This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Sandwich lovers, unite- it’s time to make the ultimate sandwich! It is essential that you save plenty of leftover Cuban-Inspired Pulled Pork so that you can make these incredibly delicious Cuban Sandwiches.
A Cuban sandwich, also known as a Cubano, is a grilled ham-and-cheese sandwich variation that was created in Florida by Cuban immigrants who needed a filling and easy-to-carry lunch [source: The Spruce Eats]
If you’ve never experienced a Cuban sandwich before– be prepared to fall in love. Typically the sandwich is layered with two kinds of pork (I use the leftover pulled pork and sliced ham), melted swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It is then toasted in butter and pressed to perfection. This is truly one ultimate sandwich for pork lovers!
While versions vary in this popular Cuban-American sandwich, the essential ingredient is the roasted pork, traditionally marinated in a mojo sauce redolent with orange juice, lime juice, garlic, oregano, and cumin. Like I mentioned, I use my leftover Cuban-Inspired pulled pork, which is slow-cooked in a garlicky and herby mojo sauce. I also reserve some of the mojo to drizzle on my Cuban sandwich to elevate the sandwich even further.
One of the best gifts I was given for my wedding was a panini press, which is what I used here when making these sandwiches. You can also use a heavy bottom skillet to press the sandwiches while grilling if you don’t have one.. but be sure to add a good panini press to your list of things to add to your kitchen. It’s truly one of the most fun gadgets to have around for sandwich making!
If you make my Cuban-Inspired Pulled Pork, it truly is the gift that keeps on giving. You can make bowls, wraps, tacos, and of course, the best– a delicious Cuban Sandwich! Enjoy!
If you love this recipe, here are some other faves you might love, too!
Whole30 BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Cuban Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons mayo
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoons grainy dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 ciabatta bread rolls sliced in half lengthwise
- Cuban Inspired Pulled Pork
- Mojo
- Sliced dill pickle chips
- 8 slices swiss cheese
- 4 thin slices of deli ham I use black forest
Instructions
- In a small bowl, stir together the mayo, yellow mustard and grainy mustard until well combined.
- Rub the outer side of the top and bottom of each roll with 1 tablespoon of the softened butter and arrange, butter-side down, on a cutting board. Spread the mustard mixture on the inside of each piece of bread.
- On the bottom half of each piece of bread, layer 2 slices of Swiss cheese, followed by 2 slices of ham, a layer of Cuban-Inspired pulled pork, a drizzle of the mojo sauce, a few slices of pickles, and then 2 more slices of Swiss on top. Close with the top half of the bread. Repeat with the second loaf and fixings.
- Heat up a panini maker according to the directions. Then, working in batches, press the sandwiches until golden brown and the cheese has melted, 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a board and cut each one in half on a bias, then serve.
Notes
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Photography and styling by Eat Love Eats.
Mayo?? Mayo on a Cuban sandwich? Where’s this recipe from?, Tampa??
Dijon mustard?
And ciabatta bread? What happened to the traditional Cuban bread?
This sounds like a great sandwich, just don’t call it Cuban.
I’ve been making Cuban Sandwiches for over 30 years. I’ve been rated by Food Network as one of the best Zagat as one of the best Cuban sandwiches. Do not have mayo never had and should never and you don’t press it with a Panini press.
Best sandwich ever!! I’m still drooling over this delicious and flavorful recipe. Don’t sleep on the mojo sauce. It is quintessential, and DEFINITELY elevates this sandwich. Thank you Alex again for another amazing meal!
this was the best sandwich i’ve ever made. my kids loved them too!
So glad you loved it, Megan!!
Glad you remembered the mojo, sad you forgot the bread 🙁
These are easily the best sandwiches I have ever made! I premade the pork and we had tacos last night, so I warmed up the meat before I assembled the sandwiches! It made for an easy and quick meal that was so delicious!
glad to hear it! thank you!