Cuban Sliders

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! These Cuban Sliders are a delightful twist on classic flavors, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. They’re not only incredibly easy to whip up but also make for an impressive appetizer at parties or a fun family dinner on busy weeknights. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll see why this recipe is a favorite in my home!

What makes these sliders truly special is their irresistible combination of gooey Swiss cheese, tender pulled beef, savory chicken chicken ham, and crunchy pickles. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family gathering, these sliders are sure to be the star of the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly: With such a tasty mix of flavors, even picky eaters will love these Cuban Sliders!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these sliders ahead of time and bake them just before serving, saving you stress when guests arrive.
• Versatile: Great for appetizers or as part of a meal, they fit right in at any gathering.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of beef, chicken chicken ham, and Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun! For these Cuban Sliders, you’ll need everything from sweet Hawaiian rolls to savory cheeses. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:

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)

For the Topping

• 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 (see note 2)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize these sliders to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or roast beef instead of pulled beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Include jalapeño slices or pepper jack cheese if you like a little kick!
• Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a fresh twist.
• Change the cheese: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique taste.

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your sliders bake evenly. While it heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking spray to keep things from sticking later.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Unwrap those soft Hawaiian rolls and slice them horizontally all at once. Keeping them connected allows for easy layering later! Place the bottom half in your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of melted (but slightly cooled) butter. Mixing until smooth helps distribute those flavors throughout your sliders. Spread half over the bottom rolls and save the rest for later!

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now it’s time to build your sliders! Start by laying half of the Swiss cheese slices on the bottom rolls. Then add that delicious chicken chicken ham followed by pulled beef and pickle chips. Top everything off with the remaining Swiss cheese—this creates that cheesy goodness we all crave!

Step 5: Brush with Flavor

In another bowl, mix together melted butter with minced garlic, minced onion, poppy seeds, and flaky sea salt. Brush this heavenly mixture over the top and sides of your assembled sliders; it adds so much flavor and aroma!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover your dish loosely with foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until those rolls are golden brown and irresistible! Once they’re done baking, let them sit for about 5 minutes before slicing them apart.

And there you have it—your very own Cuban Sliders ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cuban Sliders

Making Cuban sliders is a fun and rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Rolls: Starting with fresh Hawaiian rolls makes all the difference. Their softness and sweetness complement the savory fillings beautifully.

• Layer Wisely: When layering your ingredients, aim for even distribution. This ensures every slider has a balanced mix of flavors in each bite.

• Don’t Skip the Butter: Brushing the tops of the rolls with seasoned melted butter adds richness and helps achieve that golden-brown finish. It also enhances flavor, making each bite irresistible.

• Let Them Rest: Allowing the sliders to rest for a few minutes after baking helps them hold together better when you slice them. This prevents any messy tearing and keeps the fillings intact.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! You can add roasted vegetables or swap out the meats to suit your taste. The versatility of sliders means you can customize them however you like!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

These Cuban sliders make for an impressive dish whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top right before serving for a pop of freshness.
• Sliced jalapeños: Add a spicy kick by placing sliced jalapeños beside the sliders for those who enjoy some heat.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, sweet potato fries provide a delicious contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the savory elements, enhancing each bite with its refreshing taste.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness and acidity that pairs well with the richness of the sliders, making it a perfect side option.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob offers a classic summer side that complements any slider meal beautifully, adding a touch of sweetness to your plate.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an enjoyable dining experience that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your delicious Cuban sliders!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cuban Sliders are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week without the fuss!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen sliders overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through and cheese is melty.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Cuban Sliders:

Can I make Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to the baking step, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust your baking time accordingly if they’re cold from the fridge!

What can I substitute for Swiss cheese in Cuban Sliders?

If Swiss cheese isn’t your favorite, feel free to use provolone or mozzarella as a flavorful alternative that melts beautifully.

Can I use a different type of bread for Cuban Sliders?

Of course! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you could try using slider buns or any soft dinner rolls that suit your taste.

Are Cuban Sliders suitable for large gatherings?

Definitely! These sliders are crowd-pleasers and can be easily multiplied to feed a larger group. Just remember to keep an eye on baking times if you’re making multiple trays.

Final Thoughts

Cuban Sliders bring together a delightful mix of flavors and textures that is sure to impress friends and family alike. They are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile—perfect for any occasion! I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to invite others into your kitchen for a fun cooking session, and happy eating!