Cuban-Style Sliders Recipe

Name: Cuban-Style Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 (12-oz.) pkg. Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 rolls); ½ cup honey mustard; 12 oz sliced deli ham; 6 oz sliced Swiss Cheese; ¾ cup dill pickle slices; 3 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 teaspoons poppy seeds; 12 cornichons

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 (12-oz.) package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 rolls)
1/2 cup honey mustard
12 ounces deli ham
6 ounces Swiss cheese
3/4 cup dill pickle slices
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
12 cornichons

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: Using a sharp knife, slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the rolls intact as one unit. Place the bottom halves of the rolls in a 2-quart rectangular baking dish.

Step 3: Spread honey mustard generously on the cut sides of both the roll bottoms and the tops.

Step 4: On the roll bottoms, layer the deli ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickle slices evenly.

Step 5: Place the roll tops over the filled bottoms to complete the sandwiches.

Step 6: Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds for extra flavor.

Step 7: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Step 8: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls are lightly browned and the filling is hot.

Step 9: Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 10: Carefully cut the sliders into individual portions. Attach a cornichon to the top of each slider using a toothpick for a finishing touch.

Variations

Cheesesteak Sliders

Filling: Spread 4 ounces of softened cream cheese on the cut sides of the roll bottoms.
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 sliced green bell pepper and 1 sliced yellow onion, cooking until tender and starting to brown, about 8 minutes.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Add 8 ounces of thinly sliced cooked top sirloin steak or deli roast beef, along with 1/2 cup of sliced pickled peppers (such as cherry peppers or peperoncini peppers).
Arrange the beef mixture over the cream cheese, then top with 4 ounces of sliced provolone cheese.
Topping: 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.

Meatless Buffalo Sliders

Filling: Spread 2/3 cup of creamy blue cheese dressing on the cut sides of both the roll bottoms and tops.
Prepare 2 (13.5-oz.) packages of frozen Buffalo-style cauliflower wings as per package directions.
Arrange the wings on the roll bottoms and top with 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion.
Topping: Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of celery seeds.
Extras: 1/2 cup of shredded carrot and 2 cups of shredded romaine lettuce.

Brie and Apple Sliders

Filling: Spread 1/3 cup of pecan butter or almond butter and 1/2 cup of apricot preserves on the cut sides of the roll bottoms.
Top with 8 ounces of thinly sliced Brie cheese and 1 thinly sliced Granny Smith apple.
Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper for a subtle kick.
Topping: 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary.

Breakfast Sliders

Filling: Cook 8 slices of coarsely chopped bacon in an extra-large skillet until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of grease from the skillet. In a large bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Add the egg mixture to the skillet and cook over medium heat. Stir the eggs gently until they are just cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes. The surface will still be moist.
Remove from heat and fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded white Cheddar cheese and the bacon.
Place the egg mixture on the roll bottoms.
Topping: 1 tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning.
Extras: 2 cups of packed baby spinach.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 256
Total Fat: 15g (19% DV)
Saturated Fat: 6g (31% DV)
Cholesterol: 51mg (17% DV)
Sodium: 640mg (28% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 20g (7% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
Total Sugars: 7g
Protein: 12g (23% DV)
Calcium: 163mg (13% DV)
Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
Potassium: 215mg (5% DV)

The History and Origins of Cuban-Style Sliders

The Cuban-style slider draws inspiration from the iconic Cuban sandwich, which originated in the early 20th century among Cuban immigrants in Florida, particularly in Tampa and Key West. These sandwiches were a convenient and affordable lunch option for workers in cigar factories, combining simple yet flavorful ingredients: roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread. Over time, the slider adaptation emerged as a smaller, party-friendly version of the traditional sandwich, perfect for gatherings and casual meals. Using Hawaiian rolls adds a subtly sweet contrast, creating a more modern twist on the classic Cuban flavors.

Regional Variations

While the traditional Cuban sandwich has its roots in Tampa and Miami, regional variations have developed throughout the United States. Tampa-style Cubans often include salami in addition to ham and pork, reflecting the influence of Italian immigrants in the area. Miami-style versions tend to stick closer to the original Cuban ingredients. Cuban-style sliders have adapted these variations, allowing home cooks to experiment with different types of mustard, bread, or pickles, while still preserving the essential savory-sweet balance that defines Cuban cuisine.

How Cuban-Style Sliders Differ from Similar Dishes

Cuban-style sliders stand apart from other small sandwiches like mini Reubens or Philly cheesesteak sliders due to their unique combination of ham, Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and honey mustard. Unlike a classic slider which might use beef or chicken as the main protein, the Cuban-style slider emphasizes cured meats and a balance of tangy and sweet flavors. The use of Hawaiian rolls instead of traditional Cuban bread gives them a softer, slightly sweeter texture, making them easier to serve in casual settings without losing the essence of the original sandwich.

