Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe—Cuban Sliders! These little gems are ideal for busy weeknights or fun family gatherings. Imagine soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls layered with gooey Swiss cheese, tender beef, savory chicken chicken ham, and crunchy pickles. Each bite is a burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!

What makes this recipe truly special is how quickly it comes together. You can whip up a batch in just about 40 minutes. Perfect for when unexpected guests arrive or when you’re simply craving something hearty and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors. It’s a hit at the dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Big on Flavor: The mix of Swiss cheese, pulled beef, and tangy pickles creates a mouthwatering experience that you won’t forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cuban Sliders come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need!

For the Sliders

• 12 count Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
• 3 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 8 ounces thinly sliced deli chicken chicken ham
• 2-1/2 cups cooked pulled beef (see note 1)
• 12 slices Swiss cheese
• 30 dill pickle chips (drained)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

For the Topping

• 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 (see note 2)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or roasted vegetables instead of pulled beef for a lighter option.
• Change up the cheese: Try pepper jack or cheddar for an extra kick of flavor.
• Add some veggies: Sliced bell peppers or spinach can add color and nutrition to your sliders.
• Spice it up: A little jalapeño or hot sauce can give your sliders an exciting twist.

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is important because we want our sliders to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Next, unwrap those delicious Hawaiian rolls! Using a sharp serrated knife, slice through all the rolls horizontally while keeping them connected. This not only makes assembling easier but also helps them stay warm and gooey once baked!

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Mixing this sauce adds flavor to every bite of your Cuban Sliders. Spread half on the bottom half of the rolls in your baking dish and reserve the rest for later.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now it’s time for layering! Place half of the Swiss cheese on the bottom rolls, followed by a layer of chicken chicken ham, then that succulent pulled beef, topped with crunchy pickles. Finish off with the remaining Swiss cheese. Press down gently so everything holds together nicely.

Step 5: Butter Those Top Rolls

In another small bowl, mix together melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Brush this flavorful mixture over the top rolls; it adds an irresistible buttery finish!

Step 6: Bake Your Sliders

Cover your dish loosely with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and let them bake an additional 5–10 minutes until they are golden brown. This step is crucial because it melts all that lovely cheese into gooey perfection!

Once done, let them cool slightly before slicing apart those delicious Cuban Sliders. Serve immediately and enjoy each mouthful of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Making Cuban sliders is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rolls and high-quality meats make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Opting for fresh deli meats and good cheese can elevate your sliders from ordinary to extraordinary.

• Don’t Skip the Butter Mixture: Brushing the rolls with the garlic and onion butter adds a deliciously rich flavor. This step not only enhances taste but also gives the sliders a beautiful golden-brown finish.

• Layer Smartly: Ensure even distribution of your ingredients when layering. This helps each slider have a perfect balance of flavors in every bite, making them more enjoyable for your guests.

• Let Them Rest: Allowing the sliders to rest after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to slice apart. This little patience pays off in improved taste!

• Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to mix things up! Add some roasted peppers or swap out Swiss cheese for another favorite. Personalizing your sliders can lead to exciting new flavors.

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Presenting your Cuban sliders beautifully will impress your guests while enhancing their dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a little heat, fresh jalapeño slices offer an inviting crunch and spice.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries complement the savory sliders perfectly, adding an additional layer of sweetness that balances the meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the sliders.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with lime and chili powder brings a burst of summery flavor that pairs wonderfully with these hearty sandwiches.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and tang that contrasts with the warm, gooey sliders, making every bite delightful.

Enjoy crafting these Cuban sliders for your next gathering or cozy dinner at home! They are sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Cuban Sliders are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their mouthwatering flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume them within 3-4 days for the best taste.
• If you have them unbaked, keep the prepared rolls covered with foil in the fridge before baking.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders but do not bake them.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Remove the sliders from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through and golden.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cuban Sliders that might help you out!

Can I use different meats for Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken chicken ham and pulled beef, feel free to mix it up with your favorite deli meats or leftovers.

How do I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the sliders up to baking, cover them tightly, and refrigerate or freeze them. Just remember to adjust baking times if they’re cold from the fridge or frozen!

What are Cuban Sliders?

Cuban Sliders are bite-sized sandwiches made with soft Hawaiian rolls, layered with Swiss cheese, savory meats, and crunchy pickles. They’re a delicious twist on traditional Cuban sandwiches!

Can Cuban Sliders be served at parties?

Definitely! These sliders are perfect for gatherings as they are easy to make in large batches and are always a hit with guests.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give these Cuban Sliders a try! They offer such a delightful blend of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Making this recipe is not just about enjoying delicious food; it’s about creating memories around the table. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!