructions

• Preheat Grill: Heat a panini press, George Foreman grill, or grill pan over medium heat.

• Assemble Panini:

  • Slice bread thickly (or slice and hollow out the ciabatta slightly).

  • Spread pizza sauce evenly on the inside of each slice.

  • Layer bottom half with mozzarella and pepperoni, then top with the other bread slice.

• Oil & Grill:

  • Lightly spray the outside of the bread with olive oil.

  • Place sandwich in panini press or grill pan. If using a grill pan, weigh down with a heavy skillet.

  • Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and cheese is melted.

• Serve: Let cool for 1–2 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

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Notes

• Add extras like olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a veggie-loaded version.

• Use a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a zesty twist.

• Great for using up leftover pizza toppings.