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
Scale
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.
