The Best Cuban Sandwich Recipe You’ll Love

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Cuban Sandwich is a delightful treat that transports you straight to the heart of Cuba with every bite. This crispy, savory sandwich is layered with delicious roast pork, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, zesty pickles, and a tangy mustard spread, all embraced by perfectly pressed Cuban bread. It’s a mouthwatering experience, combining flavors and textures that make this sandwich a beloved staple in Cuban food culture. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a satisfying meal at home, learning how to make a Cuban sandwich is a culinary adventure you don’t want to miss.

Why You’ll Love This Cuban Sandwich

This Cuban sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

  • It’s packed with bold flavors that dance on your palate.
  • Perfect for lunch or dinner, making it versatile.
  • Easy Cuban sandwich recipe that anyone can master.
  • Combines the rich traditions of Cuban cuisine.
  • Can be customized with various ingredients for your taste.
  • It’s a fantastic way to use leftover roast pork.

With its unique blend of textures and tastes, this is the best Cuban sandwich recipe you’ll ever try, and it’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients for Cuban Sandwich

Gather these items:

  • 1 loaf Cuban bread, sliced lengthwise (or French/Italian bread)
  • 4 oz (115 g) sliced roast pork
  • 4 oz (115 g) sliced ham
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • 6–8 dill pickle slices
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon softened butter (for grilling)

How to Make Cuban Sandwich Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Slice bread lengthwise and spread mustard on both cut sides.
  2. Step 2: On the bottom half, layer Swiss cheese, ham, roast pork, and pickles. Top with remaining bread.
  3. Step 3: Lightly butter the outside of the sandwich.
  4. Step 4: Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Step 5: Place sandwich in skillet, press with a heavy pan or press, and grill 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
  6. Step 6: Remove, rest 1 minute, then slice diagonally.
  7. Step 7: Serve hot with extra pickles or mustard if desired.
The Best Cuban Sandwich Recipe You’ll Love - Cuban Sandwich - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cuban Sandwich

Keep these in mind:

  • Use good quality Cuban bread for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t skip on pressing the sandwich; it makes all the difference.
  • Feel free to experiment with different mustards or even add a layer of cheese for extra richness.

Best Ways to Serve Cuban Sandwich

Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

  • Pair it with a side of crispy plantain chips for a true Cuban experience.
  • Serve with a refreshing mojito to complement the flavors.
  • Consider a side of black bean soup for a hearty meal.

How to Store and Reheat Cuban Sandwich

If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy. This is a great way to meal prep and enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Sandwich

What’s the secret to perfect Cuban Sandwich?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients, especially the bread. Authentic Cuban bread is key to achieving that crispy exterior and soft interior that makes this sandwich stand out.

Can I make Cuban Sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and assemble the sandwich ahead of time. Just store them separately and grill them when you’re ready to enjoy for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cuban Sandwich?

Ensure your skillet is hot enough before grilling, and don’t overload the sandwich with too many fillings, which can cause it to become soggy.

Variations of Cuban Sandwich You Can Try

Feel free to mix things up with these variations:

  • Medianoche: A sweeter version made with egg bread instead of Cuban bread.
  • Vegetarian Cuban: Substitute the meats with grilled vegetables and extra cheese.
  • Spicy Cuban: Add jalapeños or spicy mustard for a kick.

Each variation offers a unique twist while still paying homage to the traditional Cuban flavors.

The Best Cuban Sandwich Recipe You’ll Love - Cuban Sandwich - additional detail

For more information about Cuban cuisine, check out our about page. If you’re interested in the history of Cuban sandwiches, you can read more on The Spruce Eats. Additionally, for tips on meal prepping, visit our privacy policy page.

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Cuban Sandwich

The Best Cuban Sandwich Recipe You’ll Love


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  • Author: layla
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

This Cuban Sandwich is crispy, savory, and packed with bold flavor. Layered with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed bread, it delivers the classic Cuban taste right at home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf Cuban bread, sliced lengthwise (or French/Italian bread)
  • 4 oz (115 g) sliced roast pork
  • 4 oz (115 g) sliced ham
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • 68 dill pickle slices
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon softened butter (for grilling)

Instructions

  1. Slice bread lengthwise and spread mustard on both cut sides.
  2. On the bottom half, layer Swiss cheese, ham, roast pork, and pickles. Top with remaining bread.
  3. Lightly butter the outside of the sandwich.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Place sandwich in skillet, press with a heavy pan or press, and grill 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
  6. Remove, rest 1 minute, then slice diagonally.
  7. Serve hot with extra pickles or mustard if desired.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 8 minutes
    • Category: Lunch
    • Method: Grilling
    • Cuisine: Cuban

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
    • Calories: 450
    • Sugar: 2 g
    • Sodium: 1200 mg
    • Fat: 22 g
    • Saturated Fat: 10 g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
    • Trans Fat: 0 g
    • Carbohydrates: 40 g
    • Fiber: 2 g
    • Protein: 25 g
    • Cholesterol: 70 mg

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