Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini Recipe

Introduction

The Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini is a delicious blend of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Combining tender turkey, sharp cheddar, crisp apples, and a honey-Dijon spread, this panini delivers a satisfying crunch and melty, tangy goodness every bite.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of whole grain bread
• 8 oz sliced turkey breast
• 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced
• 1 large apple (such as Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• 4 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 4 tbsp honey
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• Fresh arugula or spinach (optional for added greens)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the spreads by mixing Dijon mustard and honey in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Lay out four slices of whole grain bread. Spread one tablespoon of the honey-Dijon mixture on each slice.
3. Step 3: Layer turkey breast slices over the spread, followed by sharp cheddar cheese and thin apple slices. Add fresh arugula or spinach if using. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Step 4: Top each sandwich with the remaining bread slices to close.
5. Step 5: Spread softened butter generously on the outside of each sandwich to help achieve a crispy, golden crust.
6. Step 6: Preheat a panini press or skillet over medium heat.
7. Step 7: If using a panini press, place sandwiches inside, close the lid, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the bread is golden and cheese is melted.
8. Step 8: If using a skillet, cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side. Use a second pan or weight to press sandwiches evenly.
9. Step 9: Remove the panini from heat, let cool for a minute, slice in half, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute Granny Smith apples with Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on the apple slices for a warm, spiced touch.
• Use sourdough or ciabatta bread for a different texture and flavor profile.
• For added creaminess, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or cream cheese inside the sandwich.
• Include a few slices of crispy bacon for extra savory flavor.

Storage

Store leftover panini wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or panini press to restore the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute sharp cheddar with Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella depending on your taste preference.

What if I don’t have a panini press?

You can cook the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat, pressing them down gently with a spatula or another heavy pan to mimic the press effect.

Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 101 reviews

This Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini combines savory sliced turkey and sharp cheddar cheese with sweet and tangy honey-Dijon mustard and crisp apple slices for a perfectly balanced gourmet sandwich. Grilled to golden perfection with a buttery crust, it’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be ready in under 40 minutes.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sandwich Ingredients

• 8 slices of whole grain bread
• 8 oz sliced turkey breast
• 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced
• 1 large apple (such as Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• Fresh arugula or spinach (optional for added greens)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Spreads and Butter

• 4 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 4 tbsp honey
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spreads: In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard and honey thoroughly to create the honey-Dijon spread. Set aside to use in assembling the sandwiches.
2. Assemble the Panini: Lay out four slices of whole grain bread. Spread one tablespoon of the honey-Dijon mixture evenly on each slice. Layer sliced turkey breast, then the sharp cheddar slices followed by the thin apple slices on top. Optionally, add a handful of fresh arugula or spinach for a fresh green touch. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Complete by topping each sandwich with the remaining bread slices.
3. Butter the Bread: Generously spread the softened unsalted butter on the outside surfaces of each assembled sandwich. This step ensures a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
4. Heat the Panini Press or Skillet: Preheat your panini press according to manufacturer instructions. If using a skillet, place it over medium heat to warm.
5. Grill the Panini: For panini press users, place the sandwiches inside and close the lid. Grill for 4-5 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts. If grilling on a skillet, cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side. Use another pan to press down gently for even grilling.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches once grilled perfectly. Let them cool for a minute, slice in half, and serve warm. Enjoy the harmonious blend of warm turkey, melty cheddar, crisp apples, and tangy honey-Dijon sauce!

Notes

• Use Granny Smith apples for tartness, but other firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji can also work well.
• Butter choice impacts crispiness; unsalted butter is preferred to control salt levels.
• Adding fresh greens like arugula adds a peppery bite and nutrition but can be omitted if desired.
• Adjust honey and mustard quantities to taste for more or less sweetness or tang.
• Skillet grilling may require a weight or press to simulate panini press results.
• Serve immediately for best texture; the panini is best enjoyed warm and fresh.

Keywords: Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini, Grilled Sandwich, Turkey Panini, Honey Dijon Panini, Fall Sandwich, Quick Dinner Recipe, Grilled Cheese with Apple, Whole Grain Bread Sandwich