From Cuban to Panini, pressed sandwiches simply taste better. Before the invention of electric presses, the Panini Press was the go-to tool. I contend that it is still superior to the electric variety available today.
You can better control the heat, and the results are improved. However, many contemporary newspapers are not designed for sandwiches. They are rectangular and intended for a different function. The best cast iron panini press should be snug and produce distinct grill marks.
Best Cast Iron Panini Press On The Market Right Now
What is a Cast Iron Panini Press?
A sandwich or panini press made of cast iron is a press designed specifically for making sandwiches. The grooves and size are a snug fit with the grill pan below. Other cast-iron presses are designed to press steaks and burgers down. Although you can attempt to use it, it is typically too small. The result is a sandwich with partial pressing. You require something to cover the entire sandwich.
How to Use a Cast Iron Panini Press
There are several ways to use a Panini Press made of cast iron. My method is both more efficient and practical. Both the Press and Pan must be heated on separate burners. When they are hot, grease both sides with a brush; if it makes things easier, you can also lubricate the sandwich. Place the sandwich in the middle of the plate and press down. After 30 seconds, I would examine the sandwich to determine how dark it was.
Alternately, this can be accomplished by heating the grill. After adding butter to a hot plate, place a sandwich on it. Press it down and let it brown. Then, flip it over and press again. Make sure it fits the groove. This will ensure that the sandwich has uniform grill marks.
How to Clean Cast Iron Panini Press
I recommend using a simple wipe to clean. Use some mild dish soap if necessary to remove the excess grease. However, excessive scrubbing can result in the loss of seasoning. Models with an enamel coating can tolerate harsher soaps. You should acquire one if you do not have a cast-iron grill brush.
Suppose you notice that food has become stubbornly adhered to your teeth. Using salt and a paper towel as an abrasive should work reasonably well.
Best Cast Iron Panini Press: 10 Models Reviewed
Below is a list of the best cast iron panini presses. Choose one of the available models that best meet your requirements.
1. Best Overall - Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Panini Press
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Panini Press, 9″, Licorice
The panini press, made of durable cast iron, simultaneously heats the top and bottom of grilled sandwiches in the square Skillet Grill. The ribbed, weighted press also includes a convenient phenolic knob for lifting the press safely and securely when cooking is complete.
The ribbed surface of the cast iron Panini Press is coated with a black satin enamel that eliminates the need for traditional seasoning and maintenance. The Panini Press, crafted from our renowned cast iron, has the same exceptional heat distribution and retention qualities for even browning.
Preheat the panini press on the stovetop or in the oven for perfectly toasted sandwiches, then place it on top of the sandwiches. Although the cast iron panini press is compatible with most heating elements, it is not advised for use on glass or ceramic stovetops.
The grilling sandwiches stuffed with deli meats, cheeses, and vegetables originated in Italy, although hot sandwiches like panini are enjoyed worldwide. Derived from the Italian word panino, which means “small bread,” panini sandwiches are typically served with a simple garlic rub or alongside a fresh olive or pasta salad.
Key Features
- Ribbed surface creates grill marks on the top side of sandwiches
- Le Creuset’s durable satin black enamel finish (no seasoning required)
- Even heat distribution and superior heat retention
- A heat-resistant phenolic knob provides a safe grip when lifting
2. Higly Rated - Victoria Cast Iron Panini Grill Press
Victoria Cast Iron Panini, Burger, Bacon, Grill Press Seasoned with 100% Kosher Certified Non-GMO Flaxseed Oil, 8.3 x 4.4 Inch, Black
$18.30
On the stove or grill, who doesn’t enjoy a piece of well-pressed, crispy bacon? You know you want it. However, do not burn your hands! Use this Victoria cast iron press on the grill for bacon, steaks, and burgers to homemade paninis. Halve your cooking time and make bacon that is consistently crispy and crunchy!
This seasoned Victoria barbecue tool is ideal for preventing bacon, chicken breasts, burgers, and steaks from curling.
The dimensions are ideal for a 12-inch Lodge cast iron skillet. It has significant mass to accomplish its purpose. The handles are removable for re-seasoning in the oven, which is also convenient because you can replace them if they ever wear out or break. It is simple to maintain and clean. It works well for other uses besides cooking meat.
This item is made in Columbia and is already seasoned. This press is well-made and does not appear to be made of Chinese pot metal. It is packaged in a cardboard sleeve with care instructions and warranty information. The manufacturer provides a limited lifetime warranty on the product.
It is appropriately cast, with crisp, clear detail and fine grain, pet-free surfaces. This press’s bottom is perfectly flat with a waffle-like texture and is still very simple to clean. The wooden handle is a nice touch and is easily detachable with two screws if you need to re-season the press in the oven. You will adore this press if you comprehend and appreciate cast iron cookware. Additionally, they produce the finest tortilla presses available.
