Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the scent of savory turkey mingling with the sweet aroma of apple butter brought back memories of cozy family dinners. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Turkey Panini recipe, a delicious way to transform those holiday leftovers into a comforting meal you’ll crave long after the festivities have ended. This quick and easy sandwich comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need something satisfying without a lot of fuss. With customizable ingredients, you can make it your own—whether adding a hint of sage or swapping in your favorite cheese. Are you ready to elevate your leftover turkey game? Let’s dive into sandwich bliss! Why is this Turkey Panini a must-try? Savory and Sweet Delight: The combination of savory turkey and sweet apple butter creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds. Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes, this panini is perfect for those busy days when you crave comfort food without the hassle. Customizable Flavor: Mix and match ingredients to suit your preferences—try different cheeses or add cranberry sauce for a twist! Perfect for Leftovers: Make the most of your holiday turkey; this recipe is an innovative way to reduce waste and enjoy every last bite. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a cozy family meal or a casual gathering with friends, this panini is sure to impress. If you love comforting sandwiches, check out my Japanese Katsu Bowls for more delicious ideas! Turkey Panini Ingredients • Dive into creating your perfect Turkey Panini with these essential ingredients! For the Sandwich Hearty Bread – Choose a durable type to hold all the satisfying fillings when grilled. Butter (softened) – Adds richness and helps achieve a crispy golden crust; olive oil can be used as an alternative. Apple Butter – Introduces a sweet and moist flavor profile; can substitute with any sweet jam or leftover cranberry sauce for a twist. Sharp Cheddar Cheese (thinly sliced) – Offers a bold flavor contrast; feel free to swap for Gouda or Havarti if desired. Apple (thinly sliced) – Provides a refreshing crunch; any firm apple variety works wonderfully here. Deli Turkey (sliced or leftover) – The hearty main protein source; any cooked turkey is great for this recipe. Fresh Sage (leaves) – Adds aromatic depth; thyme is a good substitute, or you can omit it if unavailable. Optional Additions Cranberry Sauce – Adds a festive twist; perfect if you want to highlight that holiday flavor. Sliced Veggies – Consider adding bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Different Cheeses – Experiment with provolone or Swiss to change up the flavor profile. Now you’re all set to whip up a fantastic Turkey Panini that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Turkey Panini Step 1: Preheat the Panini Maker Begin by preheating your panini maker to medium-high heat. This should take about 5 minutes. If you do not have a panini maker, preheat a skillet over medium heat instead. A properly heated surface ensures that your Easy Turkey Panini will cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. Step 2: Prepare the Bread While your panini maker heats up, take your hearty bread and spread a generous layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. This buttered side will create a crispy texture during grilling. Don’t skimp on the butter; it’s essential for flavor and achieving that inviting crunch when cooked. Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich Once the maker is hot, place one slice of bread butter-side down on the panini maker. Now, quickly spread a layer of apple butter on the slice to add sweetness, followed by thin layers of sharp cheddar cheese, apple slices, and deli turkey. For an aromatic touch, add a few fresh sage leaves, enhancing the flavor profile of your Turkey Panini. Step 4: Layer Up On top of your turkey layer, add another few layers of apple slices and cheese, giving your panini depth and character. Take your second slice of bread, spread a dollop of apple butter on the unbuttered side, and place it on top of the sandwich with the buttered side facing up. This will lock in all those delicious fillings. Step 5: Cook the Panini Now it’s time to press and cook! Close the lid of the panini maker firmly and let it cook for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and once you see the bread turn golden and crispy, it’s a sign that your Easy Turkey Panini is nearing completion. Step 6: Serve Warm When the timer goes off, carefully open the panini maker and remove the sandwich using a spatula. Let it cool for a minute before slicing it in half to reveal the gooey melted cheese and colorful layers inside. Serve your Turkey Panini warm, perhaps with pickles or a simple salad, for an extra satisfying meal. How to Store and Freeze Turkey Panini Fridge: Store leftover Turkey Panini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the sandwich fresh and ready for a quick meal. Freezer: If you want to save your Turkey Panini for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a panini maker or skillet until heated through and crispy. Notes: To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid freezing with fresh ingredients like apple slices, as they may become soggy when thawed. What to Serve with Easy Turkey Panini? To create a delightful meal that perfectly complements the comforting flavors of this panini, consider these tasty pairings. Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch of cabbage and carrots adds a light, tangy contrast to the savory panini. Pickle Spear: The tanginess of a pickle cuts through the rich flavors, balancing the sweetness of the apple butter beautifully. Simple Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette; the vibrant flavors will lift the entire meal. For a cozy touch, pair the panini with Butternut Squash Soup: Its creamy texture and mild sweetness complement the savory elements, creating a comforting duo. