Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe
If you could capture the very essence of a classic Italian caprese salad and transform it into the most irresistible, melty sandwich imaginable, you’d end up with this Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe. Imagine golden, crisp sourdough hugging gooey mozzarella, sweet-tart tomatoes, fresh basil, and that unbeatable tangy-sweet balsamic drizzle—all pressed together in perfect harmony. This is the sort of recipe you’ll want to memorize and make on repeat, whether you’re hosting friends for lunch or just need a mouthwatering meal you can whip up in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this sandwich lies in its handful of uncomplicated, vibrant ingredients, each one playing its part to create a panini that’s as stunning as it is crave-worthy. Seek out the absolute best you can find—a quality loaf, plump tomatoes, and the freshest mozzarella all shine in this Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe.
- Sourdough or Ciabatta Bread (4 slices): Choose a rustic loaf with just enough chew and crunch—this is your panini’s foundation and brings out the best texture for griddling.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Brushed on the bread, it guarantees that signature golden-brown, crispy crust while infusing subtle richness.
- Fresh Mozzarella (8 oz, sliced): Melty, oozy, and wildly creamy—don’t substitute with the low-moisture kind, fresh is key here.
- Medium Tomatoes (2, sliced): Ripe and juicy tomatoes add sweet acidity and pair beautifully with the cheese.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (1/2 cup): These bring a vibrant pop of color and that classic, peppery aroma that makes caprese truly shine.
- Balsamic Glaze (2 tablespoons): The sweet, syrupy tang ties everything together and gives the panini its irresistible signature flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Never skip! A light sprinkle elevates every ingredient and brings out their best.
- Unsalted Butter (1 tablespoon, for grilling): Butter in the pan helps turn your panini gorgeously golden and crisp, making every bite sing.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Start your culinary adventure by brushing one side of each slice of sourdough or ciabatta with luscious olive oil. This step sets you up for ultimate crunch and bronzed flavor, so be generous—but don’t drown the bread. The unbrushed side is where all the magic layers will go.
Step 2: Layer the Goodness
On the unbrushed side of two bread slices, start layering slices of fresh mozzarella (don’t be shy!), then follow with juicy tomato rounds. Next, scatter a generous handful of fragrant basil leaves over the top. This is where the sandwich really starts to look— and smell— like something special.
Step 3: Drizzle and Season
Give a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze over the layered ingredients, letting it sink into all those nooks and crannies. A good grind of black pepper and a dusting of flaky salt are next. The balsamic glaze is the heart of this Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe, delivering that savory-sweet core.
Step 4: Assemble the Panini
Top each loaded slice with the remaining bread, keeping the olive oil side facing outwards. This creates a protective, golden shell once the panini hits the heat. Press down gently with your palm to hold everything in place and prepare for sandwich greatness.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your skillet or panini press over medium heat. If you’re using a skillet, melt a little unsalted butter and lay in your sandwiches, pressing them down lightly with a spatula or even another heavy pan. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side—watch as the bread turns golden and crispy, and the inside becomes deliciously melty.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the cheese is gloriously gooey and the bread sports a deep, crispy bronze, transfer to a cutting board. Slice those beauties in half and serve while still warm, so each bite oozes with mozzarella and drips with balsamic delight. You’ve just created the ultimate Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe!
How to Serve Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your panini with a final shower of chopped fresh basil or a light extra drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving. If you really want to make an impression, add a light pinch of flaky sea salt or freshly ground black pepper for even more flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This panini is absolutely delicious paired with a crisp, lemony arugula salad or a handful of kettle-cooked potato chips for crunch. For a more elegant touch, consider a bowl of tomato-basil soup or marinated olives to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe into small triangles or strips for a party platter, or tuck it into a lined basket with parchment for a retro, deli-style lunch. For a brunch gathering, serve mini paninis as part of a savory spread—people will race to grab them!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though this panini tends to disappear fast!), wrap them tightly in foil or an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep for a day, and while the bread may lose some crispness, the flavor remains terrific.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for this sandwich, as both fresh mozzarella and tomatoes tend to get watery and mushy after thawing. For best results, enjoy your Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe fresh, but if you want to prep ahead, assemble the components and store separately until ready to grill.
Reheating
To recapture the panini’s original texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, pressing down gently with a spatula, or pop it in a toaster oven until heated through and the bread is crisp again. Avoid the microwave, if possible, to prevent a soggy result.
FAQs
Can I make this panini without a panini press?
Absolutely! A basic skillet works beautifully—just press the sandwich down with another heavy pan or a spatula to mimic that signature pressed texture. You’ll still get plenty of golden crispness and melty cheese.
What is the best bread for this recipe?
Sourdough and ciabatta are both excellent, thanks to their sturdy structure and flavor. If you need to, use your favorite rustic loaf—just choose something that will hold together well on the grill and soak up those juices without getting soggy.
Is there a way to add protein and keep it vegetarian?
Certainly! Layer in grilled or roasted eggplant slices for added heft, or try marinated artichoke hearts for a savory boost. Both keep the Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe strictly vegetarian and ultra-satisfying.
Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze, or should I make my own?
Either option works well! Store-bought glazes are convenient and delicious, but if you want extra control or a flavor twist (like garlic or fig), gently simmer balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or sugar until thickened.
What’s the secret to a panini that doesn’t get soggy?
Brushing olive oil on the outside of the bread and grilling over medium, not high, heat helps achieve that crispy perfection. Letting your tomatoes drain on a paper towel for a minute before assembling can help, too.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe is one of those special meals you’ll come back to time and again for its flavor and pure comfort. Whether you prepare it for yourself or share with loved ones, you’re guaranteed crunchy, melty, and utterly unforgettable satisfaction. Give it a try soon—the ultimate sandwich awaits!
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Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of a Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme, a flavorful twist on the classic caprese salad, featuring gooey mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, all grilled to perfection between slices of crusty bread.
Ingredients
Balsamic Glazed Caprese Panini Supreme Recipe:
- 4 slices sourdough or ciabatta bread
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sandwiches: Brush one side of each bread slice with olive oil. On the unbrushed side of two slices, layer fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill the Paninis: Top with the remaining slices of bread, olive oil side facing out. Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to the pan if using a skillet. Grill the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Slice in half and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a thin layer of pesto on the inside of the bread.
- You can also use a flavored balsamic reduction, such as fig or garlic, for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
