Everyone loves a good meal, especially one that is easy to make.
A panini, meaning rolls in Italian is a simple solution that is both delicious and easy to prepare. It is no wonder that the panini press is gaining popularity all around the globe.
Commonly, you’ll find one in sandwich shops, and even in bakeries. The good news, however, is that you can also make them at home.
So, check out these best panini press grills and start making delicious panini for all your family to enjoy today!
The Best Panini Presses Reviews
1. Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler, Silver, Black Dials
The Cuisinart GR-4N features five cooking options. It makes great panini and several other foods too. These multiple options allow you to cook pancakes, sausages, grilled cheese, steaks, and hamburgers as well.
Just so adjustable…
Depending on your cooking needs, you can open and reshape the GR-4N. These shapes allow for more cooking space or for top and bottom cooking. Adjust the temperature, and you are all set.
This press is BPA free, so is safe to be used with food. And featuring Non-stick cooking plates, easy to clean as well.
Healthier foods all the time…
This item drains excess grease off your foods. Safely collected in its grease trap below, you get to eat healthier foods all the time.
Manufactured with a brushed stainless steel housing, this makes for a fine complement to your kitchen. Also dishwasher compatible, you get all joys with this item!
Pros
- Can be used for several types of foods – Grill/griddle, panini press.
- Adjustable heat controls.
- Flat open feature to create more cooking space.
- Automatic grease drain and collection.
- BPA free.
- Non-stick.
- Fine finish.
- Dishwasher compatible.
Cons
- The grease trap is not easy to pull out.
2. Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill
Everything is getting smart these days, apart from the staff here at Chef’s Resource, maybe? But, apart from us… you have smartphones, smartwatches, even smart water bottles. Well, here is a grill to add to your collection of “smart.”
So, why is it so ‘Smart’?
The Breville BGR820XL smart grill uses a technology called Element IQ. This technology works with heat sensors embedded in your grill plates to regulate cooking temperature. By making “smart” calculations, it distributes heat so that you get even results, every time.
The Element IQ also reduces the time required in preheating. Just place your panini, and the grill takes over!
Watch that display…
There’s a drip tray below that collects excess oil and a display that shows you your current cooking mode and temperature.
Versatile, this panini press can also be used to sear meat, make pancakes and even eggs. If you need more space for your barbecue searing or sizzle, open the cover to a 180-degree flat mode.
Easy as pie…
The BGR820X’s cooking plates are made from cast aluminum coated with titanium infused Quantanium. This gives you a superior non-stick surface. The housing is stainless steel, while the handle is made from ever cool die-cast material.
Dishwasher safe, and an adjustable height feature, this product scores high points on all-around use and function!
Pros
- Automatic, even heat feature.
- Reduced pre-heating time.
- Drip tray to collect excess oil.
- Non-stick.
- Ever-cool, ergonomic handle.
- Dishwasher safe.
- Six adjustable height settings.
Cons
- The non-stick coating comes off after a while.
- Not suitable for heavy use.
3. Hamilton Beach 25460A Electric Panini Press Sandwich Maker Grill
Coming in two sizes; medium and large, there is a 25460A electric panini press that is just right for you. This item has an exterior chrome finish, that is both attractive and durable.
The Hamilton Beach 25460A grills paninis of any thickness. The floating lid adjusts and perfectly presses your sandwiches evenly.
But, that’s not all…
This press has power and preheat lights. That way, you just have to keep an eye on your cooker while you do other things. And, once you’re done, cleaning is easy. Featuring a non-stick surface, a few wipes and you are good to go.
Its storage requires very little space, too, as it can be positioned upright.
A medium size 25460A takes two to three sandwiches at once. So, even with this smaller size, you have enough to go round. And in much less time!
Pros
- Two sizes to choose from.
- Durable, and attractive exterior.
- The adjustable lid allows for panini pressing of any thickness.
- Power and preheat lights.
- Non-stick.
- Requires less storage space.
