Hot Honey Mozzarella Panini
This Spicy Honey Mozzarella Panini is the ultimate sweet-heat melt — creamy mozzarella, warm spinach, and a drizzle of spicy honey that takes every bite over the top. It’s quick, cheesy, and perfect for an easy lunch recipe. Recipe below!
Ingredients:
- 4 slices ciabatta, sourdough, or country bread
- 6–8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced thick
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp butter
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- 2–3 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional but recommended)
Spicy Honey
- 1 ½ tbsp honey
- ¼–½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Mix the honey, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika to make the spicy honey. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a small skillet. Add garlic and cook 20–30 seconds. Add spinach, season lightly, and cook until just barely wilted.
- Layer mozzarella onto the bread, add the warm spinach, and drizzle a little spicy honey inside the sandwich. (include sun-dried tomatoes if using)
- Butter the outsides of the bread and close the panini.
- Cook in a panini press or skillet over medium heat until golden and melty (about 3–5 minutes).
- Drizzle the remaining spicy honey on top before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- A pinch of flaky salt on top makes the sweet-heat flavor pop.
- Cover the skillet for the last minute if the mozzarella needs help melting.
- Add roasted red peppers, turkey, or crispy prosciutto for easy variations.
- This makes a great fast lunch recipe — it reheats well in an air fryer for a crispy finish.
Want an easy and delicious dessert to make with this dinner? Try this viral Magnolia Bakery Banana Pudding Copy Cat recipe – it’s creamy, no-bake and ALWAYS a hit!
