Top-Rated Panini Press for Making Gourmet Grilled Cheese: An Actionable Guide

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a beloved classic. Simple yet satisfying, this comforting dish has evolved into a gourmet delight with the right combination of artisanal breads, premium cheeses, and flavorful additions. But to achieve the perfect golden, crispy crust with a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth interior, a high-quality panini press is a must-have tool in your kitchen.

In this guide, we will explore why a panini press is ideal for making gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, what to look for in the best models, and highlight some top-rated panini presses that will take your grilled cheese game to the next level.

Why a Panini Press is Perfect for Making Gourmet Grilled Cheese

1. Consistent Heat Distribution

A key to making the perfect grilled cheese sandwich is ensuring that heat is distributed evenly. A panini press offers consistent heat from both the top and bottom plates, ensuring that the bread is evenly toasted and the cheese melts perfectly. This eliminates the risk of uneven grilling or burning that you might face with a stovetop skillet.

2. Crispy, Golden Crust

A panini press applies direct heat to both sides of the bread, creating a perfectly crisp and golden exterior. Whether you're using thick artisan bread, sourdough, or any other gourmet variety, the press ensures that every bite is satisfyingly crunchy without burning the bread.

3. Time Efficiency

Unlike a stovetop skillet, which requires constant flipping and adjusting of the heat, a panini press simplifies the process. Simply place your sandwich inside, close the press, and let it work its magic. This results in a perfectly cooked grilled cheese in less time, making it ideal for those busy moments when you crave a quick but delicious meal.

4. Perfect for Cheese Melting

Gourmet grilled cheese often involves a combination of different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, brie, or even blue cheese. A panini press ensures that all the cheeses melt perfectly, without overcooking the bread. This is especially important for achieving that smooth, creamy interior that's a hallmark of a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich.

What to Look for in a Panini Press for Gourmet Grilled Cheese

1. Adjustable Temperature Control

Grilled cheese requires a balance of high heat for crisping the bread and lower heat for melting the cheese inside. A panini press with adjustable temperature control gives you the flexibility to fine-tune the heat, ensuring that your sandwich cooks perfectly without burning.

2. Floating Hinge

When making gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, you might use thick or multiple layers of bread. A floating hinge allows the top plate to adjust to the height of the sandwich, ensuring that it presses down evenly without crushing the sandwich or spilling out the ingredients.

3. Non-Stick Plates

Grilled cheese sandwiches are known for their cheesy fillings, which can sometimes ooze out during cooking. Non-stick plates are crucial for easy cleanup and prevent the cheese and butter from sticking to the press. Additionally, non-stick plates provide an even cooking surface that ensures the bread toasts perfectly without adhering to the grill.

4. Sufficient Cooking Surface

If you plan on making multiple sandwiches at once, or if you prefer larger, gourmet-sized sandwiches, look for a panini press with a spacious cooking surface. A model with a larger plate ensures you can fit multiple sandwiches or one large sandwich at a time, making it more efficient when cooking for a crowd.

5. Durability and Build Quality

A well-built panini press is essential for consistent results. Stainless steel models are often more durable and have a professional feel. You want a panini press that can withstand frequent use without compromising on performance. Heavy-duty models also tend to retain heat better, providing even cooking over time.

Top-Rated Panini Presses for Making Gourmet Grilled Cheese

1. Cuisinart GR-4N 5-in-1 Griddler

• Size: 11 x 9 inches cooking surface
• Features: 5-in-1 functionality (panini press, grill, griddle, etc.), removable non-stick plates, adjustable temperature control, and floating hinge.
• Why It's Great: The Cuisinart GR-4N is known for its versatility and superior cooking performance. With a spacious cooking surface and adjustable heat settings, it's perfect for making large, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. The removable, dishwasher-safe plates make cleanup a breeze.
• Ideal For: Those who want a multi-purpose kitchen tool that excels at grilled cheese and other sandwiches.

