Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini: The Ultimate Fall Lunch Sandwich

When the crisp autumn air arrives, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

This Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini perfectly captures the essence of fall in a healthy, delicious sandwich. It’s the ideal choice for a cozy lunch that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Imagine the delightful combination of tart apples, sharp cheddar, and savory sourdough bread, all pressed to golden perfection. This recipe is designed for busy families and anyone looking for a quick, wholesome meal that celebrates the flavors of the season.

Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini

---

• Total Time: 18-20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini is a warm, comforting, and healthy sandwich perfect for a quick and easy fall meal. It combines tart apples, sharp cheddar, and savory sourdough bread, pressed to golden perfection. Ideal for busy families or anyone craving a delicious, seasonal lunch.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 slices sourdough bread

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

1 medium apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced

4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced or shredded

1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Start by thinly slicing your apple and cheddar cheese. Aim for slices that are uniform in thickness so they cook evenly. If using shredded cheese, ensure it’s evenly distributed.

2. Butter the bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This buttered side will be the exterior of your panini, ensuring a golden, crispy crust.

3. Assemble the first sandwich: Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface. If using, spread a very thin layer of Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of one slice.

4. Layer the fillings: On the mustard-coated slice (or one of the unbuttered slices), layer half of the cheddar cheese, followed by half of the apple slices. Top with the remaining half of the cheddar cheese. Place the other slice of bread, unbuttered side down, on top to complete the sandwich. Repeat for the second panini.

5. Preheat your panini press or skillet: If using a panini press, preheat it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a skillet, heat it over medium heat.

6. Cook the panini: Carefully place the assembled panini into the preheated panini press and close the lid, pressing down gently. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using a skillet, place the panini in the hot skillet, then place another heavy skillet or a foil-wrapped brick on top to press it down. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cheese is melted.

7. Serve immediately: Once cooked, carefully remove the panini from the press or skillet. Let it rest for a minute or two before slicing in half and serving warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Category: main dish
• Method: panini press
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 panini

Keywords: panini, sourdough, apple, cheddar, sandwich, fall, lunch, quick, easy, vegetarian

What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe

This Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini is a true weeknight hero or a delightful weekend lunch option. It’s perfect for busy parents who want to serve something nutritious and delicious without a lot of fuss, or for anyone craving a warm, comforting meal on a cool day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of flavors. The tang of sourdough bread pairs wonderfully with the sweet-tartness of the apple and the creamy, salty notes of cheddar cheese. It’s a healthy fall sandwich that feels indulgent but is packed with good-for-you ingredients. Serve it as a standalone meal, or alongside a simple soup or salad for a complete and satisfying autumn lunch.

Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress

Gathering your ingredients for this panini is straightforward, and many items might already be in your pantry or fridge. This recipe focuses on fresh, wholesome components that come together easily.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 1 medium apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

When selecting your ingredients, opt for a good quality sourdough bread; a sturdy loaf will hold up best to pressing. For the apple, a slightly tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp works wonderfully to balance the richness of the cheese. If you prefer a sweeter sandwich, a Fuji or Gala apple would also be delicious. Sharp cheddar is recommended for its robust flavor, but you can certainly experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, white cheddar, or even a mild provolone if you prefer. The Dijon mustard is optional but adds a lovely subtle tang that enhances the overall taste.

Time Needed From Start To Finish

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 8-10 minutes
• Total time: 18-20 minutes

How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues

Making this panini is incredibly simple, even for beginner cooks. Follow these steps for a perfectly golden and gooey sandwich every time.

