Cuban Sliders with Pulled Pork

These Cuban sliders bring the classic flavors of a Cuban sandwich into a fun, handheld form perfect for gatherings or easy weeknight dinners. Layers of Swiss cheese, ham, pulled pork, and dill pickles meld with tangy mustard and creamy mayo, all sandwiched between soft Hawaiian rolls. This recipe makes a crowd-pleasing dish that is both comforting and full of bold, savory flavor.

I remember making these sliders for a family picnic and watching everyone go back for seconds without a single complaint—they quickly became one of my go-to recipes when I want something easy but impressive.

Ingredients

• Hawaiian slider rolls: soft and slightly sweet to complement the savory fillings
• Yellow mustard: adds a tangy kick that brightens the flavors and choose a smooth variety for easy spreading
• Mayonnaise: brings creaminess and balances the mustard’s acidity
• Swiss cheese: melts beautifully and offers a mild nutty flavor that pairs well with the pork and ham
• Deli ham: thinly sliced for delicate taste and texture contrast
• Cooked pulled pork: tender and flavorful, about one pound gives a generous filling layer
• Dill pickle chips: provide acidity and crunch to cut through the richness
• Butter: for brushing the tops, helping achieve a golden and slightly crispy crust
• Poppy seeds: add a subtle nutty note and attractive finish and fresh seeds work best

Instructions

Slicing and Toasting the Rolls:

Carefully slice the slider rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact. Arrange the bottom halves cut side up on a sheet pan and toast them under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step brings out a light crunch and prevents sogginess later. Remove the toasted pieces and set aside.

Preparing the Casserole Dish and Mustard Spread:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Place the toasted bottom halves of the rolls snugly in the casserole dish. In a small bowl, mix together the yellow mustard and mayonnaise until smooth. Spread half of this mixture evenly over the bottom rolls for a flavorful base layer.

Layering the Cheese, Meats, and Pickles:

Place half of the Swiss cheese slices over the mustard-coated rolls, slightly overlapping to cover them completely. Add the folded ham slices on top, then pile on the pulled pork evenly. Arrange a single layer of dill pickle chips over the pulled pork to bring a crisp, tangy contrast. Top this with the remaining Swiss cheese slices, gently pressing down to even out the layers.

Initial Baking:

Bake the assembled bottom layers uncovered in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to start melting and the flavors to meld.

Adding the Top Rolls and Finishing Touches:

Spread the remaining mustard and mayonnaise mixture on the cut side of the toasted top rolls. Carefully place the tops over the melted cheese layer. Brush the top rolls liberally with melted butter and sprinkle generously with poppy seeds for an appealing look and subtle flavor.

Final Baking:

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake until the cheese is fully melted and the sliders are heated through, about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 5 to 8 minutes so the tops turn golden brown and slightly crisp.

Serving:

Serve the sliders warm, pulling them apart individually so everyone gets to enjoy the melty cheese and savory layers at their best.

Swiss cheese is my favorite part—its meltability and mild flavor balance the smoky pork and tangy pickles perfectly. I recall one family game night when these sliders disappeared so fast that I had to make more on the spot. It just goes to show how well they bring people together around the table.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently covered with foil in the oven to keep the slider tops from drying out. These also freeze well individually wrapped if you want meal prep options.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try smoked gouda or provolone instead of Swiss for a richer or slightly sharper taste. Use roasted pork shoulder if you prefer homemade pulled pork. For sandwich rolls, mini brioche buns work wonderfully if Hawaiian rolls aren’t available.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these sliders with a simple green salad or crispy sweet potato fries to round out the meal. A light beer or sparkling lemonade complements the bold flavors beautifully.

Master this recipe by layering thoughtfully and toasting carefully to enjoy an irresistible Cuban slider experience every time.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of rolls are best for Cuban sliders?

Hawaiian slider rolls work best due to their soft texture and slight sweetness, complementing the savory fillings.

→ Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours before baking and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

→ What is the purpose of poppy seeds on top?

Poppy seeds add a subtle crunch and a distinctive flavor contrast to the buttery toasted roll tops.

→ Is it necessary to toast the slider rolls before assembly?

Lightly toasting the rolls helps them hold up to the moist fillings and adds a golden, slightly crisp texture.

→ Can I substitute the pulled pork with another protein?

Yes, alternatives like shredded chicken or roast beef can also be used for similar layers of flavor and texture.