Cuban Sliders Recipe

Prepare yourself for a flavor adventure with these irresistible Cuban Sliders—a mini-sandwich spin inspired by the beloved Cuban sandwich, baked until golden and melty for total comfort food bliss. Tender pulled pork, layers of savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, sharp pickles, and a tangy-sweet glaze come together on soft Hawaiian rolls for the ultimate party pleaser or family treat. These Cuban Sliders are everything you love about the classic, packed into easy-to-share bites that everyone will be raving about after just one taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for these Cuban Sliders might look simple, but each element packs big flavors, crunch, and color, making every bite downright memorable. Let’s take a closer look at how each component brings its own magic to the mix.

• Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls (12 count): These buttery, slightly sweet rolls are the perfect base, keeping everything together with a pillowy soft bite.
• Dijon-style mustard (3 tablespoons): Adds zesty warmth and that classic tangy kick essential for Cuban sandwiches.
• Worcestershire sauce (2 teaspoons): A splash of umami to deepen the sauce and enhance the overall savoriness.
• Thinly sliced deli ham (8 ounces): For meaty chew and an unmistakable salty taste that’s at the heart of a great Cuban.
• Cooked pulled pork (2-1/2 cups): Adds juicy, smoky richness—use leftovers or make your own for extra depth.
• Swiss cheese (12 slices): Melts beautifully and brings creamy melt with a nutty edge.
• Dill pickle chips (30, drained): Bright, tangy, and crunchy; these cut through the richness in the best way.
• Unsalted butter (8 tablespoons, divided): For a golden finish and to bind the topping mix.
• Dried minced garlic (1-1/2 teaspoons): Delivers a hint of robust garlic flavor in every bite.
• Dried minced onion (1-1/2 teaspoons): Lends a gentle sweetness and crunch to the butter topping.
• Poppy seeds (1-1/2 teaspoons): Adds a lovely nutty pop and upscale, bakery-style look.
• Flaky sea salt (3/4 teaspoon): Gives a crisp, salty burst that wakes up all the flavors.

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Get your oven nice and hot by setting it to 350°F. This ensures your Cuban Sliders will bake evenly, and all those layers will meld together perfectly. Go ahead and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light spritz of cooking spray so nothing sticks.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Unwrap your Hawaiian rolls, but don’t pull them apart—keep them connected. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice horizontally through all the rolls at once, like you’re making a giant sandwich. Lay the bottom half in your prepared baking dish, and set the top half aside for later.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of melted (but cooled) butter until smooth. This sauce not only brings a punch of flavor but also helps the sliders stay wonderfully moist. Spoon and spread half the sauce over the bottom half of the rolls and the rest on the cut side of the top half.

Step 4: Layer and Assemble

Now, build those layers! Start with half the Swiss cheese directly on top of your sauced bottom rolls—this helps shield the bread from the juicy fillings. Next, layer on all the ham, pile on the pulled pork, and distribute the pickle chips for that signature zing. Finish with the remaining Swiss cheese before pressing everything down gently to even it out. For melty, gooey bliss, slide the baking dish into the oven and bake these open-faced (just the bottoms, not the tops) for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Top and Butter Up

Carefully remove the baking dish after 10 minutes and place your reserved top buns (the ones already brushed with sauce) onto the layered fillings. In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining 5 tablespoons melted butter with the minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Give it a good stir. Using a pastry brush, generously brush this flavorful mixture over the tops and sides of the rolls—trust me, it’s what sets Cuban Sliders apart!

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake another 5 to 10 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is gloriously melted. Let your Cuban Sliders rest for 5 minutes out of the oven for easy, clean slicing. Grab a sharp knife, cut between the rolls, and serve them hot and gooey. Get ready for happy faces!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of extra poppy seeds or a flourish of chopped fresh parsley adds color and a simple, elegant touch. For a little extra Cuban flair, add more pickle chips or a thin slice of fresh jalapeño on top of each slider before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cuban Sliders with classic sidekicks like crisp plantain chips, crunchy coleslaw, or a light black bean salad. For something super simple, kettle chips and a fizzy lime soda make this fuss-free meal ultra-refreshing and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your Cuban Sliders at your next gathering by arranging them on a bright platter or wooden board. Stick mini skewers or decorative picks in each one for an easy grab-and-go party presentation. For a picnic or potluck, bundle sliders individually in parchment for a mess-free, stylish vibe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cuban Sliders are surprisingly resilient—just place any extras in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully and make an enviable lunch the next day!

Freezing

To keep Cuban Sliders on hand for later, assemble them up to the butter topping step, wrap tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen (add extra time) or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat Cuban Sliders in the oven at 325°F covered with foil for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible; it can turn those soft rolls a bit soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of Swiss?

Absolutely! Provolone or a mild cheddar both melt well and complement the flavors. Swiss is the classic choice, but feel free to make it your own.

What if I don’t have pulled pork on hand?

No worries—shredded rotisserie chicken or even sliced roast pork will work nicely. The key is juicy, flavorful protein to balance the ham.

Can I assemble Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sliders up to the butter topping, cover, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Add the butter topping and bake just before serving for the very best taste and texture.

Are these Cuban Sliders spicy?

Not at all—these are rich, tangy, and savory but mild enough for all ages. If you like heat, add a few pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix.

Can I make a smaller batch for a weeknight snack?

Definitely. Halve the recipe to fit a smaller baking dish, or just make as many as you need—the method stays the same, and leftover ingredients keep well.

Final Thoughts

These Cuban Sliders are pure joy, perfect for both weeknight dinners and party celebrations. If you love bold, crave-worthy flavors and easy sharing, give these a try! There’s nothing quite like watching a tray of golden, melty sliders disappear before your eyes—enjoy every delicious bite!

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