If you have a craving for something packed with bold flavors, melty cheese, tangy pickles, and tender slow-cooked pork, then this Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe is an absolute must-try. This iconic Miami staple brings together crispy Cuban bread, savory ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy mustard-mayo spread that perfectly complements the pork’s rich smokiness. Every bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes that feels like a warm, comforting hug. Whether you’re serving it up for lunch, dinner, or sharing with friends, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role in creating that classic harmony of flavor, texture, and color. With just a handful of staples, you’ll be able to build a sandwich that’s both authentic and irresistible.
- Yellow mustard: Brings tang and a slight bite that cuts through the richness of the pork and cheese.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the mustard spread, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Cuban bread (about 10 ounces): The essential foundation with its crusty exterior and soft, fluffy interior, ideal for crisping up.
- Butter (softened): Ensures a golden, crispy crust when grilled to perfection.
- Slow Cooker Cuban pork (shredded and lightly crisped): Tender, flavorful pork that forms this sandwich’s delicious heart.
- Deli ham (sliced): Adds a smoky and salty contrast—choose your favorite variety like black forest or honey ham.
- Dill pickle chips: Provide a refreshing crunch and vinegar punch that brightens each bite.
- Swiss cheese: Melts wonderfully to create a gooey texture that pulls the sandwich together.
How to Make Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mustard-Mayo Spread
Start by mixing yellow mustard and mayonnaise in a small bowl. This simple but flavorful spread adds creaminess and tanginess, which perfectly complements the rich pork and cheese layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Cuban Bread
Trim the ends of your Cuban bread loaf to create straight edges, then cut it into four sandwich-sized portions. Slice each piece horizontally and spread softened butter on the outside of each half. Flip the bread over and generously apply the mustard-mayo mixture on the cut sides. This double layer of flavor and butter ensures a crispy, golden crust and moist interior.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Working with two sandwiches at a time makes it easier to layer evenly. Spread half of the shredded, lightly crisped Cuban pork onto the bottom bread halves, forming an even layer. Add one or two slices of ham, then top with 4 to 5 dill pickle chips for that signature tang. Finally, place two slices of Swiss cheese, offsetting them to cover the filling. Complete each sandwich by placing the top bread halves over the filling with the buttered side facing out.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan, then press down with a second heavy skillet or a weighted pan to mimic a sandwich press. Cooking each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crisp seals all those flavors inside. This step creates the irresistible crunch and melty interior that define the Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe.
Step 5: Keep Warm and Serve
As you finish grilling each batch, keep the sandwiches warm on a foil-lined baking sheet in a 200 degree F oven until ready to serve. This way, everyone enjoys their Cubano hot and melty without losing any of that crispy crust.
How to Serve Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe
Garnishes
A few simple garnishes elevate your Cuban sandwich to the next level. Add extra dill pickle chips on the side for added zest, or serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. A light drizzle of extra mustard can also enhance the tangy flavor for those who want a bit more kick.
Side Dishes
This Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe pairs beautifully with classic side dishes that enhance its hearty flavors. Try serving it alongside crispy plantain chips, black beans and rice, or a fresh citrusy salad to balance out the richness. A cold, crisp beer or a refreshing mojito perfectly complements the savory, smoky profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Slice the sandwich diagonally to showcase the melted cheese and vibrant fillings. Serve on a large wooden board with small bowls of mustard and pickles for an interactive experience. For a twist, consider making mini sliders for a party-friendly version of this Cuban classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bread might lose some of its crispness, but reheating will bring back much of its original charm.
Freezing
Because the Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, freezing is not the ideal option. However, you can freeze the cooked pork separately for up to 3 months, making future sandwiches quicker to assemble and cook.
Reheating
To reheat your leftovers, use a skillet over medium heat and press the sandwich under a heavy pan until heated through and the bread crisps up again. Avoid microwaving as it may result in soggier bread and less melty cheese.
FAQs
What makes a sandwich a true Cuban Sandwich (Cubano)?
A true Cuban Sandwich is all about the balance of fluffy Cuban bread, slow-cooked pork, ham, Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and a mustard-mayo spread, pressed and grilled until crispy and melty. Each component is essential to that authentic flavor and texture.
Can I substitute Cuban bread if I can’t find it?
While Cuban bread is traditional and ideal, you can use a soft French or Italian bread as a substitute. Just try to find a bread with a soft interior and crusty outside to mimic the original as closely as possible.
Is it okay to make this sandwich vegetarian?
You can certainly get creative! Though the Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe is meat-focused, swapping the pork and ham with marinated mushrooms or smoked tofu can provide a delicious vegetarian twist.
How can I make the pork filling ahead of time?
Slow cooker Cuban pork can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. When ready to assemble the sandwich, crisp it lightly in a pan to bring back texture and warmth before layering on the bread.
How long does it take to make a Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe?
The assembly and grilling process takes about 30 minutes, especially if you have pre-cooked pork ready. It’s a quick but satisfying meal to prepare any day of the week.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to dive into a sandwich that’s rich with history, flavor, and an unbeatable crunch, this Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe is your perfect go-to. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bring a taste of Miami’s beloved classic right into your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!
Print
Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cuban
Description
This Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) is a flavorful and iconic Cuban-American classic offering a perfect balance of slow-cooked pork, savory ham, Swiss cheese, tangy dill pickles, and a mustard-mayo spread all pressed in buttery Cuban bread. Cooked on a skillet with a heavy weight for that perfect crispy crust and melty cheese, this sandwich is ready in about 30 minutes and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
Spread
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
Bread and Butter
- 1 loaf Cuban bread (about 10 ounces), cut into 4 sandwich portions
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
Filling
- 2 to 2½ cups Slow Cooker Cuban Pork (shredded and lightly crisped)
- 4 slices deli ham (black forest, honey, smoked, or your favorite variety)
- 16 to 20 dill pickle chips (4 to 5 per sandwich)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the spread: In a small bowl, combine the yellow mustard and mayonnaise thoroughly, then set aside. This will add a tangy and creamy layer to your sandwich.
- Prepare the bread: Trim the ends of the Cuban bread to get straight edges. Slice the loaf into 4 equal sandwich portions. Split each sandwich piece horizontally to create top and bottom halves. Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened butter on the outside of each half and then flip them butter-side down. On the cut sides, spread about 1 tablespoon of the mustard-mayo mixture evenly.
- Assemble sandwiches: Work with two sandwiches at a time. Divide half of the shredded Cuban pork evenly among the bottom halves of the bread, spreading it into an even layer. Layer 1 or 2 slices of deli ham on top of the pork, followed by 4 to 5 dill pickle chips and 2 slices of Swiss cheese per sandwich. Adjust placement to fit the bread. Place the top halves of the bread over the fillings with the buttered sides facing out. Repeat for the remaining two sandwiches.
- Cook the sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place the sandwiches in the hot skillet. Use a second heavy skillet or cast iron pan to press down on the sandwiches, weighing them down for a proper press. Cook until the bread is nicely browned and the cheese melts, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Keep warm and serve: Transfer cooked sandwiches to a foil-lined baking sheet and place in a 200°F oven to keep warm while preparing remaining sandwiches. Serve hot for a delicious Cuban sandwich experience.
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet as a weight helps achieve the authentic pressed effect and crispy crust.
- Slow cooker pork can be prepared a day ahead for convenience and better flavor absorption.
- Adjust the amount of pickles and mustard-mayo spread to your taste preference.
- Cuban bread is essential for authenticity but can be substituted with French or Italian bread if unavailable.
- If you want extra crispiness, lightly toast the bread before assembling.
