The Le Creuset Panini Press L2053-26 is a heavy ribbed cast-iron plate that is used in conjunction with the skillet grill to produce top and bottom searing at the same time. The 9-inch, square-shaped press is heated, then placed atop the sandwiches in the skillet grill. The weight of the press, combined with the excellent heat retention of cast iron, crisps the bread, leaving characteristic sear marks across the sandwich.

The Panini press has a raised black phenolic knob, which has a high heat resistance and lets you lift the press without scalding your knuckles. Because the press itself gets quite hot, you should wear oven mitts. The skillet and press together provide an extremely efficient heat source that penetrates the food quickly, without drying it out. For added versatility, the skillet grill and Panini press can be used to sear steak, chicken, or fish to enjoy on their own. You can also toast a single slice of bread to make Bruschetta.

We recommend the press, as well as the skillet, be preheated by placing it on a direct heat source; you should use either a gas or electric stovetop. Flat, induction, and glass cooktops may not provide the necessary heat.