The Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Classic Cubano at Home

Dive into the rich flavors of a true culinary classic with our authentic Cuban sandwich recipe! Also known as a Cubano, this iconic sandwich is a harmonious blend of tender roast pork, savory ham, gooey Swiss cheese, crisp pickles, and zesty mustard, all pressed between slices of perfectly toasted Cuban bread. This guide will walk you through every step to create a Cubano that transports your taste buds straight to the streets of Havana or the bustling cafes of Miami.

stacked Cuban Sandwich with layers of pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard — A perfectly stacked Cuban sandwich, showcasing its delicious layers.

Why This Cuban Sandwich Recipe Stands Out

The Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is far more than just a grilled ham and cheese. It’s a culinary legend, celebrated for its unique combination of flavors and textures. Originating in Cuba, possibly by the Taino tribe in the late 1800s, this sandwich made its way to Florida with Cuban immigrants, quickly gaining immense popularity in cities like Tampa and Miami. Its appeal has since spread worldwide, captivating sandwich lovers everywhere.

Our recipe ensures you achieve the ideal Cubano experience. We focus on the essential elements: soft yet crusty Cuban bread, generously layered with tangy mustard, slices of high-quality ham, creamy Swiss cheese, a generous scattering of dill pickles, and succulent, flavorful roast pork. The magic truly happens when it’s pressed in a panini maker or on a grill, transforming into a warm, melty masterpiece with a gloriously crisp, golden-brown exterior. This perfect balance of savory meats, sharp cheese, bright pickles, and tangy mustard, all encased in a toasted crust, is precisely why this sandwich has garnered such a loyal following.

basket of freshly made Cuban Sandwiches, ready to be served — A basket of delicious Cubano sandwiches, freshly pressed and cut.

Essential Ingredients for Your Classic Cubano

Crafting the perfect Cuban sandwich begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that signature Cubano flavor profile. You’ll find precise measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, but let’s explore the stars of the show first.

ingredients for making a Cuban Sandwich laid out on a table — All the delicious ingredients you’ll need for your homemade Cubano.

Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitution Suggestions

Understanding each ingredient and its role is key to mastering the Cuban sandwich. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how to make smart substitutions if necessary:

Cuban Bread

The Foundation: To maintain the classic integrity of a Cubano, authentic Cuban bread is paramount. This hearty white bread is known for its distinctively crisp crust and soft, fluffy interior, which holds up beautifully under pressure. Its unique texture, often achieved by baking with a palmetto leaf in the oven, makes it ideal for pressing.

Substitutions: If traditional Cuban bread proves elusive in your local stores, don’t despair! Excellent alternatives include sturdy French bread or Italian bread. Look for loaves that are relatively dense and capable of becoming wonderfully crusty when pressed, yet remain soft inside to absorb the flavors.

Roast Pork

The Heart of the Sandwich: Traditionally, a Cubano features slow-roasted Mojo marinated pork shoulder, a labor of love that results in incredibly juicy and flavorful meat. This slow-cooked pork is often a highlight of Cuban cuisine.

Quicker Options & Leftovers: For a more time-efficient approach without compromising flavor, pork tenderloin is an excellent choice. It cooks much faster while still delivering a succulent texture. You can even prepare pork tenderloin in an air fryer for a quick and easy option. A Cuban sandwich is also the perfect vehicle for repurposing leftover roast pork from a previous dinner, ensuring no delicious morsel goes to waste.

Ham

Savory Complement: The ham adds another layer of salty, savory depth. You have a few options for deli ham, each bringing a slightly different nuance. Black Forest ham offers a smoky flavor, smoked ham provides a robust taste, and honey ham can introduce a subtle sweetness that balances the tang of other ingredients.

Thickness Matters: For the best texture and flavor, opt for thicker-sliced deli ham. This provides a more substantial bite and prevents the ham from getting lost among the other robust ingredients, ensuring it holds its own within the sandwich.

Swiss Cheese

The Creamy Factor: Classic Swiss cheese is a non-negotiable component. Its nutty, mild flavor perfectly complements the rich meats, and its exceptional melting properties create that desirable gooey center when pressed. The holes (eyes) in Swiss cheese are also a fun visual characteristic, though flavor is the primary reason for its inclusion.

Pickles

Tangy Crunch: Dill pickle rounds are essential for adding a bright, briny, and tangy counterpoint to the richness of the meats and cheese. Their crisp texture provides a much-needed crunch that elevates the entire sandwich experience. Don’t underestimate the power of a good pickle in a Cubano!

Yellow Mustard

Zesty Kick: A generous spread of classic yellow mustard provides the quintessential tangy and slightly spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients. It’s a simple addition that makes a significant difference, bringing all the flavors together in perfect harmony.

Butter (or Margarine)

Golden Finish: Brushing the exterior of the sandwich with melted butter (or margarine) before pressing is crucial for achieving that irresistible golden-brown, crispy crust. It also adds a subtle richness to the exterior.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Perfect Cuban Sandwich

These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For the complete printable version, including all measurements and instructions, scroll down to the Recipe Card at the bottom of this post.

