Starbucks Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini (Copycat)

Introduction

Homemade Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini brings the irresistible flavors of the classic Starbucks version straight to your kitchen. The combination of creamy mozzarella, juicy roasted tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all sandwiched between crispy, golden-brown bread, makes for a savory, satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, this panini captures all the deliciousness you crave, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack.

The Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini is not only easy to make but also highly customizable. You can use fresh or store-bought roasted tomatoes, swap out the mozzarella for another cheese like provolone, or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you’re grilling it in a panini press or on the stovetop, the result is always crispy, melty, and packed with bold, comforting flavors.

This panini makes for a wonderful, meatless option, full of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Serve it with a side of mixed greens, a cup of soup, or enjoy it on its own—it’s guaranteed to be a hit every time!

Perfect for:

A comforting lunch or dinner
A quick meal for busy days
Enjoying a café-style sandwich at home
A delicious vegetarian option

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this Starbucks Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini (Copycat):

Classic and Savory: The combination of fresh mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, and basil is timeless and always hits the spot.
Easy and Quick: You don’t need a panini press to enjoy this flavorful sandwich – a skillet will work perfectly!
Vegetarian-Friendly: Perfect for vegetarians, this panini offers all the flavor and satisfaction without meat.
Customizable: You can add extra ingredients like balsamic glaze or pesto to take it to the next level.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals from fresh vegetables

Ingredients

For the Panini:

2 slices of sourdough bread (or ciabatta or any preferred bread)
1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/2 cup roasted tomatoes (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing the bread)
2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, torn
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins (for extra flavor):

1 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
1 tbsp pesto (optional for added flavor)
1/4 tsp garlic powder (for a hint of garlic flavor)
1-2 tsp red onion (thinly sliced, optional for extra bite)

Ingredient Highlights

Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the panini.
Roasted Tomatoes: Roasted tomatoes bring out their natural sweetness, making them the perfect complement to the mozzarella.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is essential for the panini’s bright, aromatic flavor, adding a herbaceous kick to each bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Panini:

Prepare the Ingredients:
Slice the fresh mozzarella and prepare the roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. If you’re using store-bought roasted tomatoes, ensure they’re well-drained. Optionally, slice the red onion thinly.
Assemble the Panini:
Lay out your slices of bread on a flat surface. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on one side of each slice of bread. On the non-oiled side, layer the mozzarella slices, roasted tomatoes, basil leaves, and optional red onion.
Season:
Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on the filling for added flavor.
Close the Sandwich:
Place the second slice of bread on top to close the sandwich, with the oiled side facing outward.

Grill the Panini:

Grill in a Skillet:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the assembled panini in the skillet. Press it down gently with a spatula to ensure even grilling. Grill for 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden and crispy.
Flip and Grill:
Carefully flip the sandwich over and grill the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until both sides are crispy and the mozzarella has melted.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve:
Once the panini is golden and the cheese is melted, remove it from the skillet. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze or spread a little pesto on top for extra flavor. Slice it in half and serve warm.

How to Serve

Serve this Starbucks Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini (Copycat) with:

A side of mixed greens or a simple salad with vinaigrette
Crispy potato chips or sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal
A cup of tomato soup for the ultimate comforting combo

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella (the ball kind, not pre-shredded) for a creamier, meltier texture that mimics the panini you love at Starbucks.
Roast the Tomatoes Yourself: Slice your tomatoes, drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven at 375°F for about 20 minutes for an enhanced, deeper flavor.
Add a Touch of Pesto: Spread a thin layer of pesto on the bread before adding the cheese and tomatoes to bring a fresh, herby flavor to your panini.
Grill on Medium Heat: Avoid pressing the panini too hard, as it can squeeze out the filling. Grill it on medium heat to achieve a golden, crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.
Use Sourdough or Ciabatta Bread: Choose hearty bread like sourdough or ciabatta for that signature crunch and to hold up well against the juicy tomatoes and melting cheese.
Balance with Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil leaves after grilling for a burst of freshness that complements the roasted tomato and mozzarella perfectly.
Brush Bread with Garlic Butter: For extra flavor, brush the outside of the bread with a bit of garlic butter before grilling to add a savory, rich taste.
Season Tomatoes with Balsamic Vinegar: Before roasting, drizzle your tomatoes with a little balsamic vinegar to add a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy mozzarella.
Use a Panini Press: If you have a panini press, it’s the best tool for an evenly toasted and crisp sandwich, but a stovetop skillet with a heavy lid or a weight can work as a great alternative.
Keep the Panini Warm: After grilling, let the panini rest for a few minutes to ensure the cheese sets and doesn’t spill out when you cut into it.

Recipe Variations

Pesto Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Add a generous spread of basil pesto to the inside of the bread before adding the roasted tomatoes and mozzarella. This adds a herby, garlicky twist.
Balsamic Glazed Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Drizzle balsamic reduction on the tomatoes or over the finished sandwich for a tangy, sweet flavor profile that complements the creamy mozzarella.
Spicy Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Add a layer of sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the panini before grilling for a spicy kick that contrasts with the mild mozzarella and tomatoes.
Avocado Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Layer in creamy, sliced avocado for extra richness and a fresh contrast to the roasted tomatoes and mozzarella.
Smoked Turkey Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Add thin slices of smoked turkey to the sandwich for a protein-packed variation with a smoky flavor that pairs well with the mozzarella.
Pesto Chicken Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Add grilled chicken marinated in pesto sauce to elevate the panini with extra protein and a burst of flavor.
Caramelized Onion Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Top the roasted tomatoes with a handful of caramelized onions to add sweetness and complexity to the sandwich.
Spinach & Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Add fresh spinach or arugula to the sandwich for a healthy, leafy layer that adds crunch and peppery flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomato Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Use sun-dried tomatoes in addition to the roasted tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor, perfect for those who love rich, concentrated tomato tastes.
Bacon Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini: Add crispy bacon strips for a savory, salty contrast that enhances the overall flavor of the panini.nini.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the panini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the skillet to restore its crispiness.
Freezing: This panini is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, as it may affect the texture when reheated.

Special Equipment

Skillet or Panini Press: A skillet will work perfectly, or you can use a panini press for an extra crispy finish.
Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the mozzarella and any additional veggies you may want to add.
Spatula: To press and flip the panini during grilling.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute fresh mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Can I use a different bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough or ciabatta is ideal for its texture and flavor, you can use any bread that holds up well to grilling.
Can I add meat to this panini?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken, turkey, or prosciutto for an extra protein boost.
How do I make the tomatoes roasted?
You can roast fresh tomatoes by halving them, drizzling with olive oil, and roasting at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until soft and slightly caramelized.
Can I prepare this sandwich in advance?
While it’s best to grill the panini fresh, you can prepare the fillings ahead of time and assemble the sandwich just before grilling.

Conclusion

Starbucks Roasted Tomato Mozzarella Panini Copycat is the perfect way to bring the cozy, comforting flavors of your favorite café right into your kitchen! This easy-to-make panini features creamy, melted mozzarella cheese, sweet roasted tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, all tucked inside crispy, golden-brown bread. It’s the ideal meal for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack.

To make this panini, start by roasting fresh tomatoes until they’re tender and bursting with flavor. Layer them with creamy mozzarella, a handful of fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil between two slices of your favorite bread (ciabatta or sourdough work great). Grill it to perfection until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy and golden. The result is a delicious, flavorful sandwich that’s sure to impress.

Pair it with a side salad or soup, and you’ll have a well-rounded, comforting meal that’s just as good (if not better!) than the one from Starbucks. Enjoy the magic of this savory panini right at home!