Panini Presses

Apollo Freeman
16 min readApr 13, 2024

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Welcome to our exciting roundup of the top Panini Presses out there!

Get ready to enjoy the best of grilled sandwiches and more with our selection of top-notch Panini Presses, meticulously handpicked to ensure your culinary experience is nothing short of exceptional.

The Top 10 Best Panini Presses

  1. Cuisinart 3-in-1 Grill and Panini Press Griddler — Refurbished & Space-Saving — Experience perfect grilling, panini making, and versatile cooking with the Cuisinart GR-11FR Griddler — a Certified Refurbished model that delivers juicy burgers, succulent steaks, and crispy paninis in one compact package!
  2. Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Indoor Griddle & Panini Press — Transform your indoor cooking with the versatile Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Grill/Griddle, offering multiple cooking options, easy cleaning, and a spacious cooking surface for up to 12 servings.
  3. All-Clad AutoSense Stainless Steel Grill: Panini Press XL with Automatic Cooking — Boost your indoor culinary experience with the All-Clad AutoSense Stainless Steel Indoor Grill — delivering precision, versatility, and easy cleanup for every meal, allowing you to impress your guests and enjoy smokeless, healthy cooking.
  4. Stainless Steel Salton Panini Grill — Delicious Sandwiches in Minutes — Savor perfect paninis with the powerful and versatile Salton Stainless Steel Panini Grill, perfect for any sandwich size and quick grilling in minutes!
  5. Hamilton Beach Gourmet Sandwich Maker for Perfect Paninis — Prepare mouthwatering paninis with the Hamilton Beach Panini Press Gourmet Sandwich Maker, featuring a café-style floating lid, non-stick grids, and stylish chrome finish.
  6. Superior 1200-Watt Black Non-Stick Panini Press with Temperature Control — Transform any sandwich into a delicious meal with the Holstein Housewares 2-Slice Panini Press + 180° Grill, featuring floating hinges, temperature control, and non-stick coating for effortless cooking and easy cleanup.
  7. Hello Kitty Grilled Cheese Sandwich Maker — Unique Kitchen Gift — Satisfy your sweet tooth and pop culture cravings with this Hello Kitty Grilled Cheese Sandwich Maker, featuring a compact design and versatile cooking options!
  8. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Dual-Sandwich Panini Maker — Experience the ultimate versatility with Cuisinart’s Dual-Sandwich Maker: perfect for grilling paninis, omelets, and French toast, all while boasting features like lock-down lid, ready-to-cook indicator, and nonstick baking plates for easy clean-up.
  9. GreenLife Electric Sandwich Maker — Safe & Easy, Clean-Up Nonstick Turquoise — Get ready to become a sandwich-making pro with the eco-friendly and effortless GreenLife Electric Sandwich Maker, featuring fast heat-up and easy-to-clean ceramic nonstick coatings.
  10. Hamilton Beach Stainless Steel Panini Press and Indoor Grill — Silver — Enjoy restaurant-quality panini and grilled sandwiches at home with the easy-to-clean, versatile Hamilton Beach Panini Press and Indoor Grill.

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Reviews

Cuisinart 3-in-1 Grill and Panini Press Griddler — Refurbished & Space-Saving

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Cuisinart’s 3-in-1 Grill and Panini Press Griddler brings a taste of fine dining to your kitchen, with its professional-grade features at an affordable price. Despite being refurbished, it’s a reliable and versatile tool perfect for grilling burgers, steaks, or even making panini sandwiches. The non-stick grill plates ensure even cooking, with the integrated drip tray helping to keep clean up a breeze.

This nifty appliance is space-saving, easily fitting in smaller kitchens, and has convenient indicator lights for power and readiness. Its floating hinge works brilliantly with various sandwich thicknesses, making it a top choice for perfect grilled thin or thick panini.

Despite its excellent features, some users have reported issues with defected parts, but Cuisinart’s customer service makes up for it by providing a hassle-free RMA and refund process. In summary, the Cuisinart Griddler provides ample cooking capacity with minimal footprint, and is an excellent choice for anyone seeking versatility and convenience in their kitchen.

Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Indoor Griddle & Panini Press

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Introducing the Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Indoor Grill, a versatile and convenient cooking appliance that’s perfect for creating delicious meals without breaking the bank! With its large 100 square inch cooking surface, which can double to 200 when opened flat, this grill can easily cater to a group of 6 to 12 people. Whether you’re grilling burgers for the whole family or pressing paninis to perfection, the Proctor Silex has got you covered.

Featuring adjustable temperature control with illuminated indicator lights, you have the freedom to cook at low or high heat settings, ensuring your food is cooked to your desired level of crispiness. The nonstick plates and removable drip tray make cleaning a breeze, and they are conveniently dishwasher-safe for added convenience. Additionally, the stainless steel exterior adds a touch of durability and style to your kitchen.

While this grill offers a wealth of cooking options, some users have reported minor issues with the consistency of cooking results. Nonetheless, the Proctor Silex 5-in-1 Indoor Grill remains a reliable and versatile addition to any kitchen, ensuring countless delicious meals for your loved ones.

All-Clad AutoSense Stainless Steel Grill: Panini Press XL with Automatic Cooking

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As someone who has been using the All-Clad AutoSense Stainless Steel Indoor Grill for a while now, I must say, it’s been quite the game-changer for my daily cooking routine. The first thing that stands out to me is its precision when it comes to cooking time — it automatically measures the meat thickness and adjusts accordingly, eliminating the need for a thermometer probe. It also has a double-sided grill, which means you can cook both sides of your meat at once without constant flipping, saving time and energy.

The cooking indicator feature is another remarkable aspect of this grill. It guides you through each of the 5 cooking stages, ensuring that your meat always turns out perfectly cooked — no need for constant monitoring. The versatility of this grill is impressive too. With its 9 automatic programs and manual mode with 4-temperature settings, you can grill an array of ingredients, including frozen ones, with ease.

One of the best parts about using this grill is the XL capacity. It’s perfect for hosting big gatherings or simply cooking for a family of 8. The non-stick plates enable low or no-oil cooking, and the inclined plates help guide excess fat away from your food, resulting in healthier dishes.

Lastly, the ease of cleaning is a huge plus. This electric grill features removable, dishwasher-safe plates and a juice tray, making cleanup a breeze. The smokeless feature is also an added bonus, especially for those who dislike the smell of smoke in their kitchen.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks. The assembly process could be more straightforward, and while the stainless steel frame is durable, it’s not as sturdy as some other models I’ve tried. Nonetheless, these small downsides do not outweigh the overall performance and convenience of this indoor grill.

Stainless Steel Salton Panini Grill — Delicious Sandwiches in Minutes

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The Salton Panini Grill has been a game-changer in my sandwich-making routine. The stainless steel exterior gives it a sleek and durable look, while the floating hinge allows for a variety of sandwich sizes. The 1000-watt power grill heats up quickly, and the indicator lights are a helpful addition when you’re in a rush.

One feature that stood out to me was the versatility of the grill. While it excels at panini, I started experimenting with other foods like prawns, halibut, and even fruit. With proper oil spraying and time control, I found that the grill did an excellent job even with these more challenging items.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks. I missed having an ON/OFF switch, which meant unplugging the grill to turn it off. Also, the cord was rather small, which could be inconvenient if you’re far from an outlet.

Overall, the Salton Panini Grill has made my sandwich-making experience more enjoyable and efficient. The ability to customize my sandwiches with different fillings and the speed at which it operates are definite advantages.

Hamilton Beach Gourmet Sandwich Maker for Perfect Paninis

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The Hamilton Beach Panini Press Gourmet Sandwich Maker brings a café-style flair to your kitchen with its floating lid that evenly presses any size sandwich. You can achieve warm, crisp results without the need to flip with its nonstick top and bottom panini press grids. The top lid lock allows for the creation of easy bruschetta or open-face sandwiches. The upright storage design conserves space in your kitchen, and the stylish chrome finish adds a touch of class to your countertop.

