Name: Amazing 10-Minute Roast Turkey Panini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices of bread (ciabatta or sourdough); 200g roasted turkey fillet, sliced; 4 slices Swiss cheese; 1 tomato, sliced; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves; 2 tbsp softened butter

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Roast turkey panini has become my go-to for a quick, satisfying lunch that feels incredibly gourmet. I first fell in love with this sandwich after visiting a little cafe that served a similar creation, piled high with tender turkey and gooey cheese. The combination of that crispy, golden bread and the savory filling is just divine! Now, I whip up this easy roast turkey panini at home whenever I have leftover roasted turkey, or even just need a fast dinner. It’s a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into something truly special. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Roast Turkey Panini

This isn’t just any sandwich; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll be making this roast turkey panini again and again:

Incredibly Quick: Ready in about 10 minutes, perfect for busy days.
Super Satisfying: The combination of crispy bread and melted cheese is pure comfort.
Versatile: A fantastic way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
Flavorful: The Dijon-mayo spread adds a fantastic tangy kick.
Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite additions, like in this turkey breast panini recipe.
Perfect Texture: Golden, crispy bread meets juicy turkey and gooey cheese.
Easy to Make: You don’t need fancy equipment, just a press or skillet.
Impressive Meal: It feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to assemble, making it a great deli roast turkey panini alternative.

Ingredients for Your Roast Turkey Panini

Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect turkey panini. I love using ciabatta or sourdough for that ideal crust, but any sturdy bread works well for this roast turkey panini recipe. The key is good quality roasted turkey, so feel free to use leftovers or thick-sliced deli turkey breast.

4 slices of bread (ciabatta or sourdough recommended) – for that perfect crisp exterior
200g roasted turkey fillet, sliced – the star of our sandwich!
4 slices Swiss cheese – melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor
1 tomato, thinly sliced – adds a touch of freshness
1/4 cup mayonnaise – the base for our zesty spread
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard – for a tangy kick to complement the turkey
1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves – adds a healthy green element
2 tbsp softened butter – essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust

Amazing 10-Minute Roast Turkey Panini - Roast Turkey Panini - main visual representation

How to Make the Best Roast Turkey Panini

Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate roast turkey panini. It’s incredibly straightforward, and you’ll be enjoying this delicious sandwich in no time.

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the 1/4 cup mayonnaise and 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard. This creates a creamy, tangy spread that’s perfect for our panini. For a homemade option, check out this easy homemade mayonnaise recipe.
Step 2: Spread a generous layer of the Dijon-mayo mixture on one side of each of the 4 slices of bread. This is going to add so much flavor!
Step 3: On two of the bread slices, spread-side up, begin layering your fillings. Start with the 200g sliced roasted turkey.
Step 4: Top the turkey with the 4 slices of Swiss cheese, followed by the thinly sliced tomato and a handful of fresh spinach leaves. This is where your turkey breast panini recipe really comes to life!
Step 5: Place the remaining two bread slices on top, spread-side down, to complete the sandwich assembly.
Step 6: Generously butter the outer sides of both assembled sandwiches with the 2 tbsp softened butter. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown, crispy exterior.
Step 7: Preheat your panini press or a large skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the sandwiches.
Step 8: Carefully place the buttered sandwiches onto the hot press or skillet. If using a skillet, press down firmly with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread toast evenly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 9: You’re looking for that perfect moment when the bread is golden brown and delightfully crispy, and the Swiss cheese is melted into a gooey, irresistible layer. The aroma is amazing!
Step 10: Remove the sandwiches from the heat, let them rest for just a minute (this helps the cheese set a little), then slice them diagonally. Serve your incredible roast turkey panini warm and enjoy every bite!