Cons
- Uneven heating.
- Very fragile.
4. DeLonghi CGH912C Indoor Grill – Silver
With its five cooing functions, the DeLonghi has a lot to offer. It allows for use as a contact grill, panini press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle. This versatility makes it able to cook burgers, paninis, meat, fish, and even vegetables.
This product is made with scratch-resistant stainless steel, so it looks good for longer. The interior is coated with durastone ceramic; likewise scratch proof. This interior coat is non-stick and spreads heat evenly to your food.
Check it out once in a while…
The CGH912C automatically drains and collects excess oils. Featuring two drain collectors, you only have to check it out once in a while.
Just sit back, and enjoy your meal…
You do not need cooking gloves with this press as the handles are always cool to touch. Dishwasher compatible as well, just sit back, and enjoy your meal, while your cooking plate is washed in the kitchen!
Included in the pack is a free spatula for use with your best panini press.
Pros
- Versatile; five cooking functions.
- Scratch resistant interior and exterior.
- Non-stick.
- Two drip trays to collect excess oil.
- Even heat distribution.
- Ever cool handles.
- Dishwasher compatible.
- Free spatula included in the pack.
Cons
- The drip cups are independent items. They do not fit with the press except after some manual manipulation.
5. Cuisinart GR-11 Griddler 3-in-1 Grill And Panini Press
The Cuisinart GR-11 is great at three things. As a panini press, a grill, or a griddle. These three functions allow for more varied use of this product. Compact and with a well-polished finish, this item can easily be carried about with its large handle. This handle never heats up and the lid locks shut while not in use.
Featuring an upper and lower non-stick interior, cleaning this panini maker is easy. Also, removing your foods is never a problem.
Just right for your meals…
There are indicator lights on this cooker. These show you when your press is on and when it is at the right temperature to place your foods. Requiring no adjustment, the pre-set heat of this press is just right for your meals.
Even better, the floating top cover allows you to place any thickness of food on it. It adjusts to this size, and gives a firm even press over it.
With a drip tray and dishwasher compatibility, this item provides you healthy meals and a simple solution for your tummy!
Need more space?
Open this panini press flat, and you get double the surface area!
Pros
- Multi-functionality.
- Nice exterior.
- Flat open feature to create more cooking space.
- Always cool ergonomic handle.
- Non-stick.
- Power and preheat lights.
- Drip tray to collect excess oil.
- Dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Very fragile.
- The top plate has been known to fall off while in use.
- Temperature setting cannot be adjusted.
6. Oster CKSTPM6001-TECO Extra Panini Maker And Indoor Grill – Black
The Oster panini press is made larger than average to meet demand faster. Apart from its large size, it is also designed to cook up to 30 percent faster than other panini machines.
Aside from its panini press function, you can open this units’ cover (up to 110 degrees) to grill your meat, fish, and vegetables. It is made with a PFOA- and PTFE-free ceramic coating that ensures easy food release and safe meals. This coating is scratch resistant and is as well easy to clean.
But, that’s not all…
There is a drip tray at the bottom. This collects excess oil from your foods. Adjustable feet help these oils flow in faster or slower, as you please.
Able to accommodate different sandwich thickness, while cooking them evenly, it is the go-to item for your next panini!
Pros
- Large size.
- Faster cooking time.
- Grill function compatible.
- Chemical free composition.
- Scratch resistant non-stick surface.
- Drip tray to collect excess oils.
- Adjustable feet.
- Evan heating.
Cons
- Non-removable grill plates make it slightly more difficult to clean.
- No on/off switch.
7. George Foreman GRP4842P Multi-Plate Evolve Grill
Black, red or platinum? What’s your choice? You get the flexibility of a favorite pick with the George Foreman GRP4842P. Coming with two sets of removable plates, you get a grill, panini and waffle maker in one.
With a special searing burst feature, you also get a 90-second high-heat (500 degrees Fahrenheit) to give your food a professional finish. And, it has a timer setting and adjustable temperature. Both are displayed on the screen to give you an exact value. Thus, you can easily make further adjustments for better results.