Key Features
- Seasoned with 100% Non-GMO Flaxseed Oil
- Heavy-duty cast-iron meat weight
- Screw-removable cool-touch wood handle.
- For use indoors and outdoors.
- Measures 8.3 x 4.4, and weighs 2.15 lbs.
- Cooks bacon from 8 to 4 minutes
- Made in Colombia
3. Best for Small Sandwich - Norpro Mini Cast Iron Panini Pan with Press
Norpro Mini Cast Iron Panini Pan with Press, 5.9 IN, As Shown
$20.25
Enjoy grill marks that are perfectly crisp and warm melted fillings. Ideal for Paninis, steaks, burgers, chops, fish, bacon, sausages, quesadillas, and grilled cheese. For rapid, uniform heat distribution and retention, use cast iron.
Raised ridges produce ideal grill marks and allow excess fat to drain into the grooves. The perfect portion size for individual servings. Outdoor or indoor use.
Small and simple to store and carry. It’s just big enough to make one sandwich, and I was hesitant because of the size, but because it’s made of cast iron, I’ve discovered I can make sandwiches faster because the cast iron doesn’t lose heat when a new sandwich is added.
Use this durable press on your griddle, skillet, or grill. The grill marks are flawless, and the pan is simple to clean. Remember that this pan is made of cast iron, so it requires more care when washing than other pans. So, you should wash by hand, then thoroughly rinse and dry. Never soak cast iron in the water.
Key Features
- Cast iron for fast, even heat distribution and retention. Pre-seasoned and ready to use.
- Ideal for Panini sandwiches, steaks, burgers, chops, fish, bacon, sausages, quesadillas, grilled cheese and more!
- Raised ridges leave perfect grill marks and allow fats to drain into the grooves.
- Outdoor and indoor use. Recipes and instructions included
- Pan measures 6-inch/15 cm diameter and handle is 4. 5-inch/11. 5cm
- Hand wash, rinse thoroughly and dry. Never soak cast iron.
4. Best Buy - Norpro Italian Panini Sandwich Press And Steak Chicken Grill Cast Iron
Norpro Italian Panini Sandwich Press And Steak Chicken Grill Cast Iron New 8.5 inch
$22.91
Norpro’s Panini Press enables you to quickly and easily create Trattoria-style sandwiches at home. By grilling both sides of a sandwich simultaneously, you will save time, and the food will be evenly cooked each time you use your press.
The Norpro fits in my square LC grill pan perfectly. Using my new Norpro “enamel” press, we made grilled sandwiches with New York steak, Swiss cheese, and sourdough bread. The sandwiches were exceptional! The sandwich was not required to be flipped.
Both sides of the meat were grilled to a golden-brown color with distinct grill marks. It may have been slightly, but only slightly, uneven from the press, but it functioned flawlessly. The ability to use an indoor grill pan requires practice. I enjoy the challenge of avoiding the use of all-electric appliances, such as a panini press.
This amusing kitchen accessory is ideal for steaks, chicken, burgers, tuna melts, and grilled cheese. The construction of stainless-steel increases durability. Hand washes, then thoroughly rinse and dry. Never soak cast iron in the water.
Key Features
- Measures: 2. 25″ x 8. 5″ x 8. 25″ / 5. 5cm x 21. 5cm x 21cm
- Make perfect trattoria-style Italian panini sandwiches. Cut grilling time in half by grilling on both sides at once.
- Made of Enamel coated Cast Iron.
- Ideal for steaks, burgers and chicken. Heats quickly and grills evenly.
- Hand wash, rinse and dry – never soak cast iron.
- Recipe and instructions included.
- Included Components: Norpro 963 Italian Panini Sandwich Press, Steak, Chicken Grill, Cast Iron
5. Best Seller - Cuisinart CGPR-221 Cast Iron Grill Press
Cuisinart CGPR-221 Cast Iron Grill Press (Wood Handle), Weighs 2.8-pounds
The Cuisinart Cast Iron Grill Press is a convenient tool that makes grilling simpler, quicker, and healthier. Remove excess fat from the meat and grill it to create more nutritious meals. Heat the press on your grill and use it to grill the top of your food, reducing cooking times and creating professional-quality grill marks.
The ridged surface will always produce perfect char marks when the grill press is sufficiently heated. Start by preheating it to the same temperature as the grill or pan, then place it directly on top of the food to speed up the cooking process. Large enough to simultaneously press two burgers. Excellent for bacon, pork chops, and holding hot dogs in place on the grill.
Ideal for creating creative paninis on the grill. The nearly three-pound weight of the press and its comfortable wooden handle make it easy to transport around your grill.