Delicious Variations for Your Turkey Panini

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas for your next turkey panini recipe:

Thanksgiving Leftover Delight: Add a smear of cranberry sauce and a few stuffing crumbles for a full holiday flavor explosion.
Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into your Dijon-mayo or add some pickled jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Veggie Lover’s Dream: Load up on extra veggies like roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, or even some arugula for a peppery bite.
Pesto Power: Swap the Dijon-mayo for a generous spread of pesto for an Italian-inspired twist.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Roast Turkey Panini

Achieving that café-quality panini at home is totally doable with a few insider tricks. These tips will ensure your sandwich is always a winner:

Use slightly stale bread; it gets much crispier than fresh loaves.
Don’t skimp on the butter on the outside of the bread for maximum crispiness.
Press down firmly while cooking for even toasting and melting.
Ensure your turkey and cheese are evenly distributed for balanced bites.

What’s the secret to a perfectly crispy roast turkey panini?

The secret is in the buttered exterior and medium heat. Buttering the bread generously and cooking over medium heat ensures the bread toasts evenly without burning before the cheese has a chance to melt beautifully. For more on achieving perfect crispiness in cooking, you might find resources on the science of crispy food helpful.

Can I make a deli roast turkey panini ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble the sandwich (without buttering the outside) up to a few hours ahead. Store it in the refrigerator. Butter the outside right before cooking for the crispiest result.

How do I avoid common mistakes when making a turkey breast panini recipe?

Avoid using bread that’s too soft or fresh, as it can become soggy. Also, don’t overcrowd the panini press or skillet; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even heating and browning.

Serving Suggestions for Your Roast Turkey Panini

This delicious roast turkey panini is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to make it a complete feast. For a classic deli experience, serve it alongside a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette. If you’re craving something heartier, a cup of creamy tomato soup is an absolute dream with a warm, gooey turkey panini – it’s the ultimate comfort food pairing. You could also serve it with a side of sweet potato fries or a simple coleslaw for a satisfying lunch or dinner. These pairings really enhance the flavors of your oven roasted turkey panini.

Nutrition Facts for Roast Turkey Panini

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious roast turkey panini. This recipe makes two servings, so the values are calculated for one sandwich.

Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 850mg
Cholesterol: 75mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of bread and turkey.

How to Store and Reheat Your Roast Turkey Panini

Even though this roast turkey panini is best enjoyed fresh off the press, I’ve found ways to save leftovers for later. Once your panini has cooled completely to room temperature, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn. You can store these wrapped paninis in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, pop them into the freezer for up to 3 months. Properly stored, your panini will still be delicious when you’re ready for another quick meal. For more tips on food storage, you can refer to resources from the FoodSafety.gov.

When you’re ready to reheat your stored panini, there are a few great methods. For a crispy, just-pressed texture, I recommend reheating it in a panini press or a skillet over medium-low heat for about 3-5 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melty again. You can also use your oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. While the microwave is the fastest, it won’t give you that satisfying crunch, so I usually skip it for this particular sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roast Turkey Panini

What is a roast turkey panini?

A roast turkey panini is a warm, pressed sandwich featuring sliced roast turkey, cheese, and often other fillings like tomatoes and spinach, all grilled between two slices of bread until golden brown and the cheese is melted. It’s a delicious way to enjoy turkey, especially when using leftovers, and offers a delightful crispy exterior and gooey interior.

Can I use deli turkey for a roast turkey panini?

Absolutely! While homemade roast turkey is fantastic, high-quality deli roast turkey slices work wonderfully for a quick and easy turkey panini. Look for thicker-cut slices if possible. It’s a great shortcut for making an amazing deli roast turkey panini any day of the week.

What bread is best for a roast turkey panini?

Sturdy breads like ciabatta, sourdough, or focaccia hold up best to pressing and grilling, giving you that perfect crispy crust. Avoid very soft or thinly sliced bread, as it can become soggy or burn too quickly. A good bread is key to an excellent roast turkey panini recipe.

How do I make a turkey panini with roasted turkey without a panini press?

No problem! You can easily make a delicious roast turkey panini using a skillet or frying pan. Simply assemble your sandwich, butter the outside, and place it in a preheated medium-hot skillet. Press down firmly with a spatula or place a heavy pot on top to mimic the press. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.