Cuban Sliders

These Cuban Sliders are a delightful twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, bringing together layers of ham, pickles, Swiss cheese, and zesty mustard in a mini slider format. Perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings, these sliders offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Their easy preparation and satisfying taste make them a standout choice for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sliders
• How to Make Cuban Sliders
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Assemble the Bottom Half
• Step 3: Add Ham
• Step 4: Layer Cheese
• Step 5: Add Pickles and More Mustard
• Step 6: Press Down with Foil
• Step 7: Bake Under Pressure
• Step 8: Crisp Up Topping
• Step 9: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Cuban Sliders
• Pair with Dipping Sauces
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Serve with Chips
• Create a Slider Bar
• How to Perfect Cuban Sliders
• Best Side Dishes for Cuban Sliders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cuban Sliders
• Reheating Cuban Sliders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of cheese for Cuban Sliders?
• How do I make Cuban Sliders vegetarian?
• How spicy are Cuban Sliders?
• What dishes pair well with Cuban Sliders?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory ham, tangy pickles, and melted Swiss cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as appetizers for parties or a fun meal for the family.
• Easy to Customize: Use different types of meats or cheeses to cater to your personal preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing Size: Each slider is just the right size for snacking or serving at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Cuban Sliders, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking dish
• Nonstick spray
• Aluminum foil
• Second baking dish (for pressing)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking dish: Provides ample space to arrange all sliders comfortably without overcrowding.
• Nonstick spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal once baked.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain heat while pressing down the sliders for even cooking.
• Second baking dish: Acts as a weight to press the sliders, enhancing their texture and flavor.

Ingredients

These Baked Cuban Sliders are stuffed with ham, pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard and lightly pressed while they bake. So delicious!

For the Sliders

• 12 slider buns
• 1 pound deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• ¼ cup mustard (divided)
• 3 medium pickles (sliced longwise)
• Nonstick spray

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F. While it’s heating up, spray a large baking dish with nonstick spray to prepare it for the sliders.

Step 2: Assemble the Bottom Half

Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Lay the bottom halves in the prepared baking dish. Spread about 2 tablespoons of mustard over these buns for added flavor.

Step 3: Add Ham

Top the mustard-coated buns with sliced deli ham. Feel free to mix different varieties if you want more depth of flavor.

Step 4: Layer Cheese

Place slices of Swiss cheese on top of the ham, ensuring each slider gets a generous portion.

Step 5: Add Pickles and More Mustard

Layer sliced pickles over the cheese. Drizzle additional mustard over the pickles before placing the top halves of the slider buns on top. Lightly spray these tops with nonstick spray.

Step 6: Press Down with Foil

Cover your sliders with aluminum foil. Use a second baking dish on top to press down firmly on the sliders. This step helps meld all flavors together beautifully.

Step 7: Bake Under Pressure

Bake your sliders at 400˚F while they are pressed for about 20 minutes. This ensures that they cook evenly and stay moist.

Step 8: Crisp Up Topping

After removing the press pan and foil, return sliders to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until they become golden brown and crispy at the top while melting the cheese inside.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Once done baking, let them cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your flavorful Cuban Sliders!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Baked Cuban Sliders are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual party or a family gathering, these sliders are sure to impress your guests.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Mustard Dip: A classic pairing, this tangy dip complements the flavors of the ham and cheese beautifully.
• Garlic Aioli: For an elevated touch, serve with garlic aioli for a creamy and savory experience.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Cuban Black Bean Salad: This salad adds a refreshing contrast with its zesty dressing and crunchy veggies.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: Bright, sweet fruits provide a delightful balance to the savory sliders.

Serve with Chips

• Plantain Chips: These crispy chips add texture and an authentic Cuban vibe to your meal.
• Potato Chips: Classic salty potato chips can provide that satisfying crunch alongside your sliders.

Create a Slider Bar

• Customize Your Fillings: Allow guests to build their own sliders with additional toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or different cheeses.
• Variety of Breads: Offer multiple types of buns for a fun twist on the classic Cuban slider.

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How to Perfect Cuban Sliders

To ensure your Baked Cuban Sliders are perfectly delicious every time, follow these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh deli ham and quality Swiss cheese will enhance flavor significantly.
• Don’t Skip the Pressing: Pressing down on the sliders while they bake helps meld the flavors together and creates a nice texture.
• Experiment with Mustard Varieties: Different mustards like spicy brown or honey mustard can add unique flavors to your sliders.
• Toast the Buns Slightly: Lightly toasting the slider buns before assembling can prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your sliders during the last few minutes of baking to achieve perfect crispness.

Best Side Dishes for Cuban Sliders

Serving side dishes alongside Cuban Sliders can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some tasty suggestions to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter complements the flavors while adding summer vibes.
3. Fried Yucca: A popular Latin American side, fried yucca offers a crispy texture that pairs well with any sandwich.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast that works well alongside savory sliders.
5. Cuban Black Beans and Rice: A filling option that adds protein and pairs wonderfully with any Cuban dish.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies can cut through the richness of the sliders for a refreshing bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cuban Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using stale buns: Fresh slider buns are crucial for the best texture. Always use soft, fresh buns to ensure your sliders are delicious.
• Overstuffing: While it’s tempting to add more fillings, overstuffing can cause the sliders to fall apart. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced bite.
• Skipping the press: Pressing the sliders while baking helps meld flavors and achieve that perfect texture. Don’t skip this step for optimal results.
• Not monitoring baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your sliders. Baking too long can dry them out, while underbaking may leave them soggy.
• Ignoring customization options: Cuban Sliders are versatile! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different meats or cheeses for a personalized touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cuban Sliders

• Place cooled sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cuban Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350˚F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Check frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cuban Sliders.

Can I use different types of cheese for Cuban Sliders?

Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses like cheddar or provolone if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make Cuban Sliders vegetarian?

You can substitute ham with grilled vegetables or tempeh. Use mustard and pickles for that authentic taste without meat.

How spicy are Cuban Sliders?

Cuban Sliders are generally mild but adding jalapeños or spicy mustard can give them an extra kick if desired.

What dishes pair well with Cuban Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with potato chips, coleslaw, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cuban Sliders are not just tasty; they’re also incredibly versatile! You can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick snack, these sliders will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Give them a try today!