The Cuban Sandwich, also known as Cubano, is a legendary pressed sandwich that perfectly balances savory, tangy, and buttery flavors. Originating from Cuban immigrant communities in Florida—especially Tampa and Miami—this sandwich layers tender roasted pork, smoky ham, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and sharp yellow mustard on Cuban bread, then presses it until golden and crisp.
What makes the Cuban sandwich truly special is its contrast of textures: crunchy on the outside, warm and melty on the inside. It’s hearty yet elegant, simple yet deeply flavorful. Whether served for lunch, dinner, or a weekend indulgence, this sandwich delivers comfort and authenticity in every bite.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it transforms simple deli-style ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of roasted pork and ham creates depth, while Swiss cheese melts beautifully into the bread. Pressing the sandwich gives it that irresistible crispy crust that makes every bite satisfying.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This is a must-try dish because it’s iconic, easy to make at home, and incredibly rewarding. The Cuban sandwich offers bold flavor without complicated techniques. If you enjoy grilled sandwiches or global comfort foods, this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Calories: Approximately 520–560 calories per sandwich
Course: Main Course / Sandwich
Cuisine: Cuban / Latin American
Ingredients
- 4 Cuban bread rolls or soft hoagie rolls
- 12 oz cooked roasted pork, thinly sliced
- 8 oz sliced ham
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 8–12 dill pickle slices
- 2–3 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Cooking Directions
The Cuban sandwich is assembled in layers, buttered on the outside, and pressed until the bread is crisp and the cheese is fully melted. A sandwich press or heavy skillet works best.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Slice the Cuban rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
Step 2: Spread Mustard
Spread yellow mustard evenly on the inside of both sides of the bread.
Step 3: Layer the Fillings
Layer Swiss cheese, ham, roasted pork, pickle slices, and another layer of Swiss cheese.
Step 4: Butter the Outside
Lightly butter the outside of each sandwich for crisping.
Step 5: Press and Cook
Place the sandwich in a hot sandwich press or skillet. Press firmly and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Remove from heat, slice diagonally, and serve hot.
How to Serve
Serve Cuban sandwiches hot and crispy, sliced in halves or quarters. They pair perfectly with plantain chips, fries, coleslaw, or a light green salad. A side of extra pickles adds an authentic touch.
Recipe Tips
- Use authentic Cuban bread if possible
- Press firmly to achieve a crispy crust
- Don’t overload the sandwich—balance is key
- Use good-quality Swiss cheese for best melt
- Serve immediately for optimal texture
Variations
Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich
Classic version with only pork, ham, cheese, pickles, and mustard.
Tampa-Style Cuban Sandwich
Add sliced salami for extra flavor.
Spicy Cuban Sandwich
Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Turkey Cuban Sandwich
Substitute turkey for ham or pork for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Pressed Sandwich
Use grilled vegetables and Swiss-style cheese.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator:
Assembled but uncooked sandwiches can be wrapped and stored for up to 2 days.
Freezer:
Freeze assembled sandwiches (without pickles) for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet or sandwich press until hot and crispy.
Special Equipment Needed
- Panini press or sandwich press
- Heavy skillet (if no press available)
- Spatula
- Bread knife
Conclusion
The Cuban Sandwich with Ham, Pork, and Swiss Cheese is a true classic that delivers bold flavor, comforting textures, and cultural authenticity. Easy to make yet incredibly satisfying, it’s perfect for anyone who loves pressed sandwiches and global comfort food. Once you try it homemade, it’s sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.
Cuban Sandwich with Ham, Pork, and Swiss Cheese
Description
The Cuban Sandwich, also known as Cubano, is a legendary pressed sandwich that perfectly balances savory, tangy, and buttery flavors. Originating from Cuban immigrant communities in Florida—especially Tampa and Miami—this sandwich layers tender roasted pork, smoky ham, creamy Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and sharp yellow mustard on Cuban bread, then presses it until golden and crisp.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bread : Slice the Cuban rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
-
Spread Mustard : Spread yellow mustard evenly on the inside of both sides of the bread.
-
Layer the Fillings : Layer Swiss cheese, ham, roasted pork, pickle slices, and another layer of Swiss cheese.
-
Butter the Outside : Lightly butter the outside of each sandwich for crisping.
-
Press and Cook : Place the sandwich in a hot sandwich press or skillet. Press firmly and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and the cheese is melted.
-
Slice and Serve : Remove from heat, slice diagonally, and serve hot.