Begin by preparing your Cuban bread (or chosen substitute). On one half of the bread, arrange half of the Swiss cheese slices, followed by half of the ham slices, and then a layer of pickle rounds. Repeat this layering process on the other half of the bread. This ensures a balanced distribution of flavors and ingredients throughout the sandwich.
Next, on one side of each sandwich, carefully place the thinly sliced cooked pork tenderloin. Make sure the pork is evenly distributed for a consistent bite in every part of the sandwich.
Spread a generous amount of yellow mustard directly onto the pork tenderloin. This allows the tangy mustard to meld with the rich pork as it cooks, enhancing the overall flavor.
Carefully bring the two halves of the sandwich together, pressing gently to form a complete Cubano.
Heat your panini press (or skillet/griddle). Brush the top and bottom exterior of the assembled sandwich with melted butter or margarine. This is key for achieving that beautiful golden-brown and crispy crust.
Place the buttered sandwich into the preheated panini press. Close the press firmly to flatten and cook the sandwich. Cook for several minutes, usually between 4-7 minutes, or until distinct grill marks appear on the bread, and the Swiss cheese inside is completely melted and gooey. The bread should be golden and crisp.
Once cooked to perfection, carefully remove the sandwich from the press. For a traditional presentation and easier eating, slice the Cuban sandwich diagonally before serving. Enjoy immediately!

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for the Best Cubano

Can I add salami to my Cuban sandwich?

Absolutely! While the classic Cuban sandwich often sticks to pork and ham, if you’re aiming for a “Tampa-style” Cubano, adding Genoa salami is a popular and delicious variation. Many believe the addition of salami is what truly distinguishes a Tampa Cubano from its Miami counterpart. Feel free to incorporate slices of salami while layering the other ingredients for an extra layer of savory flavor.

How can I make a Cuban sandwich without a panini press?

No panini press? No problem! You can still achieve a wonderfully pressed and toasted Cubano using a heavy-bottomed skillet or a griddle. Simply cook the sandwich on your griddle or in a large skillet over medium heat. To press it down, place another heavy pan (like a cast iron skillet) or a brick wrapped in foil on top of the sandwich. Apply firm, even pressure while it cooks. Flip the sandwich halfway through and press again until both sides are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is beautifully melted. The key is consistent heat and firm pressure.

What’s the best way to get crispy Cuban bread?

The secret to super crispy Cuban bread lies in a few factors: the quality of the bread itself, brushing it generously with melted butter or margarine, and applying consistent, even pressure during cooking. Ensure your panini press or skillet is adequately preheated, and don’t rush the process. A slow, steady press allows the bread to toast thoroughly and become perfectly golden and crunchy.

Can I prepare components of the Cuban sandwich in advance?

Yes, you can certainly prep ahead to make assembly quicker. The roast pork can be cooked and sliced in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also have your ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles ready. Assemble the sandwich just before pressing to ensure the freshest taste and best texture.

Are these sandwiches very filling?

Yes, Cuban sandwiches are traditionally very hearty and satisfying due to the generous layers of meat and cheese. This recipe makes a substantial sandwich, perfect for a fulfilling lunch or dinner. If you prefer a lighter option, feel free to adjust the quantities of pork, ham, and cheese to better suit your appetite.

baskets of Cuban Sandwiches, sliced and ready to serve — Serve these delicious Cubano sandwiches as a satisfying meal.

What to Serve with Your Cubano

A Cuban sandwich is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to complete the experience. Classic accompaniments include crispy potato chips or golden french fries, offering an additional satisfying crunch. For a more authentic touch, consider serving your Cubano with a side of savory black beans and rice, or a refreshing simple salad to balance the richness. Whatever you choose, prepare for a truly enjoyable and hearty meal!

More Delicious Sandwich Recipes to Try

If you love the satisfying experience of a well-made sandwich, here are some other fantastic recipes from our collection:

Classic Tuna Melt
Authentic Philly Cheesesteak
Hearty Reuben Sandwich
Savory Corned Beef Sandwich
Crispy Pork Tenderloin Sandwich (Schnitzel Style)
Decadent Monte Cristo Sandwich

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Cuban Sandwich Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of a Cuban sandwich! This recipe features classic Cuban bread, layered with zesty mustard, tender ham, melty Swiss cheese, crisp pickles, and flavorful cooked roast pork. It’s then pressed until golden and warm, creating a truly irresistible sandwich with a perfect crisp exterior and juicy, flavorful interior.

★★★★★

5 from 7 votes

IMPORTANT – Don’t forget to check the Frequently Asked Questions section above within the blog post for helpful tips!

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Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American, Cuban

Servings: 2 sandwiches

Total Time: 10 mins

Calories: 965

Author: Amanda Davis

Ingredients

4 slices Cuban bread (or two French loaf sandwich buns)
½ pound pork tenderloin, cooked and thinly sliced
8 slices deli ham (thick-sliced for best results)
8 slices Swiss cheese
16 pickle rounds (dill pickles recommended)
2 Tablespoons yellow mustard
1 Tablespoon butter or margarine, melted

Equipment You’ll Need

Panini press or a large, heavy-bottomed skillet/griddle with a second heavy pan to press.

Instructions

On both halves of your Cuban bread, layer the Swiss cheese, then the ham, and finally the pickle rounds.
On one side of each sandwich, evenly layer the pork tenderloin slices.
Spread yellow mustard directly onto the pork tenderloin layer.
Carefully bring the two prepared sides together to form the complete sandwich.
Preheat your panini press. Brush the top and bottom of the sandwich with melted butter. Place the sandwich in the panini press and cook until deep grill marks are visible and the cheese is fully melted. This typically takes 4-7 minutes depending on your press.
Remove the pressed Cuban sandwich, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Information

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Please note that recipes on this blog are typically tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. Oven performance can vary, especially with age, so an inexpensive oven thermometer can help ensure accurate temperatures. If using a toaster oven or countertop oven, adjustments to cooking and baking times may be necessary due to differing heat distribution. For appliance-specific recipes (pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker), links to our recommended appliances are included within each recipe. For baking recipes where ingredients are measured by weight, using cups instead may yield different results, and we cannot guarantee success with alternative measurement methods.