When it comes to delicious and satisfying sandwiches, few can rival the Cuban sandwich. A classic combination of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crispy bread has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of foodies around the world. But why settle for just one variation when you can have 20? From classic combinations to creative twists, we’ve got the ultimate guide to Cuban sandwich recipes that will take your taste buds on a tropical getaway.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the rich flavors and textures of Cuba’s beloved sandwiches, from the traditional to the innovative. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a show-stopping party appetizer, our collection of 20 delicious Cuban sandwich recipes has something for everyone. So sit back, get ready to taste the islands, and let the culinary adventure begin!
Classic Cuban Sandwich with Roast Pork and Ham
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this iconic sandwich, featuring tender roast pork, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, pickles, and a hint of mustard.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups roast pork, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons ham, thinly sliced
– 4 slices Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup yellow mustard
– 1/4 cup dill pickle slices
– 4 crusty Cuban bread rolls
– Mayonnaise or butter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Layer the roast pork, ham, and Swiss cheese on each bread roll.
3. Spread a layer of yellow mustard on top of the cheese.
4. Add 2-3 pickle slices on top of the mustard.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the top half of the bread roll on each sandwich.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately with mayonnaise or butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Cuban Sandwich with Swiss Cheese and Pickles
This classic Cubano sandwich gets a creamy twist with the addition of melted Swiss cheese and tangy pickles. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or regular white bread)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided
– 4 oz ham, thinly sliced
– 4 oz roasted pork, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup dill pickle slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of ham, pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles on each bread slice.
4. Place the sandwiches on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Mojo-Marinated Pork
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this mouthwatering sandwich, featuring tender mojo-marinated pork, crispy ham, melted Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all piled high on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/2 cup mojo marinade (see below)
– 4 Cuban-style bread rolls
– 4 slices ham
– 4 slices Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup pickle slices
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Mojo Marinade:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mojo marinade ingredients. Place pork shoulder in a large zip-top plastic bag; pour in marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Grill pork until caramelized, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mustard on bottom bun, layering ham, cheese, pickles, and grilled pork. Top with remaining bread.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Pulled Pork Cuban Sandwich with Mustard Sauce
A twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, this recipe combines tender pulled pork with tangy mustard sauce and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup yellow mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hoagie rolls
– Swiss cheese, sliced
– Pickle slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mustard, cilantro, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Place in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
4. Pour the mustard mixture over the pork. Cover with a lid or foil.
5. Roast for 6-8 hours or until tender.
6. Shred the pork with two forks.
7. Assemble sandwiches by spreading shredded pork onto hoagie rolls, topping with Swiss cheese and pickle slices.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Vegetarian Cuban Sandwich with Plant-Based Ham
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this vegetarian take on the iconic Cubano sandwich, featuring plant-based ham. This satisfying and easy-to-make recipe combines the richness of roasted vegetables with the creaminess of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole wheat bread
– 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plant-based ham (such as Field Roast or Upton’s Naturals), sliced
– 1/2 cup roasted red bell peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions
– 1/4 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise on each bread slice, followed by plant-based ham, roasted red bell peppers, caramelized onions, and Swiss cheese.
3. Top with cilantro and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Spicy Jalapeño Mayo
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba in this classic sandwich recipe elevated by a spicy kick from jalapeño mayo. Savor the combination of crispy ham, melted cheese, and tangy pickles on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread
– 4 oz ham
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup pickle slices
– 1/4 cup spicy jalapeño mayo (see below)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices for garnish (optional)
Spicy Jalapeño Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 tsp diced jalapeño peppers
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the bread slices on both sides.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing ham, Swiss cheese, and pickle slices on two bread slices each.
4. Spread spicy jalapeño mayo on the remaining two bread slices.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Mini Cuban Sliders for Party Appetizers
Mini Cuban Sliders Recipe for Party Appetizers
Experience the flavor of Cuba in these bite-sized sliders, perfect for your next party or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 small hamburger buns (or slider buns)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
– Sour cream or yogurt, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a small patty.
4. Place patties on baking sheets lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Assemble sliders by spreading a small amount of cheese on each bun, followed by a cooked patty, and topping with cilantro.
6. Serve immediately and offer sour cream or yogurt as an optional accompaniment.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Crispy Panini Press
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this pressed sandwich, featuring ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or similar)
– 2 oz ham
– 2 oz roasted pork (such as mojo-marinated pork shoulder)
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup dill pickle slices
– 1 tbsp yellow mustard
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for the panini press
Instructions:
1. Preheat the panini press to medium-high heat.
2. Lay two slices of Cuban bread on a flat surface. Top each slice with a slice of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and pickle slices.
3. Spread a small amount of yellow mustard on top of the pickles.
4. Place the sandwiches in the preheated panini press and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and crispy.
5. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Slow-Cooker Cuban Sandwich with Shredded Pork
A flavorful twist on the classic Cubano sandwich, this slow-cooker recipe yields tender shredded pork and crispy bread. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 crusty Cuban bread rolls (or regular sandwich buns)
– Pickle slices, Swiss cheese, and mustard for serving
Instructions:
1. Season the pork with salt, pepper, garlic, oregano, and cumin.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the pork, orange juice, and lime juice.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with juices.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spooning shredded pork onto bread rolls, followed by pickle slices, Swiss cheese, and a dollop of mustard.
Cook Time: 4-10 hours (low) or 2-6 hours (high)
Cuban Sandwich with Garlic Butter Toasted Bread
Cuban Sandwich with Garlic Butter Toasted Bread Recipe
Experience the flavors of Cuba with this mouthwatering sandwich recipe, featuring tender ham, roasted pork, melted Swiss cheese, and crispy garlic butter toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban-style bread
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 oz ham, thinly sliced
– 8 oz roasted pork, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice with the garlic butter mixture (see below).
3. Grill the bread slices for about 30 seconds on the buttered side, until lightly toasted.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing two slices of ham and two slices of roasted pork on each toasted bread slice.
5. Top with Swiss cheese and a few pickle slices, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Garlic Butter Mixture:
1. Mix 1/2 cup softened butter with 3 cloves of minced garlic until well combined.
2. Spread or pipe onto the bread slices before toasting.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of sandwiches being prepared at once.
Breakfast Cuban Sandwich with Scrambled Eggs
Start your day off right with this flavorful twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, featuring scrambled eggs and crispy ham.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or similar)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced ham
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: pickle slices, mustard, or mayo for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through. Set aside.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
5. Top with diced ham, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheese.
6. Place the remaining bread slices on top (buttered side up).
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Smoked Turkey and Gouda
A twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, this recipe adds a rich and creamy element with smoked turkey and melted Gouda cheese. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (Cuban or Italian)
– 2 oz smoked turkey breast
– 2 slices of Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup pickled mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 lettuce leaf
– 1 tomato slice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading pickled mustard on the unbuttered side of two slices, then topping with smoked turkey, Gouda cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
4. Place the other bread slices, buttered side up, on top to complete the sandwich.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Gluten-Free Cuban Sandwich on Almond Flour Bread
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this gluten-free twist on a classic sandwich. This recipe combines juicy ham, melted Swiss cheese, and crispy pickles on a bed of creamy mustard, all nestled between two slices of our delicious almond flour bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Gluten-Free Almond Flour Bread (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 oz ham, thinly sliced
– 2 slices Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup yellow mustard
– 1/4 cup dill pickle chips, thinly sliced
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the almond flour bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading yellow mustard on each slice of bread, followed by a few slices of ham, Swiss cheese, and pickle chips.
4. Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Avocado and Lime Crema
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this twist on a classic sandwich. The creamy avocado and tangy lime crema add a fresh and modern touch to this traditional favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 Cuban bread rolls
– 8 oz ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mustard on the bottom half of each roll, then layering ham, pork, cheese, pickles, and top halves of rolls.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mashed avocado, lime juice, and sour cream for the crema.
4. Spread a layer of crema on the top half of each sandwich.
5. Place sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Chorizo Cuban Sandwich with Pepper Jack
Elevate your sandwich game with this bold and flavorful fusion of Spanish and Latin American cuisine. Spicy chorizo, crispy bacon, melted pepper jack cheese, and fresh cilantro come together in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread
– 1/2 pound spicy chorizo, sliced
– 4 slices of pepper jack cheese
– 4 slices of crispy bacon
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Mayonnaise or mustard (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise or mustard on each slice of bread, if desired.
3. Add two slices of chorizo, one slice of bacon, and one slice of pepper jack cheese to each sandwich.
4. Top with chopped cilantro.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère
Experience the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and rich flavors in this Cuban-inspired sandwich, featuring caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or similar)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces ham, thinly sliced
– 8 ounces roasted pork or crocked pork, shredded
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 4 slices of Gruyère cheese
– Pickle slices and chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pan over medium-low heat. Add butter and cook onions for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mustard on each slice of bread, then layering ham, pork, and Gruyère cheese.
3. Place sandwiches under broiler for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with pickle slices and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Air Fryer Cuban Sandwich for Quick Meals
Experience the flavors of Cuba with this simple and speedy air fryer recipe. This classic sandwich is a staple in Cuban cuisine, featuring ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or Italian bread)
– 2 oz ham
– 2 oz roasted pork (such as mojo pork or slow-cooked pork shoulder)
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup dill pickle slices
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Cuban bread in half lengthwise.
3. Layer each bread half with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a dollop of mustard.
4. Place the sandwiches in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Pineapple Salsa Twist
Experience the perfect fusion of flavors and textures with this unique twist on the classic Cuban sandwich. Sweet and tangy pineapple salsa adds a delightful surprise to the tender ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread
– 4 oz. ham, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup pickle chips, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup pineapple salsa (recipe below)
– Mayonnaise or butter, for spreading
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter or spread mayonnaise on each bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by layering ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and pineapple salsa.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Open-Faced Cuban Sandwich with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your sandwich game with this Open-Faced Cuban Sandwich featuring creamy garlic aioli and crispy ham. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of baguette
– 1/2 pound roasted ham, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup garlic aioli (see below)
– 1/4 cup pickled red onions (see below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pickled Red Onions:
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Top each round with a slice of ham, a spoonful of garlic aioli, and a sprinkle of Swiss cheese.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with pickled red onions and fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ultimate Loaded Cuban Sandwich with Extra Pickles
A twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, this recipe adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch with pickle slices. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 crusty Cuban bread rolls (or similar)
– 8 oz ham
– 4 oz roasted pork
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1 cup sliced dill pickles
– 1/4 cup yellow mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Mayonnaise or spread of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the ham and pork into thin strips.
3. Butter each bread roll half on the outside.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading yellow mustard on one half, followed by slices of ham, pork, cheese, and pickles.
5. Top with the remaining bread roll half.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and traditions of Cuba through these 20 mouth-watering sandwich recipes. From classic combinations to innovative twists, this collection has something for every occasion. Enjoy roasted pork, ham, and Swiss cheese in a traditional Cuban sandwich, or try spicy variations with jalapeño mayo and chorizo. Mini sliders, slow-cooker options, and gluten-free alternatives ensure everyone can participate. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your lunch game, these recipes are sure to transport you to the vibrant streets of Havana.