1. Prepare your ingredients: Start by thinly slicing your apple and cheddar cheese. Aim for slices that are uniform in thickness so they cook evenly. If using shredded cheese, ensure it’s evenly distributed.
2. Butter the bread: Spread a thin layer of softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This buttered side will be the exterior of your panini, ensuring a golden, crispy crust.
3. Assemble the first sandwich: Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface. If using, spread a very thin layer of Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of one slice.
4. Layer the fillings: On the mustard-coated slice (or one of the unbuttered slices), layer half of the cheddar cheese, followed by half of the apple slices. Top with the remaining half of the cheddar cheese. Place the other slice of bread, unbuttered side down, on top to complete the sandwich. Repeat for the second panini.
5. Preheat your panini press or skillet: If using a panini press, preheat it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a skillet, heat it over medium heat.
6. Cook the panini: Carefully place the assembled panini into the preheated panini press and close the lid, pressing down gently. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using a skillet, place the panini in the hot skillet, then place another heavy skillet or a foil-wrapped brick on top to press it down. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately: Once cooked, carefully remove the panini from the press or skillet. Let it rest for a minute or two before slicing in half and serving warm.

Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life

This Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini is wonderfully versatile! For a kid-friendly twist, you can use a milder cheese like Colby Jack and thinly slice the apples very finely, or even grate them, so they are less noticeable for picky eaters. A touch of cinnamon sprinkled on the apples before cooking can also add a delightful sweetness that children often enjoy.

Consider adding a thin slice of cooked ham or turkey for a non-vegetarian option that still keeps the fall flavors. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a pinch of black pepper can elevate the savory notes. For a touch of sweetness, a very thin spread of fig jam or apple butter on one side of the bread before adding the cheese can be absolutely divine.

This panini is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side. A warm bowl of tomato soup or a light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing makes for a complete and satisfying meal. For a heartier lunch, serve it alongside a cup of butternut squash soup or a small portion of roasted sweet potatoes.

Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them

Even simple recipes can have small pitfalls. Here’s how to ensure your Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini turns out perfectly every time:

• Over-stuffing the sandwich: While it’s tempting to load up on cheese and apples, too much filling can make the panini difficult to press and lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
• Not buttering the bread properly: For that irresistible golden, crispy crust, make sure to butter the exterior of the bread evenly from edge to edge. Don’t skip this step!
• Using too high heat: Cooking the panini on heat that’s too high will burn the bread before the cheese has a chance to melt through. Medium heat is usually ideal for both panini presses and skillets. Be patient and let it cook slowly.
• Slicing the apples too thick: Thick apple slices won’t soften sufficiently during the short cooking time, leading to a crunchy texture that might not be what you’re looking for in a warm panini. Thin slices are key.
• Not letting it rest: Just like a grilled cheese, letting your panini rest for a minute or two after cooking allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing it from oozing out excessively when you slice it.

How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture

This Sourdough Apple Cheddar Panini is best enjoyed fresh off the press, when the bread is crispy and the cheese is wonderfully melted. However, if you have leftovers or want to do some prep work, here are some tips:

• Storing cooked panini: If you have a leftover cooked panini, allow it to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a toaster oven or a dry skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and the bread crisps up again. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the bread soggy.
• Making ahead (components): You can slice your apples and cheese ahead of time. Store sliced apples in a bowl of lightly salted water with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning, then pat them dry before assembly. Store sliced or shredded cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This way, when you’re ready to make your panini, assembly takes mere minutes.

Questions People Always Ask Before Making This Recipe

Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, while sourdough is recommended for its flavor and texture, you can use other sturdy breads like ciabatta, country white, or even a good quality whole wheat bread. Avoid very soft breads that might get too soggy.

What if I don’t have a panini press? No problem! You can easily make this in a regular skillet on the stovetop. Just place the assembled sandwich in a hot skillet over medium heat, then place a heavy object (like another skillet or a foil-wrapped brick) on top to press it down. Flip once and cook until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted.

Do I need to peel the apple? Peeling the apple is optional. The skin adds a bit of texture and extra fiber. If you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to peel it. Just make sure to slice it very thinly either way.

Can I add meat to this panini? Absolutely! Thinly sliced cooked ham, turkey, or even crispy bacon would be delicious additions. Add them along with the cheese and apples.

What kind of cheddar cheese works best?

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead? Yes—prep ahead, refrigerate, then serve when ready.
• How long do leftovers last? Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days for best texture.
• Can I adjust sweetness? Yes—add more or less sweetener to taste.
• Can I change the fruit? Yes—swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana.