Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser, these Cuban Sliders are just the ticket! They’re perfect for game days, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Picture this: soft Hawaiian rolls piled high with gooey Swiss cheese, tender pulled beef, savory chicken chicken ham, and crunchy pickles. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making them a favorite at any table. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying your company!

These sliders are not just delicious; they also fit right into your busy schedule. With just a little prep and some baking time, you’ll have a tasty dish ready to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes—perfect for busy nights!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the combination of flavors and textures.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep these sliders earlier in the day and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile: Great for appetizers or as a main dish. Serve them up at parties or casual dinners!
• Big Flavor in Every Bite: The mix of savory meats, cheese, and pickles creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that make these Cuban Sliders truly special. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

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! Feel free to personalize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or roast beef instead of chicken chicken ham for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a bit of heat.
• Go veggie: Replace the meats with roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a delightful vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Try provolone or cheddar if Swiss isn’t your favorite!

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. This step is essential because it ensures even cooking. While your oven heats up, you can get everything else ready!

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Unwrap those delightful Hawaiian rolls! Using a sharp serrated knife, slice through all the rolls horizontally while keeping them connected. Place the bottom half into a prepared baking dish. This will create a sturdy base for all those delicious layers we’re about to build.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of melted (but slightly cooled) butter. Mixing until smooth adds great flavor to our sliders! Spread half of this sauce over the bottom half of the rolls in your baking dish. Don’t forget to coat the cut side of the top half too—that’s where all the magic happens!

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now it’s time for layering! Start by placing half of your Swiss cheese on top of the bottom rolls. Next comes that savory chicken chicken ham followed by tender pulled beef and crunchy pickles. Finish with another layer of Swiss cheese before pressing down gently—this helps keep everything together while baking.

Step 5: Butter It Up

In another small bowl, mix together the remaining melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. This mixture will add golden color and incredible flavor to your sliders! Brush it generously over the top and sides of the rolls using a pastry brush.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover your dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncovering it for an additional 5–10 minutes allows those top rolls to turn golden brown while melting all that amazing cheese underneath. Once done, let them cool for about five minutes before slicing apart—this will make serving much easier!

Enjoy every bite of these delicious Cuban Sliders—they’re bound to become a favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Making Cuban sliders is a delightful experience that can be even more rewarding with a few simple tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rolls, high-quality deli meats, and freshly sliced cheese will enhance the flavors and textures of your sliders, bringing them to life.

• Don’t rush the baking: Allowing the sliders to bake covered and then uncovered ensures that they become perfectly golden and that the cheese melts beautifully without drying out.

• Customize your fillings: Feel free to mix and match deli meats or add your favorite toppings like roasted red peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick—it’s all about making it yours!

• Serve warm: Cuban sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are warm, gooey, and flavorful. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven to maintain their deliciousness.

• Prep ahead of time: You can assemble the sliders a few hours before baking. Just cover them tightly in foil and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to pop them in the oven.

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

These Cuban sliders make for an impressive centerpiece whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner. They’re easy to serve and sure to please everyone at the table!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a hint of freshness that brightens up every bite.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices can complement the savory flavors of the sliders, providing a delightful texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: These crispy fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory sliders and are packed with nutrients. Bake or air-fry for a healthier option!
• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw pairs well with the richness of the sliders. It adds freshness and balances out their hearty flavors.
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a great summer side that adds sweetness and a bit of crunch. You can even sprinkle some lime juice and chili powder for extra zing.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad brings a refreshing touch to your meal. Use seasonal fruits for maximum flavor and color!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cuban sliders will be an unforgettable dish at any occasion! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cuban Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep them fresh, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezing

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen sliders in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Cuban Sliders:

Can I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Cuban Sliders and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just follow the storage instructions above for optimal freshness.

How do I reheat leftover Cuban Sliders?

To reheat your Cuban Sliders, simply preheat your oven to 350°F, cover them with foil on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

What kind of cheese works best for Cuban Sliders?

Swiss cheese is traditional for Cuban Sliders due to its melting properties and flavor profile. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone if you prefer!

Are there any good substitutes for chicken chicken ham?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, try using turkey deli meat or even a plant-based ham substitute for a different twist on these sliders.

Can I customize my Cuban Sliders?

Definitely! You can add extra ingredients like jalapeños for spice or different types of pickles to suit your taste. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

These Cuban Sliders bring together a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are sure to impress friends and family alike. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Whether it’s for a cozy dinner at home or a fun gathering with loved ones, these sliders are bound to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to try them out—I can’t wait for you to experience their deliciousness!