Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to feed a crowd, these Cuban Sliders are just the ticket! They’re like a little party on a plate—perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or game day snacks. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up and how everyone devours them! The combination of gooey Swiss cheese, savory chicken ham, and tender pulled beef nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls makes each bite an absolute delight.

These Cuban Sliders are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a great way to bring people together. Whether you’re serving them at a casual get-together or as a cozy dinner with family, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: These sliders come together in just 40 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves sliders! They are the ideal size for little hands and big appetites alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble these ahead of time and bake them just before serving for ultimate ease.
• Big Flavor in Every Bite: With layers of Swiss cheese, pulled beef, and pickles, these sliders pack a punch that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these Cuban Sliders, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this tasty dish!

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your sliders. Here are some delicious variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or grilled chicken instead of pulled beef for a lighter option.
• Add some spice: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
• Go vegetarian: Use roasted vegetables or portobello mushrooms instead of meat for a hearty, veggie-packed version.
• Change the bread: Experiment with different types of rolls like pretzel buns or whole wheat for your sliders.

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your sliders will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Unwrap the rolls and use a sharp serrated knife to slice horizontally through all the rolls in one go. Keep them connected! Place the bottom half of the rolls in a prepared baking dish; this will hold all those delicious fillings.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and three tablespoons of melted (but slightly cooled) butter. This sauce adds flavor and moisture to each layer. Spread half over the bottom half of the rolls and reserve the rest for later.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now it’s time to build! Start with half the Swiss cheese slices on the bottom rolls. Then add layers of chicken ham, followed by pulled beef, crunchy pickles, and finish with more Swiss cheese. Press down gently; this helps everything meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Brush with Butter Mixture

In another small bowl, combine five tablespoons of melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. This mixture adds an irresistible flavor on top! Brush it generously over the top and sides of your assembled sliders.

Step 6: Bake Your Sliders

Cover your dish loosely with foil and bake for about twenty minutes. Remove the foil for an additional five to ten minutes until the rolls are golden brown and cheese is melty. Let them stand for five minutes before slicing apart—this makes serving so much easier!

Once you’re ready to dive into these Cuban Sliders, get ready for smiles all around! Enjoy each mouthful filled with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Making Cuban Sliders is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out absolutely scrumptious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients can make all the difference in flavor. Opt for freshly sliced deli meats and high-quality Swiss cheese to enhance the overall taste of your sliders.

• Don’t skip on the butter: Brushing the tops of the rolls with melted butter mixed with garlic and onion adds a rich depth of flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust.

• Let them rest: Allowing your sliders to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps the cheese set slightly, making them easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your twist! Consider including sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or swapping in different cheeses like provolone if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Serve warm: These sliders are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is melty and gooey. Serve immediately after baking for the ultimate experience.

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Cuban Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile when it comes to presentation. You can elevate your serving game by considering simple garnishes and pairing them with complementary side dishes!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze some zest over their sliders, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that complements the rich flavors of the sliders.

• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds crunch and balance to each bite while providing a refreshing element.

• Grilled corn on the cob: Smothered in lime juice and sprinkled with chili powder, grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with these savory sliders.

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the richness of the sliders.

With these tips for serving Cuban Sliders, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends at any gathering! Enjoy each bite as you savor this delightful fusion of flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cuban Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your sliders fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before storing.
• Place the leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the sliders.
• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen sliders, remove from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the sliders on a baking sheet covered with foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Uncover for the last few minutes to crisp up the tops!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cuban Sliders!

Can I use different types of cheese for Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with provolone, mozzarella, or your favorite melty cheese. Just ensure it complements the savory flavors of the ham and beef.

How do I make Cuban Sliders vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Cuban Sliders, simply replace the chicken ham and pulled beef with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add some plant-based meat alternatives for added protein!

What makes Cuban Sliders unique?

Cuban Sliders stand out because they combine sweet Hawaiian rolls with savory fillings like chicken ham and pulled beef, topped off with tangy pickles. The blend of flavors is both comforting and satisfying!

How do I serve Cuban Sliders at a party?

Serve Cuban Sliders cut into individual pieces on a platter with toothpicks. Pair them with dipping sauces like mustard or a zesty aioli for an extra touch that guests will love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cuban Sliders! They’re not just food; they’re little bites of happiness that bring friends and family together. Whether it’s a game day treat or a casual weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. Get those Hawaiian rolls ready and enjoy every delicious bite!