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, serve with Apple Crisp: This dessert enhances the apple flavors and brings a homey feel to your meal. Finally, consider pairing with a Chilled Iced Tea: Its refreshing qualities help cleanse the palate between bites, making for a delightful dining experience. Turkey Panini Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Turkey Panini and make it your own with these fun twists! Different Breads: Swap out hearty bread for hoagie rolls or even croissants to change the sandwich’s texture and flavor profile. Fruity Additions: Add slices of pear or a handful of arugula for an extra burst of freshness and a peppery bite. You’ll be amazed at how these ingredients elevate the entire sandwich experience! Sauce Swaps: Instead of apple butter, try using cranberry sauce or fig jam for a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with turkey. Each option introduces a delightful flavor twist! Cheese Choices: Switch sharp cheddar for a rich Brie or a tangy goat cheese, creating a whole new taste adventure. Both cheeses melt beautifully, adding a luscious creaminess. Heat Levels: For a bit of kick, include sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This adds just the right amount of spice to keep your taste buds tingling! Vegetable Boost: Incorporate roasted red peppers, spinach, or even caramelized onions for added depth and flavor. These veggies not only enhance nutrition but also add a colorful touch. Herbal Enhancements: Swap sage for fresh basil or parsley to impart a different herbaceous note. Each brings a new layer of freshness that brightens the flavor of your panini. Substitute Meats: If turkey isn’t on hand, deli chicken or even ham work wonderfully as a hearty alternative. You’ll find that each option adds its own unique character to the sandwich. And if you’re looking for more delicious inspirations, give my Japanese Katsu Bowls a try next! Make Ahead Options These Turkey Paninis are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling components—like the turkey, apple slices, and cheese—up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and prevent browning in the apples, consider sprinkling them with a little lemon juice. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the butter and apple butter on the bread, layer your prepped ingredients, and grill in the panini maker for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy. You’ll enjoy a delicious Turkey Panini that’s just as delightful as when made fresh, without the last-minute rush! Expert Tips for the Best Turkey Panini Heat Settings: Adjust the panini maker’s heat; lower heat helps cook the bottom evenly while ensuring a crispy top without burning. Cooking Alternative: No panini maker? No problem! Use a skillet and a heavy object wrapped in foil to press down your sandwich for similar results. Layer Carefully: Avoid overstuffing your Turkey Panini; too many ingredients can make it difficult to close and cook evenly. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh apples and quality turkey for the best flavor; leftover turkey works fine but ensure it’s not dried out. Serving Suggestion: Serve your panini with a side of coleslaw or a simple salad to balance the rich flavors and make it a complete meal. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the sandwich in an airtight container; reheating is best done with steaming methods to maintain moisture. Turkey Panini Recipe FAQs What type of bread is best for a Turkey Panini? When selecting bread for your Turkey Panini, go for a hearty option like sourdough or ciabatta. These breads hold up well to grilling and provide a satisfying crunch. Avoid very soft breads, as they may become soggy during cooking. How should I store leftover Turkey Panini? Absolutely! To store your leftover Turkey Panini, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, this method inhibits moisture loss while keeping the flavors intact! Can I freeze Turkey Panini? If so, how? Yes, you can freeze your Turkey Panini! Here’s how: Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a panini maker or skillet. What should I do if my panini maker isn’t heating evenly? If your panini maker isn’t heating evenly, try adjusting the heat settings. Setting the heat lower for the bottom can help cook it more uniformly. Also, ensure that the lid of the panini maker is pressing down firmly to facilitate even cooking. Can I customize the ingredients in the Turkey Panini? Very! The Turkey Panini is incredibly flexible. Feel free to swap in different cheeses like Gouda or add cranberry sauce for an extra burst of flavor. You could even replace the turkey with other proteins, such as ham or grilled vegetables, making it your own creation. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes, if you’re catering to specific dietary needs, check for allergies related to key ingredients. For example, be cautious with the cheese if lactose intolerance is a concern. Also, substitute the butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version if desired. Savory Turkey Panini with Apple Butter – A Flavor Game Changer An easy Turkey Panini recipe combining savory turkey and sweet apple butter, perfect for transforming holiday leftovers into a comforting meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsCooling Time 1 minute minTotal Time 16 minutes mins Servings: 2 sandwichesCourse: LunchCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sandwich2 slices Hearty Bread Durable type to hold fillings2 tablespoons Butter Softened2 tablespoons Apple Butter4 slices Sharp Cheddar Cheese Thinly sliced1 medium Apple Thinly sliced4 ounces Deli Turkey Sliced or leftover4 leaves Fresh Sage Optional; adds aromatic depthOptional Additions2 tablespoons Cranberry Sauce Optional, for a festive twist1 cup Sliced Veggies Consider bell peppers or spinach2 slices Different Cheeses Provolone or Swiss to change flavor Equipment Panini MakerSkillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your panini maker to medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.Place one slice of bread butter-side down, spread a layer of apple butter, add layers of cheese, apple slices, and turkey, finishing with fresh sage.Layer more apple and cheese, then top with the second slice of bread, apple butter-side down.Close the panini maker and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.Remove from the maker, cool for a minute, slice, and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap tightly and consume within 2 months. Avoid freezing with fresh apple slices to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