Easy food release and easy cleaning…
Multi-layer non-stick. This allows for easy food release and easy cleaning. The exterior is likewise easy to clean as the buttons are flatted out against the panini presses’ surface. Plus, being PTFE- and PFOA-free, this product is safe to use. Able to adjust to fit any sandwich thickness, this press also has an adjustable tilt for easier oil drainage.
The plates are removable for hand or dishwashing. The handle, likewise, stays ever cool, to make your experience with this panini press a cool one, nearly as cool as George himself.
Pros
- Searing burst feature to give better results.
- LCD display.
- Adjustable timer and temperature settings.
- Durable multi-layer non-stick feature.
- Easy to clean interior and exterior.
- PTFE- and PFOA-free.
- Drip tray to collect excess oils.
- Adjustable tilt.
- Dishwasher safe cooking plates.
- Ever cool handle.
Cons
- The second pair of removable plates are sold separately.
- The non-stick feature does not last that long.
8. Breville BSG520XL Panini Duo 1500-Watt Nonstick Panini Press
Sturdy and durable, the Breville BSG520XL is both functional and good looking. With its brushed stainless steel housing, this makes a fine addition to your kitchenware.
This panini press heats up fairly quickly (top and bottom). Its interior surfaces are non-stick and scratch resistant. The top plate impresses perfect looking sear marks on your food to give it the perfect visual finish.
Works with any sandwich thickness…
The top plate is held in place with a floating hinge. This hinge type makes it able to work with any sandwich thickness you throw at it. There are lights that show you when the unit is powered up, and when it is properly heated up for use.
This grill is equipped with effective anti-slip feet and is not likely to slip unexpectedly or cause a kitchen accident. Its handle is thermally insulated and remains ever cool while in use. Even better, it has an adjustable height control that you set to fit your needs. In addition, it is equipped with a slot for winding the power cord.
The first company to make a home use panini press, the Breville team has a history of high product standards, and they do not compromise on this model.
Pros
- Nice finish.
- Fast heat up time.
- Even top and bottom cooking.
- Non-stick and scratch resistant interior surface.
- Power on and preheat indicator lights.
- Anti-slip feet.
- Adjustable height control.
- Power cord winding slot allows for safer and easier storage.
Cons
- No on/off switch.
9. Lodge LPP3 Cast Iron Square Ribbed Panini Press – 8.25-Inch
Why take all the fun out of cooking by plugging your panini press into the mains? Buy the Breville BSG520XL and make your panini on a stovetop!
Hardy and rugged, this panini press is made of cast iron cookware. Food safe, it is a material that lasts for ages. The handle is cast as “one with the press,” so it never comes off.
Great results, every time…
Place this panini press over your stove, and you’ll see it distributes heat evenly. You simply need to season it with some oil and press down your panini. You’ll get great results, every time.
Easy to clean, a simple handwash does the trick. The press is ribbed to give the best visual finish to your meal.
Pros
- Super durable.
- Made from food safe material.
- Even heat distribution.
- Easy to clean.
- Ribbed press for a nice food finish.
Cons
- All-manual.
- Excess oils drip onto your stovetop.
- Rusts if not properly maintained.
10. Imusa GAU-80102 Large Electric Panini Press 1400-Watts – Silver
The Imusa GAU-80102 is a multipurpose panini press. Its larger than average cooking surface provides even top and bottom heating for your panini, sandwiches, meats, vegetables, etc. This non-stick surface is smooth and is much easier to clean.
It comes with a power and an heat indicator light. While the floating hinge top allows this press to be able to work nicely with any sandwich thickness.
And, with its nicely polished stainless steel exterior, it will look just great in your kitchen!
Pros
- Large cooking surface.
- Non-stick.
- Power and heat up indicator lights.
- Nice polished exterior.
Cons
- No oil drip feature.
