Go Back

Classic Turkey Cranberry Panini Sandwich

A warm and comforting turkey panini featuring layers of savory turkey, creamy Swiss cheese, and sweet cranberry sauce, all crisped to perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwich
  • 8 slices sourdough bread Can substitute with whole wheat or ciabatta.
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened Divided for spreading on the outside of the sandwiches.
  • 8 oz thinly sliced cooked turkey breast Deli-style roasted turkey or leftover holiday turkey works best.
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese Can substitute with provolone, mozzarella, or Havarti.
  • 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce Can substitute with fig jam, cherry preserves, or apple chutney.
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise Can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach or arugula Can substitute with baby kale or romaine.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat a panini press, or heat a large skillet over medium heat with a heavy pan or bacon press ready to weigh the sandwiches down.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
Assembly
  1. Spread the mayonnaise-Dijon mixture on one side of 4 bread slices.
  2. Spread the cranberry sauce on one side of the remaining 4 bread slices.
  3. Layer the turkey and Swiss cheese onto the mayonnaise-coated bread slices.
  4. Add a small handful of spinach or arugula on top, and then close each sandwich with the cranberry-sauce-coated slice.
Cooking
  1. Spread the softened butter evenly over the outside of both bread slices on each sandwich.
  2. Grill the sandwiches for 4 to 5 minutes in a panini press, or cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side in a skillet, pressing down firmly with a heavy pan.
  3. Continue until both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Serving
  1. Let the sandwiches rest for 1 to 2 minutes before slicing them in half.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Make sure not to overstuff the sandwiches, and maintain medium heat for grilling to ensure proper melting. Buttering the outside of the bread is essential for a crispy finish.