Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together, my Cuban Sliders are just the ticket! These little beauties are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Soft Hawaiian rolls filled with gooey Swiss cheese, tender pulled beef, savory chicken chicken ham, and crunchy pickles make them a crowd-pleaser every time. They’re small yet packed with big flavor, and believe me, one bite will have everyone asking for more!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. You can even prepare them ahead of time and bake them just before serving. So whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just want to treat your family to something special, these sliders will never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can have these sliders ready in no time.
• Perfect for sharing: Great for parties or family dinners; everyone loves sliders!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep them earlier in the day and pop them in the oven when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor combination: The mix of meat, cheese, and pickles creates an irresistible taste that will have you coming back for seconds.
• Kid-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will enjoy these flavorful bites!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to make our delicious 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)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

For the Topping

• 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

The beauty of Cuban Sliders lies in their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
• Change the cheese: Gouda or cheddar can add a delightful twist to the classic Swiss flavor.
• Add some heat: Spice things up by adding jalapeño slices or your favorite hot sauce.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with grilled mushrooms or eggplant for a delicious veggie version.

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures your sliders won’t stick while they bake.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Unwrap those lovely Hawaiian rolls! Using a sharp serrated knife, slice through all the rolls horizontally in one go—keeping them connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls into your prepared baking dish. This step is crucial as it sets up your slider foundation.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of melted (but slightly cooled) butter. Mix until smooth! Spread half of this tasty sauce over the bottom half of the rolls in your baking dish and reserve the rest for later.

Step 4: Layer Your Ingredients

Now onto layering! Start by placing half of the Swiss cheese slices on top of those sauced-up bottom rolls. Follow this with layers of chicken chicken ham, pulled beef, and then pickles. Top it all off with the remaining Swiss cheese and press down gently to create an even layer.

Step 5: Brush on That Flavorful Mixture

In another small bowl, mix together 5 tablespoons of melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and sea salt flakes. Brush this mixture generously over both the top and sides of your loaded rolls—this adds fantastic flavor!

Step 6: Bake Your Sliders

Cover your dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until those beautiful rolls are golden brown and the cheese has melted beautifully. Once done, let them sit for about 5 minutes before slicing apart—and voila! Serve promptly and enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Cuban Sliders are a delightful treat that can be made even better with a few expert tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rolls, high-quality cheese, and freshly cooked pulled beef will enhance the flavor and texture of your sliders. Fresh ingredients always make a difference in taste!

• Don’t rush the baking: Allowing the sliders to bake covered for the first 20 minutes ensures the heat circulates evenly, melting the cheese perfectly and keeping the rolls soft. Uncovering them at the end gives you that lovely golden finish.

• Customize your fillings: Feel free to experiment with different types of deli meats or even add some sautéed vegetables. This flexibility allows you to tailor the sliders to your personal taste preferences.

• Let them rest: After baking, letting the sliders sit for about 5 minutes before slicing helps maintain their structure and makes serving easier. It also lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Serve warm: These sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re gooey and warm. If you have leftovers, reheat them gently in the oven for that same delicious experience!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Serving Cuban Sliders is all about creating a fun and inviting atmosphere. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive gathering, these sliders can shine on any table!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the sliders.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who like a bit of heat, adding sliced pickled jalapeños can elevate the flavor profile and give your sliders an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Classic coleslaw: This crunchy side provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sliders. The tangy dressing brightens up every bite!
• Sweet potato fries: Their sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory flavors, and they add an extra layer of texture alongside your sliders.
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn makes for a fun finger food option that complements the Cuban theme while adding sweetness.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers balance to your meal and keeps things fresh without overshadowing those delicious sliders.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cuban Sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cuban Sliders are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Freezing

• Assemble the sliders without baking them and wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated sliders, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen sliders, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake from frozen for about 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cuban Sliders that you might find helpful!

Can I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the Cuban Sliders and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them.

What kind of cheese is best for Cuban Sliders?

Swiss cheese is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like provolone or mozzarella if you prefer!

How do I ensure my Cuban Sliders are crispy on top?

Brushing melted butter mixed with garlic and poppy seeds on top before baking gives a deliciously crispy finish!

Can I substitute different meats in my Cuban Sliders?

Yes! While this recipe calls for chicken ham and pulled beef, you can customize it with turkey, roast beef, or even vegetarian options like grilled veggies!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Cuban Sliders as much as I do! They’re a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, they’re bound to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your slider-making adventures!