How to Use the Sear & Press Grill for Perfect Paninis and More
By Breville | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Návody a postupy
Learn how to use the Breville Sear & Press Grill for crispy paninis, juicy burgers, and seared steaks. Follow these step-by-step tips for best results every time.
Quick Answer
Start with the reversible ceramic griddle plate for paninis, then switch to flat plates for burgers or steaks. The open BBQ mode doubles your cooking surface for larger meals.
Why the Sear & Press Grill Works for Multiple Foods
The Sear & Press Grill's reversible plates let you switch between a ceramic griddle for pressed sandwiches and a flat surface for burgers or steaks. This flexibility means one appliance replaces several countertop gadgets.
The open BBQ mode is a standout feature: it hinges the top plate flat so you get double the cooking area. Use it when you need to cook for a crowd or sear multiple steaks at once.
Choosing the Right Plate for Your Food
The included ceramic griddle plate works best for paninis and waffles (waffle plates sold separately). Its non-stick surface helps achieve those golden grill marks without sticking.
For burgers, steaks, or eggs, flip to the flat plate. The flat surface gives even contact and better searing. If you're cooking something delicate like fish or vegetables, the flat plate also prevents the food from falling through grates.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Sear & Press Grill
- Preheat the Grill: Plug in the grill and close the lid. Turn the temperature dial to your desired heat (medium-high for paninis, high for steaks). Wait for the ready indicator light—usually 3–5 minutes. A common mistake is starting too early; the plates need full heat for even cooking. Check the indicator light, not the clock, to know when it's ready.
- Prepare Your Food: For paninis, butter the outside of the bread and fill with ingredients that are not too wet (e.g., roasted vegetables, cheese, sliced meat). For steaks or burgers, pat dry with paper towels and season generously. A common mistake is overfilling: too much filling makes the sandwich soggy or causes the filling to spill out. Less is more—aim for a thin, even layer of fillings.
- Select the Cooking Mode: For paninis, keep the lid closed (press mode). For burgers or steaks, you can either close the lid for even contact or open the lid fully to use the open BBQ mode. To open, slide the hinge lock forward and lift the top plate until it lies flat. A common mistake is forgetting to lock the hinge in open mode, which can cause the top plate to fall back down. Use open BBQ mode when you need double the cooking surface for large batches.
- Cook and Monitor: Place food on the hot plate. For paninis, close the lid and press gently for 3–4 minutes until golden and cheese melts. For steaks, cook 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust based on thickness). A common mistake is pressing too hard on paninis, which squeezes out the filling. Let the weight of the lid do the work. Resist the urge to press down—the lid's weight is enough.
- Clean After Each Use: Unplug and let plates cool slightly. Wipe with a damp cloth or non-abrasive sponge. For stuck-on food, use a plastic scraper. The ceramic griddle plate is PFOA-free and easy to clean. A common mistake is using metal utensils or abrasive cleaners, which can scratch the non-stick surface. Always use silicone or wooden utensils to protect the plates.
Product Facts
- the Sear & Press™ Grill: The Sear & Press Grill has reversible and ceramic griddle, flat and waffle plates (waffle plates sold separately). You can switch between a griddle for pressed sandwiches and a flat plate for searing meat, so one appliance covers multiple cooking styles.
the Sear & Press™ Grill