Measuring 11.6 inches x 12.6 inches x 4.5 inches, this gourmet sandwich maker offers a generous grilling surface of 10 inches x 8 inches. Power and ready lights keep you informed about the appliance’s status as you grill your paninis. Upright storage further aids in conserving kitchen counter space.

Some users have noted slight challenges with cleaning, but the majority of reviews praise the appliance’s quality and affordable price. With a 110-volt voltage and 1400-watt power usage, cooking with this Hamilton Beach panini press Gourmet Sandwich Maker is a convenient and easy experience for sandwich lovers.

Superior 1200-Watt Black Non-Stick Panini Press with Temperature Control

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As someone who loves trying out new cooking gadgets, I was excited to test out the Holstein Housewares Grill, sear, and press. With its sleek black non-stick finish and adjustable floating hinged system, I knew I was in for a treat.

First, I used it to make some paninis, and I was blown away by how perfectly it cooked them. The temperature control knob was easy to use, and the non-stick coating made cleaning a breeze. The 180-degree grill was also a game-changer when it came to grilling proteins and veggies — the results were delicious!

However, there were a couple of downsides as well. The grill took a bit longer to heat up compared to my expectations, and I found that the drip tray wasn’t as effective as I would have liked in collecting all the excess oil.

Overall, though, the Holstein Housewares Grill, sear, and press proved to be a versatile and easy-to-use kitchen tool that added a lot of variety to my meal prep. It’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a new sandwich maker that does so much more!

Hello Kitty Grilled Cheese Sandwich Maker — Unique Kitchen Gift

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As a passionate sandwich lover and a fan of all things adorably cute, I recently stumbled upon the Hello Kitty Grilled Cheese Sandwich Maker by Uncanny Brands. This little gem brought a whole new level of excitement when I decided to give it a try.

The first thing that caught my attention was the compact size of the sandwich maker, which takes up minimal space on my countertop. Its unique design, featuring Hello Kitty’s iconic silhouette and bowed pattern on both sides of the sandwich, truly stole my heart. The inner plates, made of durable material, proved to be a game-changer, reducing the need for butter and oil while making the sandwich making process much easier.

One of my favorite aspects of this sandwich maker is that it’s not only perfect for grilled cheese, but it can also be used to create square waffles, French toast, brownies, and even omelettes. It’s so versatile, I found myself using it for various meals.

However, there was a minor flaw I noticed — a small scuff on the surface upon unboxing. But that didn’t deter me from enjoying this product and its delightful features.

Overall, the Hello Kitty Grilled Cheese Sandwich Maker by Uncanny Brands is a fantastic addition to my kitchen, offering both functionality and cuteness. Its small size, ease of cleaning, and versatility make it a must-have for Hello Kitty fans and sandwich lovers alike.

Cuisinart Stainless Steel Dual-Sandwich Panini Maker

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I recently tried the Cuisinart Dual-Sandwich Maker, and it definitely lived up to the hype. Its ability to make two sandwiches, omelets, or servings of French toast at once makes it perfect for my family’s busy mornings. The lock-down lid ensures both sides of the sandwich are evenly grilled, and the Ready to Cook and Ready to Eat indicator lights help streamline the process.

One of the standout features is the raised ridges in the cooking plates, which seal the edges of the bread or omelets and keep the ingredients inside. I also appreciate the nonstick baking plates that can be easily wiped clean in seconds. However, the deep pockets of this maker also come with a slight drawback — it might be a little challenging to clean the grooves and ridges in the plates.

Overall, the Cuisinart Dual-Sandwich Maker has been a game-changer for my family’s quick and easy breakfasts. With its versatility and convenient features, I highly recommend it to anyone looking to make delicious sandwiches, omelets, or French toast without the added hassle of standing over a hot stove.

