Air Fryer Panini
Ready in about 15 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
A pressed Italian-style sandwich with mozzarella, tomato and pesto, toasted until crisp with melty stripes of cheese. No panini press needed, just the air fryer and a rack to press it flat.
Ingredients
- 1 ciabatta loaf, halved lengthways
- 125 g mozzarella, sliced
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 3 tbsp basil pesto
- Handful rocket
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Method
- 1Spread pesto over the cut sides of the ciabatta.
- 2Layer mozzarella, tomato and rocket, then close the sandwich.
- 3Brush the outside with olive oil.
- 4Preheat the air fryer to 180°C/360°F.
- 5Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway and pressing with a rack, until crisp and the cheese melts.
- 6Slice and serve warm.
Tips for the best results
- A small trivet or rack on top mimics a panini press.
- Pat the tomato dry to keep the bread from going soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer panini?+
Cook at 180°C / 360°F for 6-8 min, flip halfway.