Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s full of flavor and super easy to make, then these Cuban Sliders are just what you need! They are perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or game day parties. Each bite is a delightful mix of gooey Swiss cheese, tender pulled beef, savory chicken chicken ham, and crunchy pickles—all nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. I promise, once you make these sliders, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip them up in about 40 minutes and serve them warm from the oven. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; you can customize them to suit your taste or dietary needs. Trust me, your friends and family will be raving about these Cuban Sliders!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders ready to bake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves sliders! They’re fun to eat and perfect for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of flavors is unbeatable—sweet rolls paired with savory meats and tangy pickles!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these sliders fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Cuban Sliders:

For the Sliders

• 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)

For the Topping

• 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 their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of pulled beef or chicken chicken ham, try deli turkey or roast beef instead.
• Add some spice: Throw in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick that will delight spice lovers!
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meats with hearty roasted vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for a delicious veggie version.
• Change the cheese: Switch out Swiss cheese for provolone or pepper jack if you’re looking for something different.

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.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Unwrap those lovely Hawaiian rolls! Use a sharp serrated knife to slice horizontally through all the rolls at once while keeping them connected. Place the bottom half into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is key because it makes layering your ingredients so much easier.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of melted (but slightly cooled) butter until smooth. Spread half of this flavorful sauce over the bottom half of your rolls in the baking dish. The sauce adds wonderful depth and flavor that complements all the ingredients beautifully.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now it’s time for the fun part—layering! Start by placing half of the Swiss cheese slices on top of the bottom rolls. Then add your chicken chicken ham followed by the pulled beef and dill pickle chips. Top everything off with the remaining Swiss cheese slices before gently pressing down to create an even layer.

Step 5: Finish with Butter Mixture

In another small bowl, combine the remaining melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Brush this delicious mixture generously over the top and sides of your rolls using a pastry brush. This will make your sliders golden brown and extra tasty!

Step 6: Bake Away

Cover your dish loosely with foil and place it in the oven for about 20 minutes. After that time has passed, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes until they’re golden brown and bubbly. Let them sit for about five minutes before slicing apart—this helps keep everything nice and intact when serving.

Enjoy every scrumptious bite of your homemade Cuban Sliders! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Making Cuban sliders can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your sliders to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rolls, high-quality cheese, and fresh pickles make a significant difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste of your sliders.

• Don’t skip the butter mixture: Brushing the butter mixture on top of the rolls adds richness and a beautiful golden color. This step ensures that your sliders are flavorful and visually appealing when served.

• Let them rest before slicing: Allowing the sliders to cool for a few minutes after baking helps them set. This makes it easier to slice without losing all of the delicious fillings.

• Experiment with proteins: Feel free to mix up the fillings! You could use turkey or even grilled vegetables for a delightful twist. This flexibility allows you to cater to different tastes while keeping preparation easy.

• Make ahead of time: You can prepare your sliders a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect for parties or busy weeknights!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders are not just tasty; they’re also visually appealing and versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to present your delicious creation beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who like a bit of heat, adding jalapeño slices on top can provide an exciting kick that complements the richness of the sliders.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries with a hint of seasoning are a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of the sliders. They add a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the salty ham and cheese.

• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette offers crunch and tanginess that balances out the richness of the sliders perfectly.

• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob drizzled with lime juice and sprinkled with chili powder brings a sweet and spicy element that complements Cuban flavors beautifully.

• Mixed green salad: A light mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette offers freshness and crunch, making it an excellent accompaniment that rounds out your meal nicely.

Enjoy assembling your meal! Your guests will surely appreciate these thoughtful touches along with their Cuban sliders.

Make Ahead and Storage

Cuban Sliders are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily prepare them in advance, ensuring that deliciousness is just a few steps away at any time.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain optimum freshness, try to keep the layers intact until ready to serve.

Freezing

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, label the bags with the date so you can keep track of storage time.

Reheating

• Thaw sliders overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and cheese is melty.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cuban Sliders.

Can I use different types of cheese for Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with provolone or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare Cuban Sliders by assembling all ingredients except for the butter topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the butter mixture right before baking!

Are there any substitutions for chicken chicken ham in Cuban Sliders?

Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute turkey ham or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist while keeping those flavors intact.

What makes Cuban Sliders special?

Cuban Sliders are not just about taste—they’re about bringing people together around delicious food. The combination of savory meats, melted cheese, and zesty pickles creates a delightful experience that’s hard to resist.

Can I customize my Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños for heat or avocado slices for creaminess. The beauty of these sliders lies in their versatility!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Cuban Sliders as much as I do! They are an easy yet impressive dish that brings comfort and smiles around the table. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on a cozy night in, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite!