Cuban Sliders Recipe
Introduction
Cuban sliders are a delightful twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, made small and perfect for parties or quick snacks. These mini sandwiches combine savory ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles, all layered inside soft Hawaiian rolls, then baked to melty perfection.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 4 ounces sliced ham
- 4 ounces pulled pork
- 4 ounces Swiss cheese
- 12 dill pickle slices
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350˚F.
- Step 2: Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally and place the bottoms cut side up on a baking sheet with edges.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and yellow mustard. Spread this mixture evenly over the cut side of the rolls.
- Step 4: Layer the sliced ham, pulled pork, and Swiss cheese over the bottoms of the rolls. Top each with one dill pickle slice, then place the tops of the rolls back on.
- Step 5: Melt the butter and stir in the garlic salt. Brush this butter mixture over the tops of the rolls.
- Step 6: Cover the sliders tightly with a sheet of aluminum foil, then place a second heavy baking sheet on top to press evenly.
- Step 7: Bake for 10–14 minutes until the sliders are heated through and the cheese melts. Remove the top baking sheet and foil, then cut the sliders apart and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra authenticity, add a thin layer of Cuban mojo sauce under the pork for a citrusy kick.
- Use pickles with a bit of crunch and tang to contrast the rich meats and cheese.
- Substitute the Swiss cheese with provolone or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- To make ahead, assemble the sliders and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 6 hours before baking.
Storage
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350˚F oven for about 8–10 minutes covered with foil to keep them moist and melty. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for Cuban sliders?
Yes, while Hawaiian rolls provide a soft, slightly sweet contrast, you can use small sandwich rolls or slider buns that hold up well to moist fillings.
Is pulled pork necessary, or can I just use ham?
The pulled pork adds richness and texture, but you can make a simpler version with just ham and cheese if preferred. Adding some mustard or a pickle helps add flavor balance.
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Cuban Sliders Recipe
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Description
These Cuban Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or meal featuring savory ham, tender pulled pork, Swiss cheese, and tangy dill pickles layered on soft Hawaiian rolls. Brushed with a garlic butter spread and baked to warm, gooey perfection, they make a perfect party snack or quick dinner option that captures the flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich in slider form.
Ingredients
Slider Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 4 ounces sliced ham
- 4 ounces pulled pork
- 4 ounces Swiss cheese
- 12 dill pickle slices
Spread and Topping
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) to prepare for baking the sliders evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, separating the tops from the bottoms. Arrange the bottom halves cut side up on a baking sheet with edges to catch any drips.
- Make the spread: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and yellow mustard until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the cut side of the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Assemble sliders: Layer the ham slices evenly over the spread, then add the pulled pork on top, followed by the Swiss cheese. Place one dill pickle slice on each slider. Finally, cover each slider with the top half of the roll.
- Prepare garlic butter: Melt the butter in a small bowl and stir in the garlic salt. Use a brush to apply the garlic butter mixture evenly over the tops of all the rolls.
- Cover and weigh down: Cover the assembled sliders with a sheet of aluminum foil to prevent mess and moisture escape. Then place a second heavy baking sheet on top to press the sliders down slightly, ensuring better heat distribution and melting.
- Bake sliders: Bake the sliders in the preheated oven for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the cheeses have melted and the sliders are heated through.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven, carefully take off the top baking sheet and foil, then cut the sliders apart. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy their melty, flavorful goodness.
Notes
- You can substitute pulled pork with roast pork if preferred.
- If Swiss cheese is unavailable, provolone or mozzarella are good alternatives.
- To add extra flavor, consider brushing a little mustard on the tops of the rolls before baking.
- For a spicier twist, add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftover sliders can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cuban
Keywords: Cuban sliders, Hawaiian rolls, pulled pork sliders, ham and cheese sliders, party appetizers, baked sliders
