Cuban Sliders

Cuban Sliders are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of savory meats and melty cheese, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy family dinner. With their easy preparation and irresistible taste, they are sure to impress everyone around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: The preparation comes together quickly and requires minimal cooking skills.
• Packed with flavor: A combination of tender beef, savory chicken chicken ham, and gooey Swiss cheese creates a flavor explosion.
• Perfect for gatherings: Ideal as an appetizer or main dish for parties, these sliders are small but satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Make ahead option: Prepare them in advance and bake right before serving for fresh, warm sliders.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Cuban Sliders even easier. Gather these essentials to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Serrated knife
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve your sliders straight from the oven.
• Serrated knife: This tool allows you to slice through the Hawaiian rolls without squishing them, keeping the shape intact.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for applying butter mixtures evenly over the rolls for that golden finish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Cuban Sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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
• 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

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Unwrap the rolls. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice horizontally through all the rolls in one go while keeping them connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Mix Sauces

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 sauce over the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish. Use the remaining sauce on the cut side of the top half of the rolls.

Step 4: Layer Ingredients

Layer half of the Swiss cheese slices on top of the bottom rolls. Add a layer of chicken chicken ham followed by pulled beef and pickles. Top with remaining Swiss cheese slices, pressing down gently for an even layer. Bake without top rolls for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Butter Mixture

In another small bowl, mix remaining 5 tablespoons of melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Brush this mixture over the top and sides of the rolls using a pastry brush.

Step 6: Bake Sliders

Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted. Once done, let stand for about 5 minutes before slicing apart with a sharp knife.

Enjoy your homemade Cuban Sliders!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders are a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. Their small size makes them perfect for parties, and they can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and appeal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Mustard Dip: A tangy mustard dip complements the flavors of the sliders perfectly.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli will add an extra layer of richness to each bite.

Accompanied by Fresh Salads

• Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw balances the softness of the sliders.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast with its crisp texture.

On a Platter

• Slider Platter: Arrange the sliders on a decorative platter with toothpicks for easy serving at gatherings or parties.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Top the sliders with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Perfect Cuban Sliders

Making the best Cuban sliders requires attention to detail and some simple techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your slider game:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ingredients like high-quality Swiss cheese and freshly baked rolls for maximum flavor.
• Layer Wisely: Ensure that you layer your ingredients properly to avoid soggy bottoms and uneven distribution of flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak seasoning levels according to your taste preferences, especially the garlic and onion.
• Monitor Baking Times: Keep an eye on your sliders while they bake; every oven is different, so adjust cooking times as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders pair wonderfully with several side dishes that accentuate their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness and crunch.
2. Potato Chips: Classic salty potato chips provide a satisfying crunch alongside the tender sliders.
3. Vegetable Platter: An assortment of fresh veggies with hummus offers a healthy and crunchy counterpart.
4. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad adds comfort and complements the savory sliders well.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a sweet touch that pairs nicely with hearty flavors.
6. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans add depth and a slightly sweet flavor that works wonderfully with meat-based sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cuban Sliders is straightforward, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent heat throughout the baking process.

• Overstuffing the Rolls: Adding too much filling can cause the sliders to spill over and become messy. Stick to the recommended amounts for each layer to keep everything intact.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cheese and meats can prevent proper melting and blending of flavors. Let them sit at room temperature for a bit before assembling the sliders.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly with garlic, onion, or salt can lead to bland sliders. Don’t skip any of the seasoning ingredients listed in the recipe.

• Skipping Rest Time: Cutting into the sliders immediately after baking can lead to a messy situation. Allow them to rest for a few minutes to help everything settle.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cuban Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cuban Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place sliders on a baking sheet, and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cuban Sliders?

Cuban Sliders are small sandwiches made with layers of flavorful ingredients such as pulled beef, chicken ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles on sweet dinner rolls.

Can I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them perfect for parties!

What is the best way to serve Cuban Sliders?

Serve Cuban Sliders warm right out of the oven. They pair well with sides like chips or a salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize my Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out ingredients or add extras like spicy mustard or other toppings according to your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my Cuban Sliders stay fresh?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume within a few days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cuban Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make an excellent appetizer or main dish that everyone will love. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fillings or toppings for an even more personalized touch!