From its buttery, crispy exterior to the core of its gooey, cheesy center, paninis are arguably the perfect sandwich. The secret of a panini press is that it cooks both sides of the sandwich at the same time, elevating a sad sandwich to something spectacular. Panini presses are a convenient kitchen appliance to have when hot sandwiches are on the menu.
The Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler is a multitasking workhorse that creates delicious paninis, perfect burgers and fluffy pancakes on the same cooking surface.
The magic of panini presses lies in their plates, the area where the sandwich is actually cooked. There are two types to choose from.
Determine how many people you're cooking for. If you have a large family (and storage space in your kitchen), invest in a larger press to accommodate it. Singles and couples should do just fine with a smaller panini press.
With a traditional hinge, your sandwich thickness is limited because the press can't open up wider. Traditional hinges also result in uneven cooking, with the area toward the back of the press cooking faster. A floating hinge accommodates a thicker sandwich and cooks more evenly.
Another bonus to a floating hinge is that the press can be opened all the way to have two flat surfaces to grill on. This works well when cooking for a crowd, effectively doubling your cooking area.
Removable plates are a must-have if you use your panini press regularly. They pop out for easy cleaning, either by hand or in the dishwasher.
Panini presses that have more than one function often come with reversible plates. One side is ridged for grill marks, while the other is flat to use as a griddle.
The temperature on a panini press reaches up to 500 degrees. Because the handle hovers just above the cooking surface, it can get quite hot and become dangerous. Look for a press with a heat-resistant handle.
Low-end presses frequently have two settings: off and on. Spending just a little more money affords you more temperature control and expands your cooking possibilities.
These controls might be a dial that allows you to control the temperature (as seen on toasters), or they might be actual temperature settings to fine-tune your cooking. Some luxury panini presses allow you to set different temperatures for different zones on the cooking plates.
There's no way around it: using the griddle for delectable meats and cheeses produces liquids that can run all over your counters. A drip tray catches these and keeps counters tidy, making for easier cleanup.
Depending on size and extra features, expect to spend $30-$150 on a panini press.
A. If your panini press has removable nonstick plates, simply pop them out of the press and into the dishwasher after each use. If you prefer, you can hand-wash these.
Cast iron plates require hand-washing and re-seasoning from time to time. This takes a little more effort but will keep your press in top shape.
If your plates aren't removable, wipe them down well after each use, making sure to remove all bits of food. Empty the drip tray and wipe the outside of the press clean before storing.
A. It depends on what you're cooking, but most sandwiches take five to seven minutes to reach crispy, golden perfection.
What you need to know: This press is versatile and also works as a contact grill, full grill, full griddle and half grill/half griddle.
What you’ll love: It features a floating handle to accommodate thicker sandwiches. The exterior is brushed stainless for an upscale look. The cooking plate is removable for easy cleanup. Temperature is adjustable, and it comes with a scraper and recipes.
What you should consider: It’s expensive, and some users report weak hinges.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair
Hamilton Beach Electric Panini Press
What you need to know: This panini press heats up quickly and cooks evenly.
What you’ll love: The preheat button makes it easy to know when the grill is ready to go. It has a floating lid and can prepare three sandwiches at a time, depending on the size. Lock the lid in an open position for bruschetta or open-faced sandwiches. It folds up for easy storage.
What you should consider: The plates aren't removable for cleaning.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon, Home Depot and Wayfair
Chefman Electric Panini Press Grill
What you need to know: This panini press lid opens to lay flat for double the cooking capacity.
What you’ll love: The plates are nonstick. A floating hinge means the press accommodates even the thickest sandwiches, and opening the lid completely allows you to cook for a crowd. Non-skid feet keep it stable on countertops. It’s compact and good for smaller kitchens.
What you should consider: This takes awhile to heat up, and it only has one heat setting.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Suzannah Kolbeck writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
