Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders are a delightful twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, transforming all those bold and savory flavors into bite-sized perfection. Imagine sweet Hawaiian rolls filled with layers of delectable fillings like tender pulled pork, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all topped off with a tangy mustard sauce and a crispy, buttery finish. Whether you’re whipping these up for a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner, they’re an absolute crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moment with your loved ones. Let’s dive into this fun and easy recipe that promises to deliver big on flavor and satisfaction!

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Cuban sliders lies in how the traditional Cuban sandwich elements come together perfectly in slider form. With the savory pulled pork, sweet ham, and creamy Swiss cheese wrapped in fluffy Hawaiian rolls, every bite packs an explosion of flavor. The sweet rolls create a delightful contrast that enhances the savory fillings, bringing balance to every mouthful. Plus, baking the sliders develops a crispy, buttery top while keeping all that deliciousness warm and melty inside. It’s simply the perfect blend of textures and tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Cuban Sliders

You’ll love these Cuban sliders not only for their incredible taste but also for their simplicity. They’re quick and easy to assemble, making them the ideal choice for game day or casual gatherings. Each slider is loaded with layers of flavor—think ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles. Thanks to their bite-sized portions, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, so everyone can grab a couple without feeling guilty. Every bite feels like a small celebration!

Ingredients

Ready to get started? Here’s what you need to make these scrumptious Cuban sliders:

• 12 count Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
• 3 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 8 ounces thinly sliced deli ham
• 2-1/2 cups cooked pulled pork
• 12 slices Swiss cheese
• 30 dill pickle chips, drained
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1-1/2 teaspoons dried minced garlic
• 1-1/2 teaspoons dried minced onion
• 1-1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 3/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Assembling Cuban Sliders

Preheat The Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get a 9×13-inch baking dish ready with a coat of cooking spray. This step helps the sliders come out perfectly golden.

Prepare The Rolls

Next, let’s carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally. Keep them connected—this will make assembling a breeze. Place the bottom half in your prepared baking dish, setting the top half aside for later.

Mix The Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix until smooth to create the flavor-packed sauce for our sliders.

Sauce The Bottom

Spread half of this zesty mixture over the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish. Then, take the remaining sauce and gently coat the cut side of the top half of the rolls.

Layer The Fillings

It’s time to build our sliders! Start by placing half of the Swiss cheese over the bottom rolls. Next, add a delicious layer of ham, followed by the pulled pork and pickles. Finish by layering with the remaining Swiss cheese, and gently press down to create an even layer.

Bake The Sliders

Now, pop the baking dish in the oven and bake the assembled sliders for 10 minutes without the top rolls. This helps the flavor meld together beautifully.

Prepare The Butter Mixture

While the sliders are baking, let’s whip up another butter mixture. In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining 5 tablespoons of melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and sea salt. This will give the tops of the sliders that irresistible finish.

Finish Baking

After the first baking round, remove the dish from the oven. Now place the top rolls on the sliders and generously brush the butter mixture over the top and sides. Cover loosely with foil to keep everything nice and warm, and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Once those minutes are up, uncover and let them bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until they’re golden brown and tempting.

Serve

Once done, let the sliders sit for about 5 minutes before slicing them apart and serving. This little waiting period helps everything set just right.

Serving Suggestions

To complete your meal, pair these Cuban sliders with a side of crispy potato chips or a light salad. The freshness of a salad balances the richness beautifully. If you’re up for it, serve with a zesty dipping sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

Tips for Success

For the best flavor profile, ensure your pulled pork is seasoned well. You can enhance the flavors even more by adding spices. Also, let the sliders rest for a moment before serving; this not only prevents burns but ensures a melty cheesy experience!

Variations

Mix things up a bit by substituting turkey for ham, creating a lighter version of this classic dish. If you’re in the mood for a kick, jalapeños can spice things up nicely, or you could add fresh cilantro for a unique twist.

Pairing Ideas

For beverages, enjoy with a refreshing mojito or a cold beer to complement those savory flavors. A side of coleslaw also balances the richness of the sliders perfectly, making every bite even more enjoyable.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cuban sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble your sliders ahead of time, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! If you’ve got a preference, Gouda or cheddar will work nicely as substitutes.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze Cuban sliders?
Yes, you can free the assembled, unbaked sliders! Just wrap them well and bake directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy.

5. What can I substitute for pulled pork?
Shredded chicken or turkey can be used as an alternative to pulled pork, giving you a similar satisfying dish.

Cuban sliders are more than just a tasty treat; they’re an invitation to gather and enjoy hearty flavors with those you love. Their layered simplicity belies the richness of their flavor, making them an instant favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day or casual weekend brunch, these sliders deliver satisfaction in each bite. Perfect as a starter or a main dish, the versatility makes them an indispensable recipe in your culinary arsenal. Prepare to relish the delicious blend of sweet, salty, and savory—it will leave your guests craving more!

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