Typical Occasions and Serving Suggestions

Cuban-style sliders are often served at social gatherings, game-day parties, and casual dinners. Their small size makes them ideal for buffets or hors doeuvres, and they are frequently accompanied by sides like plantain chips, coleslaw, or simple green salads. Some restaurants and cafes offer them as appetizers or snack-sized portions of their larger Cuban sandwiches. They are also popular at holiday parties and potlucks because they can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.

Interesting Facts About Cuban-Style Sliders

The Cuban sandwich, and by extension the slider version, was declared the official state sandwich of Florida in 2014.
The use of pickles in Cuban sandwiches dates back to early Cuban immigrants who wanted a tart counterpoint to rich meats and cheese.
Hawaiian rolls, though not traditional, became a popular choice in the U.S. for sliders because they hold together well and provide a subtly sweet contrast to savory fillings.
Modern variations of Cuban-style sliders may include creative toppings such as honey mustard, spicy mustard, or even sriracha mayo, showcasing the adaptability of this mini sandwich format.
Despite their small size, Cuban-style sliders maintain the essential layered structure of a traditional Cuban sandwich, making them a faithful yet convenient homage to the classic.

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FAQ about Cuban-Style Sliders Recipe

Leftover Cuban-style sliders should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the sliders in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Yes, you can freeze the sliders. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with other cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor profile. However, using a melt-friendly cheese is recommended for the best texture.

If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls, you can use other soft slider rolls, brioche rolls, or even dinner rolls. The key is to choose a sweet and soft roll that can hold up to the filling without becoming too soggy.

Yes, you can prepare the sliders ahead of time. Assemble them as directed, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. This is a great option for meal prepping or making ahead for parties.

You can customize the Cuban-Style Sliders by changing the protein or cheese. For example, try using roast beef or turkey instead of ham, or switch out the Swiss cheese for a sharper flavor like sharp cheddar. You can also add more veggies like caramelized onions or bell peppers.

If the bottom rolls become soggy, it could be due to excess moisture from the honey mustard or pickles. You can try using a thinner layer of mustard or patting the pickles dry before adding them to the rolls to prevent excess moisture buildup.

Yes, you can easily make your own honey mustard by mixing together equal parts honey and Dijon mustard. You can also add a small amount of mayo for creaminess or a dash of vinegar to balance the sweetness.

Comments

Sharon Thomas

07/05/2024 04:44:49 PM

I was tempted to try adding everything bagel seasoning on top of the roll instead of poppy seeds, but I decided to stick with the recipe. While honey mustard isn't a typical Cuban sandwich ingredient, it surprisingly complemented the slider well. Opting for brioche rolls over Hawaiian rolls was a good call to balance the sweetness with the mustard. These sliders offered a unique twist compared to traditional Cubans, which was refreshing. They were a hit with us, and I can see them being a crowd-pleaser for game day, especially as the Final Four approaches. I'll definitely be making these again soon!

Julie Miller

02/01/2023 11:13:00 AM

Here's the rewritten review: For my homemade sliders, I whipped up a delicious honey mustard sauce using honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of mayo. I improvised with spicy baby dill pickles since they were the only ones I had on hand. With some leftover honey mustard, I mixed it with melted butter and poppy seeds for a simple brushing sauce. Although I didn't have Swiss cheese, the Vermont sharp white cheddar worked wonderfully. The sliders turned out fantastic, but the most challenging part was waiting for them to cool before serving. I would definitely make these again, but next time, I'd opt for smoked sliced ham instead of deli ham and perhaps use coarse or spicy brown mustard in place of Dijon. While the spicy pickles were enjoyable, I discovered that I prefer my pickles cold rather than hot.

Justin Lopez

10/29/2024 10:14:32 PM

I decided to try out two variations of this recipe: half Cubans following the original recipe, and half Philly Cheesesteak. The Cuban version turned out great when made as instructed, just halving the ingredients. For the Philly version, I used a red bell pepper instead of green and felt it could use a bit more seasoning - maybe more Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper, or a sprinkle of steak seasoning. Some people even added Heinz 57 to their sliders for extra flavor. While neither version is truly "authentic," this recipe was a blast to make and enjoy! It's also incredibly simple to put together. Thanks for sharing such a fun recipe!

Donald Flores

04/05/2023 08:14:36 AM

This sandwich is definitely among my top favorites. It's always a big hit with everyone at home!

Julie Lee

09/21/2022 03:27:36 PM

Fantastic, I would definitely remake it!

Helen Parker

07/17/2023 03:41:33 PM

This sandwich is decent, albeit quite simple. My only complaint was that the bottom rolls turned out soggy. In the future, I might skip spreading honey mustard on the bottom rolls to prevent this issue.

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Cuban-Style Sliders Recipe

Ingredients

Directions