- Uneven heat distribution.
- Doesn’t give grill marks to your foods.
- No temperature adjustment switch/buttons.
Best Panini Press Buying Guide
For reference, we’ve listed the most important considerations you need to make before buying your best panini press.
Capacity And Power
The bigger your device, the faster you make more paninis. You should buy a panini press that is best suited for your needs. If you have a family or commonly have friends over, a larger press is better for you. Larger devices, however, consume more power. So, if you need the press for personal use, a smaller or medium size press will be a better pick for you.
Versatility
While it is rare to find any best panini press that does not have more than one function, some are still more versatile than others. A versatile panini press allows you to do a lot more. It also means that you don’t need to buy another device to do a function that your panini press can do already.
Cooking Plate
A long-lasting non-stick feature is a must. This allows for easy release of your food. It also allows for easy cleaning afterward. You should also favor a panini press that has removable plates. These are even easier to clean, and several of them are dishwasher compatible.
In addition, the cooking plate should be able to distribute heat evenly. This eliminates hot spots and gives you edible food that is properly browned and safe to eat.
Finally, you will have to choose a design that suits you. There are three types of plates: the smooth, grooved and mixed (they are smooth on one side and grooved on the other). While the smooth is easier to clean, the grooves give you marks and make for a more visually attractive finish to your food.
Extra Features
A timer and adjustable temperature are nice features to look out for in your best panini press. A timer allows for easier operation of your press. The temperature setting allows for some experimentation with your food texture and taste.
A drip tray and hinges are hardware features that you should take note of. A drip tray automatically collects oils that drip from your food. If a panini press does not offer this process as an automatic feature, such a product will make more mess in your kitchen.
The hinges allow the top plate to be adjustable. This thus allows the press to fit any sandwich thickness you throw in there. Check for this as well.
Manual Or Electric?
While the electric panini press is generally easier to use, depending on your needs, you should decide which is the best fit for you.
Best Panini Press Usage Tips
Like all kitchen equipment, getting a few tips will help you make the best out of your panini press. So, here are a few to turn you into a master panini chef!
Read The User Manual
In order to understand how your equipment works, start by reading the instructions in the manual that came with it. The reason is that each model is different and will work in a different way. So, to avoid damaging it, take a note of the things that should not be done with your press.
Similarly, to avoid wasting time using guesswork to make it work properly, follow the instructions in the manual.
Preheat It
Like any pan or oven, your press also needs to be preheated before cooking. Once heated, your panini press can directly receive food, and cooking can begin immediately. Since paninis take a short time to cook, heating up your press before placing your sandwich will give you better, more consistent results.
Vary The Use Of The Machine
As noted, any one of these best panini presses is dynamic and versatile. Why not throw in some poultry, burgers, sausages, seafood or fish and get that cooking too? Flattening and eating panini is great, but variety, as the common saying goes, is the spice of life.
Clean Your Machine
After each use, clean your press. For this, different methods are available to you, depending on the model you have. If your model is made of removable plates, remove them and put them in the dishwasher so that it takes care of the cleaning. But, if the model you have does not have this option, take a damp sponge and scrub the entire inner surface of the grill.
If the plates are not removable, be careful not to splash the electrical part.
Above all, do not forget to empty the drip tray that collects your foods excess oils. Empty the oil for future use and wash this tray.
So, What's The Best Panini Press?
Whether you’re a professional chef or a simple food lover, you need a panini press. Able to process a lot of meals, this machine is an indispensable appliance in your kitchenware collection.
So to our winner, our pick for the best panini press is the…
Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler
This beautiful panini press comes loaded with features. And being compatible with a lot of foods, and an expandable cooking surface, it is just awesome. Also free from chemicals, and offering you a superior non-stick surface, this press is both safe and easy to use. Able to automatically drain and collect excess oils – means healthy meals for you!
Dishwasher compatible, just sit on your couch with your delicious panini in your hand, your dishwasher will do the cleanup!
