If you’re hunting for a crowd-pleaser that packs rich flavors into perfectly sized bites, the Cuban Sliders Sandwiches Recipe is an absolute must-try. These sliders deliver all the heart and soul of a classic Cuban sandwich, featuring succulent slow-cooked pork, tangy pickles, melty Swiss cheese, and a zesty spread—all nestled inside soft slider buns. This recipe transforms familiar Cuban tastes into a fun, shareable treat that’s fantastic for parties, game days, or simply elevating your dinner routine with something special and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cuban Sliders Sandwiches Recipe comes alive with simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender pork shoulder building deep flavor, to the bright vinegar and spices that add a tangy kick, and the creamy spread that ties it all together.
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder: The star ingredient providing juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork texture.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the cooking liquid.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory notes to heighten the flavor profile.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the pork moist while cooking, enriching the sauce.
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: Gives a bright acidity that balances richness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Injects a touch of sweetness to complement the vinegar’s tang.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the pork to create a flavorful crust.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy, warm spice that’s crucial for authentic taste.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Brings smoky depth without needing a grill.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor throughout.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion’s savoriness subtly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a touch of herbal aroma that complements the pork.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little heat if you like extra kick.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 12 slider buns: Perfectly sized to hold all the juicy, flavorful fillings.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Base of the tangy spread to keep sliders moist and creamy.
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard: Adds sharpness to the sauce for a classic Cuban flavor.
- 1/4 cup dill pickle relish: Brings crunch and sweet-tart contrast to the topping.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion: Adds fresh bite and texture at the top.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully over the pork for rich, gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced dill pickles: The iconic pickle slices that provide that needed zing.
How to Make Cuban Sliders Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Season and Brown the Pork
Start by patting your pork shoulder dry to help the seasoning stick better. Then, generously coat it with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and optional cayenne for a bit of heat. Heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven, brown the pork on all sides for that crave-worthy crust that will lock in juices and add layers of flavor to each bite.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic for Depth
After removing the pork from the pot, toss in the chopped onions and cook them until soft and fragrant, about five minutes. Add the minced garlic last and sauté for a shorter time so it becomes aromatic without burning—this step boosts the savory foundation of your sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Pork to Tender Perfection
Return the browned pork to the pot, then pour in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar for moisture and tanginess. Stir in brown sugar to balance the acidity and bring a subtle sweetness. Cover and transfer to the oven at 325°F, letting the pork slowly cook for 4 to 5 hours—this low-and-slow method transforms the meat into tender shreds, soaking up all those delicious spices and liquids.
Step 4: Shred and Combine
Once your oven timer dings, let the pork rest for 15 minutes. Then, using two forks, shred it carefully, setting aside any large fat pieces. Mix the shredded pork back into the flavorful cooking liquid, adjusting moisture to your preferred consistency. This step ensures every bite is luscious and juicy.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce and Assemble the Sliders
While the pork finishes, lightly toast your slider buns to add a bit of crunch and prevent sogginess. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and dill pickle relish for a tangy spread that’ll perfectly complement the rich pork. Spread this mixture generously on the bottom halves of the buns.
Step 6: Layer the Fillings
Top the sauced buns with a good portion of pulled pork—don’t overload or the slider won’t hold together well. Next, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese so it can slowly melt atop the warm meat. Add thin slices of dill pickles for crunch and zing, then finish with a scattering of finely chopped white onion before placing the top bun halves in place.
How to Serve Cuban Sliders Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Cuban sliders from delicious to dazzling at the table, consider a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a few extra dill pickle slices on the side. These simple garnishes freshen the palate and enhance visual appeal, making the sliders even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Classic Cuban sides like crispy plantain chips or a light black bean salad pair beautifully with these sliders. The chips offer texture contrast while the black beans bring hearty, savory notes that balance the sliders’ richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Cuban sliders on a rustic wooden platter with colorful toothpicks or mini flags for easy grabbing. Another fun idea is to offer a small selection of dipping sauces like a spicy aioli or garlic mojo alongside for guests to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sliders or pulled pork, store them separately in airtight containers. The pork will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, maintaining its juicy texture and flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the shredded pork in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Slider buns freeze well too if kept in a sealed bag, although fresh buns always taste best.
