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Meatball Panini

A toasted sandwich loaded with sliced meatballs, warm marinara sauce, fresh basil, and gooey provolone melted between crispy ciabatta.

22 minEasyServes 2650 cal/serving

Italian-AmericanLunchStovetopStandardHigh ProteinNut-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 8 cooked beef meatballs, halved
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 ciabatta rolls, halved
  • 4 slices provolone cheese, sliced
  • 8 leaves fresh basil, torn
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat 1/2 cup marinara sauce in a small skillet over medium heat, add 8 halved cooked beef meatballs, and simmer until warmed through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

  2. 2

    Brush the outer sides of 2 halved ciabatta rolls with 2 tbsp olive oil.

  3. 3

    Layer 4 slices sliced provolone cheese, warmed cooked beef meatballs, extra marinara sauce, and 8 leaves torn fresh basil inside the rolls.

  4. 4

    Place sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, press down with a heavy pan, and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until toasted and melted.

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Questions

What is Meatball Panini?

A toasted sandwich loaded with sliced meatballs, warm marinara sauce, fresh basil, and gooey provolone melted between crispy ciabatta. This reference files it under Italian-American lunch: made on the stovetop, rated easy and about 22 minutes start to finish.

What internal temperature should Meatball Panini reach?

For Meatball Panini, the target internal temperature is 165 F (about 75 C), given in step 1. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

Can I make Meatball Panini dairy-free?

Yes. The dairy in Meatball Panini is 4 slices provolone cheese, sliced. Swap the cheese for a plant-based melting cheese (expect a milder flavor). The richness shifts slightly, but the method does not change.

Can I make Meatball Panini gluten-free?

Yes. The gluten in Meatball Panini is 2 ciabatta rolls, halved. Swap the bread or crumbs for a gluten-free loaf or gluten-free panko. Everything else proceeds as written.

How much protein is in Meatball Panini?

One serving (the recipe makes 2) has 32 g of protein in about 650 calories, alongside 54 g carbohydrate and 32 g fat, plus 4 g fiber and 1150 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list. More like it: the high-protein lunch collection.

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