In Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, panini sandwiches are rapidly growing in popularity. The term panini actually refers to a pressed and toasted sandwich. Panini makers, or presses as they are often called, operate by pressing a heated plate to the sandwich on both top and bottom, squeezing the sandwich between. The ideal panini is heated until the cheese is melted and gooey and the bread is toasted. Of course, there is a huge variety of panini makers out there.
Here, we will be discussing what may very well be the top five panini grills on the market:
#5 – BELLA 13267 Non-Stick Panini Grill
Simplicity at its very finest would describe the BELLA 13267 Non-Stick Panini Grill. Of course, as in the name, the grill has a non-stick surface, which functions very well. To add to its simplicity the grill has a single dial with which to control the temperature, so even a novice sandwich maker can use it. This model also includes a power light and a ready light. While this grill doesn’t have many fancy features and is quite small, it is overall perhaps one of the easiest to use these grills.
#4 – BREVILLE BSG520XL PANINI DUO 1500 WATT NON-STICK PANINI PRESS
The Breville BSG520XL Panini Duo 1500-Watt Nonstick Panini Press is a bit more advanced than the one previously discussed. It includes a non-scratch, Quantanium surface. A ribbed top makes grill marks on the bread, and due to its flat bottom, the cooking is extraordinarily fast. This has four height settings, so you can stack your sandwich as high as you want and it will still get cooked. This particular press also has non-slip feet, so you can be sure you won’t have any accidents. Reasonably priced, it also comes with a full one year warranty just in the event that something goes bad.
#3 – GEORGE FOREMAN PN2PC 180 PANNINI MAKER
This is truly a professionals pannini maker. Not only does the have a large cooking surface, it also has a floating hinge with an adjustable slope! This will guarantee even cooking in your sandwich. What”s also great is that the plates are not only removable, but dishwasher safe too. Cleaning up is super easy with this model. There is no need to use your elbow grease and wipe down the surface. And of course, like most pannini grills, this one has a non-stick surface so you won’t have to bother with oil.
#2 – CUISINART GR-11 GRIDDLER 3-IN-1 GRILL AND PANINI PRESS
Don’t be fooled by this model’s small size. It opens flat to widen your cooking area. Not only does panini sandwiches, but it also cooks burgers and steaks too, and it definitely has the room for it. Temperature presets make cooking steaks and burgers a breeze. And of course, it comes with a power light. A unique feature is the adjustable feet, which allows the grease to drain easier. Much like the George Foreman model, this grill comes with dishwasher safe plates, so cleaning up is easy.
#1 – DE’LONGHI CGH800 CONTACT GRILL
It is truly a state of the art press for Pannini – the De’Longhi CGH800 Best Pannini Grill. The hinge is adjustable, so this will cook food of any height or size. Not only can it grill sandwiches, but much like the Cuisinart model, it cooks fish and other meats. The plates are easy to clean – just wipe them down and drain the oil or grease. Because it is slanted, it will cook the grease out of your food, making it healthier to eat. It also has a thermostat which you can adjust.