Reheating
When reheating the pork, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to revive moisture. Assemble the sliders fresh to keep the buns from becoming soggy, and toast the buns again if desired for that freshly-made feel.
FAQs
Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven for this Cuban Sliders Sandwiches Recipe?
Absolutely! Browning the pork first is still ideal, but then transfer it along with the other ingredients to a slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours. This method makes your home smell incredible and yields the same tender results.
What type of pork is best for these sliders?
Boneless pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is perfect because its marbling renders down during slow cooking, making the meat juicy and easy to shred.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for the pulled pork?
While classic Cuban sliders center on pork, you can try shredded jackfruit seasoned and cooked with similar spices for a plant-based alternative that mimics the texture and flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The cayenne pepper is optional and used sparingly; you can easily omit it for a mild flavor or increase slightly if you love some heat.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the mayo, mustard, and pickle relish sauce can be mixed a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, which actually helps the flavors meld beautifully for your sliders.
Final Thoughts
This Cuban Sliders Sandwiches Recipe is one of those rare gems that manages to be both comforting and festive. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a weeknight treat, the incredible medley of flavors and textures makes every bite memorable. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients, take your time with the slow-cooked pork, and enjoy the joyful experience of sharing this delicious sandwich with your favorite people.
Print
Cuban Sliders Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Cuban Sliders Sandwiches are flavorful bite-sized sandwiches featuring tender, slow-baked pulled pork shoulder seasoned with a blend of spices, served on slider buns with a tangy mayo-mustard relish sauce, Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and fresh onion. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these sliders offer a delicious taste of classic Cuban flavors in a convenient, handheld form.
Ingredients
Pork and Seasonings
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Slider Assembly
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup dill pickle relish
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced dill pickles
Instructions
- Prepare Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to ensure deep flavor penetration.
- Brown Pork: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total, to develop a caramelized crust and enhance flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Remove the pork from the pot. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release their aromas.
- Add Liquids and Sugar: Return the pork to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, and stir in the brown sugar for balanced sweetness and acidity.
- Bake Pork: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and shreds easily. Add more liquid as needed to keep the pork moist.
- Rest Pork: Remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for 15 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Shred Pork: Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large fat pieces for a leaner texture.
- Mix Pork with Juices: Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir well to combine with the cooking liquid. Adjust the amount of liquid to reach your desired moistness.
- Toast Buns (optional): Lightly toast the slider buns to add texture and prevent sogginess.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and dill pickle relish to create a tangy spread for the sliders.
- Spread Sauce: Generously spread the prepared sauce on the bottom halves of the slider buns.
- Add Pulled Pork: Top the sauce with a moderate amount of shredded pork, making sure not to overload the bun to keep sandwiches manageable.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the pulled pork to add creamy, nutty flavor.
- Add Pickles: Layer thinly sliced dill pickles on top of the cheese for a crisp and tangy bite.
- Add Onions: Scatter finely chopped white onions over the pickles to add a fresh, sharp contrast.
- Assemble Slider: Place the top halves of the slider buns over the fillings.
- Serve: Serve the Cuban sliders immediately to enjoy at their freshest with warm pork and melty cheese.
Notes
- You can prepare the pork a day ahead and refrigerate to develop deeper flavors.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount or omit it depending on desired spice level.
- Serve with a side of plantain chips or sweet potato fries for a complete Cuban-inspired meal.
- To keep sliders warm for serving a crowd, place assembled sliders in a low oven (about 200°F/93°C) covered with foil.
- Use a Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot for best slow-baking results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 0 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cuban
