Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini Recipe
A delicious and easy-to-make Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini combining savory turkey, sharp cheddar, sweet apple slices, and a tangy honey-Dijon spread grilled to golden perfection between crispy whole grain bread slices. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
- Author: Elias
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Bread & Spreads
- 8 slices of whole grain bread
- 4 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 4 tbsp honey
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Filling
- 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
- Prepare the Spreads: In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and honey until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Panini: Lay out four slices of whole grain bread. Spread a tablespoon of the honey-Dijon mixture on each slice. On top of that, layer turkey breast, followed by sharp cheddar slices and apple slices. If using, add a handful of fresh arugula or spinach. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Top each sandwich with another slice of bread.
- Butter the Bread: Spread softened unsalted butter generously on the outside of each sandwich. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust while grilling.
- Heat the Panini Press or Skillet: If using a panini press, preheat it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a skillet, place it over medium heat.
- Grill the Panini: If using a panini press, place the sandwiches in the press and close it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. If using a skillet, place the sandwiches in the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side. If necessary, weight them down with another pan to ensure even grilling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once grilled to perfection, remove the panini from the heat, let cool for a minute, then slice in half. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of warm turkey, melty cheddar, sweet apples, and tangy honey-Dijon sauce!
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast that pairs well with the cheese and turkey.
- For added greens, fresh arugula or spinach can be included in the sandwich.
- Butter the outer sides of the bread generously to ensure a crispy and golden crust.
- If you don’t have a panini press, a heavy skillet or grill pan with another weighted pan on top works well.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste based on your preference.
- This sandwich is best served immediately for warm melty cheese and crispy bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 panini
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Apple Cheddar Turkey Panini, turkey sandwich, grilled panini, honey Dijon sauce, sharp cheddar, whole grain bread, healthy sandwich