Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! These Cuban Sliders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining tender beef and savory chicken chicken ham with gooey Swiss cheese, all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even game day snacks. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll become a staple in your home!

I love how these Cuban Sliders pack big flavor into small bites. They’re not only tasty but also super simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors and fun size of these tasty bites!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance for effortless entertaining or meal planning.
• Versatile flavors: Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.
• Perfect for sharing: Great as an appetizer or main dish, they are ideal for gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these Cuban Sliders! You likely have most of them already in your kitchen. Here’s what you need:

• 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)
• 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 mix things up and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or roast beef instead of chicken chicken ham for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: Spice things up by adding jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like provolone or cheddar for unique flavors.

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your sliders bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Unwrap those sweet Hawaiian rolls and slice them horizontally in one smooth motion. This keeps them connected while allowing you to layer all those tasty fillings on the bottom half. Place this bottom half in a baking dish that you’ve sprayed with cooking spray.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and three tablespoons of melted butter. Mixing until smooth is key here because it helps distribute those tangy flavors throughout the sliders.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now it’s time for some delicious assembly! Spread half of your sauce over the bottom rolls, then layer on half of the Swiss cheese slices. Next comes the savory chicken chicken ham followed by that tender pulled beef and crunchy pickles. Top it off with the remaining Swiss cheese before gently pressing down to create an even layer.

Step 5: Add the Topping

In another small bowl, mix together the remaining melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Brush this yummy mixture generously over the top and sides of your rolls—it adds so much flavor!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking dish loosely with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After that, uncover it and let it bake an additional five to ten minutes until those rolls are golden brown and invitingly cheesy. Once done, let them cool slightly before slicing apart and serving warm!

Enjoy every bite of these Cuban Sliders—they’re sure to become a favorite in your household!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Making Cuban sliders is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience. Here are some helpful tips to take your sliders to the next level:

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly sliced deli meats and high-quality Swiss cheese will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Freshness ensures that your sliders taste vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t skip the butter mixture: Brushing the tops of the rolls with the garlic and onion butter adds a savory richness that complements the fillings beautifully. This step not only enhances flavor but also creates a golden, crispy top.

• Let them rest before slicing: Allowing your sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking helps them hold together better when you slice them. It also allows the flavors to meld, making each bite even tastier.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to customize your sliders by adding other ingredients like roasted peppers or avocado slices. This allows you to cater to different tastes while keeping the essence of Cuban flavors.

• Serve warm: Cuban sliders are best enjoyed warm, as this allows the cheese to be melty and gooey. A warm slider creates a comforting experience that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile when it comes to presentation. Here are some ideas on how to serve them that will wow your guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling some fresh parsley over your sliders adds a pop of color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serving sliced jalapeños on the side lets guests customize their spice level without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: These crispy, slightly sweet fries complement the savory flavors of the sliders perfectly, offering a delightful contrast in taste.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots can balance out the richness of the sliders, adding crunch and acidity.
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness and is always a hit at gatherings, making it a great companion for Cuban sliders.
• Tomato salad: A simple tomato salad with olive oil and herbs can brighten up your meal with its fresh flavors, creating an overall well-rounded dining experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal centered around these scrumptious Cuban sliders! Enjoy every moment spent preparing and sharing this delightful dish with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cuban Sliders are perfect for meal prep, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily whip them up in advance, and they store beautifully for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Cuban Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Reassemble the sliders if possible to maintain their structure.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your sliders, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after baking but before adding the topping.
• Place the wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the plastic wrap and cover with foil; bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• For a crispier top, uncover for the last 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind while preparing your Cuban Sliders.

Can I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sliders up to the baking stage, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What are Cuban Sliders made of?

Cuban Sliders are made with soft Hawaiian rolls, layers of Swiss cheese, savory chicken ham, tender pulled beef, and crunchy pickles, all drizzled with a flavorful mustard sauce.

How do I customize my Cuban Sliders?

Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or different types of cheese. You can also swap out the meats based on your preference.

Are Cuban Sliders suitable for parties?

Yes! These sliders are perfect finger foods for parties and gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy without fuss.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delicious Cuban Sliders! They’re not only packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, these sliders are sure to impress. Enjoy making them as much as I did!