How to Make Paninis Without a Panini Press
Updated: Nov. 08, 2022
When you're craving a panini, turn to your handy cast-iron skillet.
We’ve all been there: You’re craving an ooey-gooey panini, but there’s a problem. You don’t have a panini press! Luckily, you don’t have to crowd your countertop with another appliance for a cafe-worthy panini. Our sister site, Taste of Home’s, Test Kitchen has a secret for a press-free panini.
Step 1: Pull out your cast-iron skillets
The secret for a crispy panini is to use two hot cast iron skillets to toast the sandwich. To start, preheat two cast-iron skillets over medium-high heat. If you can, use one skillet that is slightly smaller than the other so they can be stacked. Need a new cast-iron skillet?
Step 2: Assemble the panini
While your skillets are heating up, put your panini together. You can use whatever meat, cheese, and veggies you’d like, but we’d suggest using a heartier bread, like ciabatta, French bread or thick-sliced sourdough. If you need some inspiration, these are some of our favorite panini recipes.
Step 3: Cook the panini
Add some oil to one of the skillets (the larger of the two, if possible) and use a paper towel to oil the bottom of the other cast-iron skillet. It will be very hot, so be careful! Put your sandwich in the skillet and then place the second skillet on top of the sandwich, pushing it down a bit.
Then, place a heat-safe weight, like a filled tea kettle or saucepan, on top of the second skillet to apply pressure. Let the sandwich cook for about 4 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and toasty.
Step 4: Eat!
When the panini is done, carefully remove the weight and cast iron skillet and remove the sandwich from heat. Transfer it to a plate, slice in half and enjoy your melty panini.
