Transform your favorite pizza flavors into a portable, golden-crisp delight with this irresistible Pizza Panini recipe! Crafted with crusty ciabatta bread, gooey melted mozzarella, zesty marinara sauce, and savory pepperoni slices, this panini delivers all the indulgent satisfaction of classic pizza in half the time. Infused with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and optional Parmesan for extra depth, the sandwich is panini-pressed to perfection, creating a crunchy, buttery exterior that encases the warm, cheesy filling. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or any time a pizza craving strikes. Garnish with fresh basil for a flavorful finish, and let your taste buds celebrate this handheld pizza masterpiece!
Preheat a panini press or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Spread the softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
Flip the slices over and spread 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce on the non-buttered side of each slice.
Sprinkle half the shredded mozzarella cheese on one of the marinara-covered slices.
Lay the pepperoni slices (or your chosen pizza toppings) evenly over the cheese, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Dust the cheese with Italian seasoning and, if desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Place the second slice of bread on top, marinara side facing in, forming a sandwich.
Place the sandwich in the preheated panini press. Close the lid and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. If using a skillet, press the sandwich with a spatula and flip carefully halfway through cooking.
Remove the panini from the heat and let it cool slightly before slicing it in half.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Calories |
1416 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 106.6 g | 137% | |
| Saturated Fat | 45.8 g | 229% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 227 mg | 76% | |
| Sodium | 4078 mg | 177% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 62.6 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.2 g | ||
| Protein | 53.6 g | 107% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 444 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 470 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.