This is a must-have item for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice. Cast iron evenly radiates heat, allowing food to cook to perfection. By removing fat while searing meat, complex flavors are developed. Hand-wash the grill press like any other cast-iron cookware and dry it immediately to prevent rust and ruining the seasoning.
Key Features
- CAST IRON CONSTRUCTION: Durable cast iron press weighs 2. 8-pound
- WOOD HANDLE: The wooden handle provides a comfortable grip with a stylish touch
- HEALTHY GRILLING: Press out unwanted excess fat and oils from meats
- GRILL MARKS: Add incredible looking grill marks to any meat
- GREAT FOR SANDWICHES: Make delicious homemade panini sandwiches or grilled cheese right on the griddle!
- EASY CLEANUP: Hand wash and dry immediately after washing
6. Best for Meat - Jim Beam Stainless Steel Cast Iron Meat Press
Jim Beam Stainless Steel Cast Iron Meat Press, Pre Seasoned for Delicious Meat, Steak, Beef and Patty, Heavy Duty Construction
$18.74
This cast-iron meat press from Jim Beam is an excellent product that meets the highest quality and functionality standards. This meat press is ideal for hamburgers, seafood, steak, and even vegetables and can be used effectively on any grilling surface.
The steak weight is made from food-grade cast iron, which is healthy, safe, corrosion-resistant, rust-resistant, and durable. It can be used for an extended period. It has a unique texture design that produces professional grill marks on the meat.
Searing bacon is the key to the best steaks, beef, and burgers, so control the tanginess with the best method for searing. The next bacon, steak, or sandwich you cook will sear evenly, eliminating raw or overcooked sections, thanks to this specially crafted 3 lb press. Designed to fit in almost any cooking space, you won’t worry about your bacon curling up during cooking with this heavy-duty bacon press.
The only way to clean this meat press is by hand. This Jim Beam meat press is user-friendly and produces evenly cooked food.
Key Features
- 9.5-inch long and presses down
- 100% heavy-duty cast iron
- Heavy Duty Construction with Stainless Steel Spiral Handle
- Grills Evenly While Pressing Out Unwanted Fat
7. Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Press with Cool-Grip Spiral Handle
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Press with Cool-Grip Spiral Handle, 4.5 inch X 6.75 inch, Black
$19.90
The Lodge Rectangular Grill Press prevents bacon from curling and squeezes excess grease from burgers when used on a stovetop or grill. When preheated, the press significantly reduces cooking time.
This grill press has a heavy-duty cast iron base, a stay-cool spiral handle, and a hammered finish. It is seasoned with oil for a natural, easy-release finish that improves with use at home in the oven, stovetop, grill, or campfire. Additionally ideal for induction cooktops. Unmatched heat retention and uniform heating.
The included hardware is stainless steel and functions well; I believe the issue is that customers feel the included nuts should go on quickly, but they do not. Consider the nuts to be lock nuts, as they are coarsely threaded and do not screw on easily.
Although the bottom is flat, it is not perfectly smooth and has the texture of a cast-iron skillet – a bit rough but consistent with a cast iron product. The pan weighed 2.74 ounces with the handle attached, an ideal weight for ensuring longevity and keeping food in place.
It comes pre-seasoned, but if you want to use it without first washing it, you will need to re-season it periodically (a simple task). They recommend it after every use, but you can decide for yourself.
After cleaning, wash by hand and dry immediately with a towel. A light coating of cooking oil is applied to the grill press. A flathead screwdriver and an adjustable wrench or pliers are required for assembly.
Key Features
- One Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Press With Cool-grip Spiral Handle, 6.75 Inch x 4.5 Inch
- Cool-grip Spiral Handle provides a safe, comfortable grip
- Unparalleled heat retention and even heating
- Use in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire
- Great for induction cooktops.Item shape: Rectangular
8. Best for bacon - Norpro Cast Iron Bacon Press with Wood Handle
While frying, bacon curls, making it difficult to cook evenly. A long time ago, chefs discovered a simple solution to this problem: flattening bacon with a cast-iron press to maintain its proper shape. The Norpro press adheres to this custom.
It is constructed of traditional cast iron and has a wooden handle that remains cool during use. The press can be preheated to expedite the bacon-frying process; it can also be preheated prior to flattening hamburgers, grilled sandwiches, or quesadillas. Season the press by coating it with oil and heating it for twenty minutes; after cleaning it with soapy water, it should also be coated lightly with vegetable oil to prevent rust.
I prefer flat burgers and bacon, and this press holds the burger down and prevents the bacon from rolling up. The wooden handle is simple to grasp. The piece is simply lovely.