GreenLife Electric Sandwich Maker — Safe & Easy, Clean-Up Nonstick Turquoise

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Oh, sure, you sandwich, but do you sandwich like a pro? Try the Sandwich Pro, a sleek and stylish electric sandwich maker that makes quick work of paninis, grilled cheese, and more. The quick heating system and handy indicator light mean your meal is always ready on time.

Plus, the locking handle holds your creation securely while cooking. And with GreenLife’s ceramic nonstick coating, cleanup is a breeze.

It’s a pro’s secret weapon for delicious and easy sandwiches.

Hamilton Beach Stainless Steel Panini Press and Indoor Grill — Silver

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Bring restaurant-quality meals to your home with the Hamilton Beach Panini Press and Indoor Grill. This versatile appliance allows you to create an array of delicious dishes using your favorite fresh ingredients. With a cafe-style floating lid that evenly presses sandwiches of any size, you can enjoy perfectly cooked meals every time. The 95 square inch cooking surface provides ample room for multiple sandwiches, while the non-stick grid ensures easy clean-up. The dishwasher-safe drip tray and included spatula/scraper make cleanup a breeze. The stainless steel exterior adds a sleek, modern touch to your kitchen counter.

This affordable panini maker is perfect for busy families, as it heats up quickly, making sandwiches in no time at all. Its compact size allows it to fit easily on your counter, while its versatility means you can use it for more than just sandwiches. Grilled burgers, hot dogs, steaks, and even chicken are all within reach with this versatile appliance. Its affordable price point and easy-to-use features make it a great addition to any kitchen.

While the Hamilton Beach Panini Press and Indoor Grill boasts many positive features, it does have a few drawbacks. The green light, which indicates when the grill is ready, can be difficult to see and determine if it is on or off. Additionally, the floating lid may not be ideal for larger sandwiches, as they may not fit properly. Overall, this panini maker offers a great combination of functionality and affordability, making it a top choice for home cooks looking to elevate their sandwich game.

Buyer’s Guide

A panini press is a versatile kitchen appliance that offers endless possibilities for cooking a wide range of dishes. These compact machines can not only grill and press sandwiches, but they can also cook vegetables, pizzas, and even sear meat. With so many models available on the market, making an informed decision can seem overwhelming. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explore the key features, considerations, and advice to help you choose the best panini press for your needs.

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Types of Panini Presses

Panini presses come in various types, including:

  1. Stovetop Presses, 2. Electric Griddles, 3. Contact Grills, and 4. Portable Panini Presses. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so consider your cooking preferences and the size of your kitchen when selecting a panini press. Stovetop and electric options tend to be more powerful, while portable models are more convenient for outdoor use or limited space.

Size and Material

When shopping for a panini press, consider the size of your kitchen and available counter space. Smaller models are ideal for limited spaces, but larger surfaces allow you to cook multiple items at once. As for materials, stainless steel and cast iron are durable and easy to clean, while non-stick surfaces reduce the risk of food sticking and make cleaning easier.

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Adjustable Settings

Most panini presses come with adjustable settings for temperature control and pressure distribution. This feature enables you to cook a variety of dishes, from crispy sandwiches to perfectly melted cheese, without overcooking or burning them. A locking mechanism on these models helps maintain the setting while you cook. Consider this feature for versatility and precision in your cooking.

Ease of Cleaning

After-cooking cleanup is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a panini press. Removable components such as the grilling surface and drip tray simplify cleanup. Look for models with dishwasher-safe parts, as this will save you time and effort in cleaning. Additionally, choose a panini press with a cool-touch exterior to prevent accidents when handling the machine after use.

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FAQ

What is a Panini Press?

A Panini Press is a versatile and compact kitchen appliance that is designed to press and grill sandwiches, meats, and vegetables. It typically consists of two plates that can be adjusted to accommodate different thicknesses of food, and a lever or handle that allows users to press the food between the plates for even cooking.

Panini Presses are popular for their ability to create restaurant-quality dishes at home, with grill marks that add flavor and texture to the food. They can be used for various dishes, including paninis, burgers, steak, chicken, and even fruit and vegetable skewers. Some models also come with additional features, such as temperature controls, removable plates, and dishwasher-safe components.

