Cuban Sliders

There’s nothing quite like a Cuban Sliders Recipe to bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table. These delightful little sandwiches are a hit at parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Imagine tender pork, ham, and Swiss cheese, all topped with a tangy mustard dressing, nestled between soft, buttery rolls. Let’s dive into this savory adventure that’s sure to impress.

Cuban sliders offer the perfect blend of zest and comfort. In each bite, you’ll experience a fusion of tastes that highlight bold spices, hearty ingredients, and a little bit of nostalgia. This dish is popular for its simplicity and versatility; you can serve it as an appetizer or a main dish. Plus, they’re fantastic for meal prep, just make a big batch and enjoy them for lunch all week long.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork shoulder – cut into small pieces (swap for chicken if preferred)
• 1 cup sliced ham
• 1 cup Swiss cheese – shredded
• 1/2 cup yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 slider rolls – preferably Hawaiian or King’s Hawaiian rolls
• 1/4 cup butter – melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Step 1:

Start by marinating your pork shoulder. Rub it generously with garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for a deeper flavor.

Step 2:

In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the marinated pork until it develops a nice brown crust. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3:

Transfer the pork to a slow cooker, add the sliced ham, and season lightly. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until tender. For a shortcut, you can find my easy slow cooker beef and broccoli recipe for more weeknight meal ideas.

Step 4:

Once the pork is done, shred it with two forks and mix it with the juices in the slow cooker. This step is key to juicy sliders.

Step 5:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Assemble your sliders by placing the bottom half of each roll in a baking dish. Spread a layer of mustard, followed by a generous amount of shredded pork, a layer of ham, and a sprinkle of Swiss cheese on top.

Step 6:

Place the top half of the rolls over the filling. Brush the melted butter over the tops, and for a little extra flavor, sprinkle with garlic powder.

Step 7:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top is golden.

Nutritional Information

These Cuban sliders are approximately 250 calories each. They are rich in protein thanks to the pork and ham, and while they do have a higher fat content due to the cheese and butter, they are also a fulfilling meal that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten them up? You can use lean turkey for the pork, low-fat cheese, and whole wheat sliders. Additionally, try swapping out the butter for a light drizzle of olive oil to brush on top. It’ll still taste amazing, trust me.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cuban sliders with a side of fresh coleslaw or sweet potato fries. A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances out the richness of the sliders beautifully. If you’re in the mood for pasta, check out my delicious Italian sausage bow tie pasta recipe that pairs wonderfully as a side dish.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overcooking the pork, which can lead to dry sliders. Keep an eye on the time, and remember, the meat should be fall-apart tender. Also, don’t skip the butter topping; it adds essential flavor that brings everything together.

Chef’s Notes

• For extra flavor, add pickles to the sliders; they are a game-changer.
• Want to spice things up? Add a layer of jalapeños for a kick.
• These sliders freeze beautifully, just wrap them in foil and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat in the oven.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; You can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the sliders just before baking.
• Q2: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
  A2: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for 1-2 months.
• Q3: Can I use a different bread?
  A3: Yes; Feel free to swap out the rolls for baguettes or even pita bread if you’re feeling creative.

In conclusion, the Cuban Sliders Recipe is a fantastic way to add a fun and flavorful dish to your menu. With their tasty combination of ingredients and endless possibilities for customization, you’ll find yourself making these again and again. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!

Print