Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dish that everyone will love, then these Cuban Sliders are just what you need. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even game day parties. Each slider is a mini masterpiece, loaded with gooey Swiss cheese, savory chicken ham, and tender pulled beef nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. Trust me; once you make these sliders, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

What makes this recipe so special? It’s simple yet packed with big flavors. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delicious Cuban Sliders!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these sliders—each bite is bursting with flavor!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and bake them just before serving.
• Versatile: These sliders can be tailored to fit any occasion, from casual lunches to festive parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome components that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Cuban Sliders shine:

• 12 count Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
• 3 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 8 ounces thinly sliced deli 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)
• 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

One of the best things about Cuban Sliders is how flexible this recipe can be. Feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or roast beef instead of chicken ham and pulled beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Layer in some sautéed bell peppers or onions for an extra crunch and sweetness.
• Go spicy: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a little kick.
• Cheese swap: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for a unique twist.

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F while you prepare the sliders. This ensures that they bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Unwrap those wonderful Hawaiian rolls and slice them horizontally in one smooth motion. Keeping them connected allows for an easy assembly! Place the bottom half in your greased baking dish, ready to be filled.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and melted butter. This sauce adds depth of flavor to our sliders. Spread half over the bottom of the rolls and reserve the rest for later.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now comes the fun part! Start layering—first with Swiss cheese, then add chicken ham followed by pulled beef and pickles. Top it all off with more Swiss cheese before gently pressing down to create an even layer.

Step 5: Butter Mixture Magic

Mix melted butter with garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and sea salt flakes. Brush this flavorful blend over the top of your assembled sliders—it’ll give them that beautiful golden crust we all crave!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 20 minutes before removing the foil for an additional few minutes until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before slicing apart—you don’t want to burn your fingers when you dive into these tasty treats!

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Cuban Sliders!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Creating the perfect Cuban sliders is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your sliders turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rolls, quality cheese, and freshly cooked beef will enhance the flavors of your sliders. Freshness makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.

• Don’t skip the foil cover: Covering the sliders with foil during baking helps them steam, keeping them moist and ensuring the cheese melts beautifully. This step is essential for soft, gooey goodness!

• Let them rest: Allowing the sliders to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps everything set, making it easier to slice and serve. This resting period gives you well-formed sliders that hold their shape.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Adding jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy mustard can give your sliders an exciting twist. Variety keeps things fun!

• Make them ahead: Prepare the sliders in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect for parties or family gatherings when you want to save time!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders make for a delightful dish that’s sure to impress! When serving these tasty bites, presentation is key. Here are some ideas on how to present your sliders beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro sprigs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness that brightens up your dish.
• Sliced cherry tomatoes: Placing halved cherry tomatoes around your slider platter adds a pop of color and a refreshing element.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty kick if they choose, enhancing flavor options!

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a delicious alternative to regular fries, providing sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the sliders.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and brightness, pairing perfectly with the rich flavors of the Cuban sliders. It’s also refreshing!
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds summer vibes and is easy to eat alongside your sliders.
• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the richness of Cuban sliders without overwhelming flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create memorable moments around your table with these scrumptious Cuban sliders! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cuban Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time for a party, or simply store leftovers for a delicious lunch throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven for best results.

Freezing

• Allow sliders to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Remove any wrapping and place sliders on a baking sheet.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making Cuban Sliders!

Can I use different types of cheese for Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or mozzarella for different flavors.

How do I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

You can assemble the sliders without baking them, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time as needed if they are cold from the fridge.

What are Cuban Sliders typically served with?

Cuban Sliders pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.

Can I customize the filling of my Cuban Sliders?

Yes! Feel free to swap out the chicken ham or pulled beef for your favorite deli meats or even veggies!

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields 12 sliders, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a hearty meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Cuban Sliders as much as I do! They’re not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a family dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to put your own twist on them—happy cooking!