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What are the benefits of using a Panini Press?

Using a Panini Press offers several benefits compared to traditional cooking methods. The press helps to grill and press the sandwiches or meats, resulting in a crispy exterior and a moist, perfectly cooked interior. The grill marks add an aesthetic appeal and also enhance the flavor and texture of the food. Additionally, the Panini Press can be used for various recipes, making it a versatile and convenient appliance for any kitchen.

Another advantage is that Panini Presses are generally compact and easy to store, making them ideal for small kitchens or apartment living. They are also simple to use, with minimal assembly required, and many models are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup quick and hassle-free. Overall, a Panini Press is an excellent investment for any home cook looking to elevate their sandwich and grilling game.

What are some important features to consider when buying a Panini Press?

When purchasing a Panini Press, consider the following features to ensure you get the best value for your money:

  1. Plate Material: Non-stick coating is a must-have for easy cleaning, while cast iron plates provide even heat distribution and durability. 2) Size: Choose a size that suits your needs and storage space. 3) Heat Control: A temperature control feature allows for more precise cooking and prevents burning or overcooking. 4) Floating Lid: A floating lid adjusts to accommodate different food thicknesses and ensures even cooking.
  2. Removable Plates: Look for models with removable plates for easy cleaning and storage. 6) Dishwasher-Safe: A dishwasher-safe design makes cleanup quick and hassle-free. 7) Warranty and Customer Support: A reputable brand with good customer service can provide peace of mind and support for any issues that may arise.
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Can a Panini Press be used for cooking items other than sandwiches?

Absolutely! While a Panini Press is primarily designed for making sandwiches, it can also be used to cook various other dishes. Some ideas include:

  1. Grilled Cheese: A classic sandwich that can be made with a Panini Press. 2) Hamburgers and Hot Dogs: Grill your favorite burgers and hot dogs for a restaurant-quality experience. 3) Chicken, Steak, and Vegetables: Press and grill meats and vegetables for a flavorful and healthy meal. 4) Pizza and Flatbreads: Use the press to cook pizza and flatbreads with crispy, golden-brown crusts. 5) Fruit and Veggie Skewers: The press can be used to grill fruit and vegetable skewers as a healthy snack or light meal.

The key to success is to choose a Panini Press with a versatile design that allows for adjustable plate settings and even heat distribution. With these features, your Panini Press can serve as a go-to appliance for a variety of dishes, offering convenience and delicious results every time. So go ahead, experiment with your Panini Press and discover new and exciting recipes to share with friends and family.

What is the difference between an indoor Panini Press and an outdoor one?

The primary differences between indoor and outdoor Panini Presses are the power source, their build-quality, and the cooking environment. Indoor Panini Presses are typically electric and can be plugged into a regular wall outlet, allowing for easy and convenient use within the home. They are designed to be compact and lightweight for easy storage.

Outdoor Panini Presses, on the other hand, are usually gas-powered and require a propane tank or natural gas connection. They can be larger and more robust, suited for outdoor use and grilling over an open flame. Outdoor models may also come with additional features such as rotisserie capabilities or built-in thermometers. The choice between indoor and outdoor Panini Presses will depend on your cooking needs, available space, and personal preference.

Do I need to use any special cooking spray or oil when using a Panini Press?

While using a non-stick coating on the plates can minimize the need for additional cooking spray or oil, it is always a good idea to lightly grease the plates before cooking. This will help prevent the food from sticking and ensure a clean release. You can use a cooking spray specifically designed for non-stick surfaces or a small amount of oil, such as olive oil or vegetable oil.

If you are concerned about adding extra fat or calories to your meals, you can use a minimal amount of oil or cooking spray and still achieve excellent results. It is essential to clean the plates properly after each use to maintain their non-stick coating and prevent any buildup of residue or odors. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy delicious and easy-to-clean meals using your Panini Press.

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