Key Features
- Measures: 6.75″ x 4″ x 3.25” / 17cm x 10cm x 8cm
- Even the best cut bacon can curl, making it difficult to cook evenly. Our Cast Iron Grill Press flattens the bacon, keeping its shape for even cooking.
- Features a wooden handle that stays cool to the touch.
- Ideal for bacon, ham, grilled sandwiches, hamburgers and quesadillas. Or use as a steak weight! In a skillet on the stovetop or outside on the grill!
- Includes instructions for seasoning before use, cleaning and storage.
9. Best for Burger - Cuisinart CSBP-200 Stuffed, 4-in-1 Burger Press
Cuisinart CSBP-200 Stuffed, 4-in-1 Burger Press
Few things are more memorable than the juiciness of a stuffed hamburger and using a Cuisinart Stuffed Burger Press to make one with your favorite ingredients is a breeze. In a few simple steps, you can prepare a customized stuffed burger for grilling and serving to friends. Simple cleanup.
With a Cuisinart Stuffed Burger Press, it is easier than ever to prepare a variety of tasty stuffed burgers. Imagine hosting a burger-bar with creative ingredients, allowing guests to create their own unique flavors. Try Hawaiian hamburgers, chicken Cordon Bleu hamburgers, chili hamburgers, pizza hamburgers, Mexican hamburgers, Reuben hamburgers, or Buffalo chicken hamburgers.
This is ideal for 1/4-lb and 1/3-lb patties… precisely what I was looking for at a lower price. After pressing, you can pop up the disc from the bottom that the patty sits on, and the patty comes right off without sticking, which was a brilliant design, in my opinion. Using a cold burger also aids in adhesion.
My only minor criticism is that the plastic handle cannot withstand excessive force, so be careful not to crack it. I did not break mine, but I could hear it straining when applied excessive force.
Key Features
- Faster and less messy than pressing by hand
- Makes a perfectly sized burger for standard buns
- A fun way to be creative with new ingredients
- Makes restaurant style sliders and burger patties up to ¾ lb.
- A great tool for a “make-your-own” burger bar
- Makes a great gift
10. Best Set - Lagostina Nera Hard Anodized Nonstick 10-Inch Panini Pan with Cast Iron Press
Lagostina Nera Hard Anodized Nonstick 10-Inch Panini Pan with Cast Iron Press, 2-Piece Cookware Set, Dishwasher Safe,Grey
Inspired by generations of passionate Italian cooking, the Lagostina Nera hard-anodized 2-piece set includes a 10-inch Panini pan and cast-iron press. The Panini pan and cast-iron press make a beautiful pair in the kitchen.
Prepare delicious Panini sandwiches and tasty chicken dishes with perfect grill marks. The cast riveted stainless steel panhandle is designed for a lifetime of durability and stability. The dual-layer, metal-utensil-safe nonstick interior makes cooking more enjoyable and facilitates quick cleanup. This Panini pan with cast iron press is a kitchen essential. A lifetime warranty applies.
I use it every day to make panini and flatbread sandwiches. The “press” made of cast iron does not heat up. Unless you were to use a different burner. However, weight is more effective for pressing the sandwich into the pan’s heat.
After another minute or so, on the other side, the sandwich is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks. It works like a panini press without taking up counter/cabinet space with a bulky appliance that may stop functioning in a year. This pan and its cast-iron counterpart will work if you have a compatible stovetop.
It is an excellent complement to our Lagostino pots. When we don’t want to grill outside, it works wonderfully and makes delicious paninis. I wish the grooves were deeper, but the product still performs admirably.
Key Features
- Heavy-gauge hard anodized aluminum construction for durability.
- The dual-layer, metal-utensil safe nonstick interior makes the cooking experience even more enjoyable and the cleanup quick.
- The comfortable stainless-steel handles are fully cast and riveted onto pans for strength and stability over a lifetime of use.
- The hammered stainless-steel lids add another beautiful feature and provide a tight seal to lock in flavor while simmering.
- Dishwasher safe and oven safe to 500°f for more convenience
Best Cast Iron Panini Press - FAQs
In addition to the guidelines for selecting the best cast iron Panini Press, I also include my concise responses to frequently asked questions. This section may also help you resolve your problems.
Prepare your panini grill by preventing rust and food from sticking to its seasoning. After thoroughly cleaning and drying your panini grill after the first use, apply a light coating of cooking oil to the cast-iron plates and set the temperature to its maximum.
Conclusion
Using a Cast Iron Sandwich and Panini Press is an excellent way to produce deep and attractive grill marks. They are more efficient and take up less space than the electric model. The most effective models have a tight press.
They have superior grill lines and fit the grooves more precisely. If you have a Le Creuset model, get le creuset. For Lodge, get Lodge. Nevertheless, if you already own a generic grill, a generic model from Norpro may be preferable. It is also considerably cheaper.
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