Cuban Sliders Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

As I prepared to dive into making Cuban sliders, I couldn’t help but think about what to serve alongside them. This dish begs for a refreshing coleslaw, crisp pickles, or a bright, zesty salsa. 

Each of these pairs beautifully. So, grab a cooler, gather your friends, and prepare for a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant flavors of Cuba right to your gathering.

Cuban sliders have become a staple at parties and barbecues. It’s no wonder why. These bite-sized delights combine smoky, savory flavors that make your taste buds dance.

Tender pulled pork, melted Swiss cheese, and crunchy pickles, all nestled on sweet rolls. If you’ve never tried making Cuban sliders, you’re in for a treat! Let’s embark on this delicious journey, where simplicity meets bold flavors.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

• Copycat Kfc Coleslaw
• Easy Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
• Hearty Homemade Corn Chowder

What is Cuban Sliders?

Cuban sliders are much more than just mini sandwiches. They are a delightful combination of ingredients inspired by traditional Cuban cuisine.  

This recipe focuses on layers of flavor packed into small rolls. Think of it as a flavor explosion, beautifully presented.

With a base of slow-cooked pulled pork, they’re topped with slices of ham and Swiss cheese. Dill pickles add a tangy crunch, while a buttery garlic-herb glaze elevates every bite.

 Prepare these sliders to impress, whether at a casual gathering or a more upscale occasion.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Cuban Sliders Recipe?

What sets my Cuban sliders apart? Let’s break it down. First, I emphasize freshness in ingredients. Using quality pulled pork enhances the flavor. I also went a step further by adding a unique blend of Dijon and yellow mustard that gives a distinctive tang.

 The buttery glaze, mixed with garlic and parsley, flawlessly complements the rich fillings, offering a touch of indulgence. It’s not just about slapping ingredients together; it’s about harmony in flavors and textures, which makes this recipe stand out in a sea of sliders.

How Does It Taste Like?

You might wonder what all these ingredients do together. Think of a warm hug from your grandmother’s kitchen. The sliders burst with savory flavors. The sweetness from the rolls contrasts with the saltiness of the ham and the rich pork.

 The creaminess of the cheese binds everything, while the tang from the pickles and mustard adds a refreshing kick. Each bite is a balance that feels comforting and exciting at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

1 lb. shredded pulled pork

3-4 dill pickle spears, thinly sliced lengthwise

12-count package of King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls

7 oz. thinly sliced Swiss cheese 

8 oz. thinly sliced deli ham 

1/4 cup Dijon mustard or classic yellow mustard, divided

For the buttery glaze topping

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1 Tbsp. fresh parsley, finely minced

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

For the optional dipping sauce 

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

3/4 cup mayonnaise

4 garlic cloves, pressed or finely minced

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 tsp. smoked paprika 

1/4 tsp. ground cumin

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Pork

Start by preparing your pulled pork. If you have the time, slow-cook a pork shoulder seasoned with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.

 Cook it on low for 8 hours until it’s fork-tender. Alternatively, you can use store-bought pulled pork to save time. Just make sure it’s high quality; it changes everything.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Next up, take your sweet rolls and slice them in half. Keep the tops and bottoms connected to maintain structure. Place the bottom halves in a baking dish, ready to be filled.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Now, unfold your magical flavor experience! Spread a generous layer of mustard on the bottom halves of the rolls. Next, pile on the shredded pulled pork, followed by a layer of ham, and finally, top with Swiss cheese.

 Don’t skimp here; you want enough cheese to melt and create a comforting, gooey texture.

Step 4: Add the Pickles

Grab those dill pickle slices and arrange them atop the cheese. This step is crucial. The crunch and tanginess from the pickles elevate the sliders, giving them that classic Cuban profile.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Now, carefully place the top half of the rolls back onto the fillings. You’ll want them snugly in place. It’s time for the extra flavor boost that makes these sliders unforgettable!

Step 6: Make the Buttery Glaze

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced parsley, garlic powder, and salt together. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the rolls. This glaze not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful golden finish.

Step 7: Bake the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. After that, uncover and let them bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 8: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the sliders are baking, mix your dipping sauce. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and cumin. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once the sliders have baked, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice them into individual pieces and serve with the optional dipping sauce on the side. Watch as your friends devour them!

Tips & Tricks On Making Cuban Sliders

Here are some tips to make your Cuban sliders even better:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality meats and cheeses. This will elevate the flavor.
  
• Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss is traditional, feel free to try cheddar or provolone if you prefer.
  
• Add Spice: For a kick, consider adding jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce.
  
• Make Ahead: You can assemble sliders a few hours before and bake them just before serving.
  
• Serve Hot: These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is melty and the rolls are warm.
  

Nutrition Information

Cuban Sliders Recipe Nutrition Facts

How Do I Store This Dish?

If you happen to have leftovers (which I doubt), store sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F until warmed through. You could also microwave them, but that might make the rolls a little sad.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Cuban Sliders Recipe?

Explore these alternate ingredients to mix things up:

• Pulled Chicken: Swap pork for pulled chicken for a lighter option that’s still full of flavor.
  
• Roast Vegetables: For a vegetarian option, try roasted peppers, zucchini, and eggplant layered with cheese.
  
• Turkey Ham: Use turkey ham instead of traditional pork ham for a healthier version.
  
• Gluten-Free Rolls: Replace sweet rolls with gluten-free versions for gluten-sensitive friends.
  
• Sriracha Sauce: Add this for a spicy kick instead of the Dijon mustard in the glaze.
  

Conclusion

Cuban sliders are delightful bites that promise to impress everyone around the table. The combination of flavors makes them irresistible. With a bit of preparation, you can pull off this dish with ease.

 At your next gathering, elevate your serving game by presenting these delicious sliders. They’re comforting yet adventurous, just like your favorite travel stories from Cuba.

 Enjoy the process and the flavors that unfold with every bite.  You’ll have everyone asking for seconds, and who doesn’t love that? So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get to sliders business!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

• Copycat Kfc Coleslaw
• Bacon Cheese Dip
• Easy Hot Cocoa Dip