How to Make the Perfect Cuban Sandwich
Cuban-American · Easy · 15 min · 2 servings
This pressed Cuban sandwich is a 15 minute recipe that layers ham, pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles into a crispy golden masterpiece. Quick enough for lunch or dinner, it delivers the bold flavors of a classic Cubano without the long wait.
Why this recipe works
This Cuban Sandwich recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 490 calories with 30g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 count Cuban or hoagie rolls
- 6 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 0.25 cup dill pickle slices
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Build the Sandwich
Slice the rolls open and spread yellow mustard on both inner sides. Layer deli ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickle slices on the bottom half and close the sandwich.
Step 2: Butter and Press
Spread softened butter on the outside of both sides of each sandwich. Place in a preheated skillet or panini press over medium heat and press firmly with a heavy pan or press.
Step 3: Cook Until Golden
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is fully melted. Slice diagonally and serve hot.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- Swiss cheese → provolone for a milder melting cheese
- deli ham → pulled pork leftovers for a more traditional Cubano
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not pressing the sandwich firmly enough which prevents the bread from crisping evenly
- Using thick bread that does not compress well and stays doughy in the center
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 490 calories, 30g protein, 34g carbs, 24g fat, 2g fiber.
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