How to Make the Perfect Cubano Cuban Pressed Sandwich
Cuban · Medium · 30 min · 2 servings
The Cubano is a pressed Cuban sandwich layered with slow-roasted mojo pork, ham, Swiss cheese, yellow mustard, and dill pickles on a buttered Cuban bread roll. Pressing and grilling the sandwich until flat and golden creates the signature crispy exterior and perfectly melded interior.
Why this recipe works
This Cubano Cuban Pressed Sandwich recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 690 calories with 40g 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 pieces Cuban bread rolls or soft hoagie rolls
- 200 grams slow-roasted mojo pork shoulder sliced thin
- 100 grams thinly sliced deli ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 slices dill pickles
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Slice and Prepare the Bread
Slice the Cuban bread rolls lengthwise and spread yellow mustard on both inner surfaces generously. Do not use any mayonnaise or other condiments in an authentic Cubano as they are not traditional and change the flavor balance.
Step 2: Layer the Fillings
Layer the sliced deli ham on the bottom half of the bread first, followed by the roasted mojo pork, then the Swiss cheese slices, and finally the dill pickle slices on top. The order of layering helps everything meld together during pressing.
Step 3: Butter and Press the Sandwich
Brush the outside of the top and bottom of each assembled sandwich with softened butter. Heat a cast iron skillet or panini press over medium heat. Place the sandwich inside and press down with a heavy pan or press. Cook for 4 minutes.
Step 4: Flip and Finish Pressing
Carefully flip the sandwich and press again for another 3 to 4 minutes until both sides are deeply golden and crispy and the cheese has fully melted inside. The sandwich should be noticeably flattened. Slice diagonally and serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- mojo pork shoulder → pulled rotisserie chicken seasoned with garlic, cumin, and citrus juice for a quick alternative
- Cuban bread rolls → soft hoagie rolls or Italian sub rolls which come closest to the authentic bread texture
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not pressing the sandwich firmly enough which leaves the cheese unmelted and the bread unflattened contrary to what a proper Cubano should be
- Adding mayonnaise or lettuce which are not traditional and overpower the precise balance of the classic recipe
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 690 calories, 40g protein, 50g carbs, 34g fat, 2g fiber.
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