2. Breville BGR820BXL Smart Grill

• Size: 12 x 9 inches cooking surface
• Features: Dual-zone temperature control, adjustable floating hinge, removable, dishwasher-safe plates, brushed stainless steel body, and smart cooking technology.
• Why It's Great: This panini press is ideal for grilled cheese lovers who want precision. The Breville BGR820BXL features dual-zone temperature control, allowing you to cook different items at different temperatures at the same time. Its high-quality construction ensures durability, while the floating hinge adjusts to accommodate thick sandwiches.
• Ideal For: Those who want an advanced, high-tech press with precise temperature control for gourmet sandwiches.

3. Hamilton Beach 25460A Panini Press Grill

• Size: 8 x 10 inches cooking surface
• Features: Floating lid, non-stick cooking plates, and slim design for easy storage.
• Why It's Great: This model is a budget-friendly, reliable option for those who want a no-fuss panini press. The Hamilton Beach 25460A provides great results with its floating lid, allowing you to create evenly pressed gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. It's compact, simple to use, and easy to store.
• Ideal For: Budget-conscious buyers looking for an efficient, straightforward panini press.

4. T-fal GC722D53 OptiGrill+

• Size: 9 x 7 inches cooking surface
• Features: Automatic cooking programs, sensor cooking technology, non-stick plates, and adjustable temperature.
• Why It's Great: The T-fal OptiGrill+ is equipped with sensor technology that automatically adjusts cooking time based on the thickness of your sandwich. This is especially helpful when dealing with gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches that feature multiple ingredients or thick slices of bread. The non-stick plates make cleanup easy and ensure a perfectly cooked sandwich every time.
• Ideal For: Those who prefer an automatic cooking experience with minimal intervention.

5. DeLonghi CGH800 Contact Grill

• Size: 10 x 8 inches cooking surface
• Features: Adjustable temperature control, floating hinge, non-stick plates, and stainless steel exterior.
• Why It's Great: The DeLonghi CGH800 provides a generous cooking surface, making it ideal for larger sandwiches or even multiple sandwiches at once. It offers adjustable heat settings, allowing you to perfect the crispiness of your bread while ensuring the cheese melts evenly.
• Ideal For: People who need a versatile, high-performance press for a variety of sandwiches, not just grilled cheese.

Tips for Making Gourmet Grilled Cheese with a Panini Press

1. Use High-Quality Bread

The foundation of any gourmet grilled cheese is the bread. Opt for artisan breads like sourdough, ciabatta, or multigrain. These breads have a firmer texture that holds up well to the heat of the panini press and gives the sandwich a more sophisticated flavor.

2. Mix Cheeses for Extra Flavor

Try combining different types of cheeses like sharp cheddar, brie, mozzarella, and gouda for a creamy, flavorful filling. Grated cheese melts more evenly than slices, but you can also layer slices for a different texture.

3. Butter or Oil the Bread

For that perfect golden crust, spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of the bread before grilling. Alternatively, you can use olive oil for a different flavor profile. This ensures that the bread crisps up beautifully while the cheese melts perfectly.

4. Don't Overstuff the Sandwich

Gourmet grilled cheese is about balance. Overloading your sandwich with too much cheese or too many toppings can lead to uneven cooking and oozing cheese. Stick to a moderate amount of fillings to achieve the perfect grilled cheese.

5. Check for Doneness

Panini presses cook quickly, so keep an eye on your sandwich. Once you notice that the bread is golden and the cheese is oozing out, it's time to remove it. Don't overcook, as the bread can become too hard or burnt.

Conclusion

The panini press is a game-changer for anyone looking to make perfect gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. It provides consistent heat, quick cooking times, and the ability to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while ensuring the cheese inside is perfectly melted. With the right panini press, you can elevate your grilled cheese sandwiches to a whole new level, experimenting with different breads, cheeses, and add-ins.

Whether you choose a versatile model like the Cuisinart GR-4N or the high-tech Breville BGR820BXL , each of these top-rated panini presses will help you create restaurant-quality grilled cheese sandwiches in the comfort of your home. So fire up your panini press and get ready to indulge in the ultimate gourmet grilled cheese experience.