Save It Nothing hits comfort food cravings like the Cuban Sandwich Grilled Cheese. It takes everything rich and satisfying from a classic Cuban but streamlines it into a toasted gooey quick-fix meal. When I first mashed up these two classics for a lazy lunch the results were so crowd-pleasing it became our rainy day favorite.
The first time I made this my family could not stop raving about the crispy buttery crust and the melting cheese. Now I always keep the ingredients on hand for sudden cravings.
Ingredients
- Roasted pork thinly sliced: Choose pork with some fat for extra flavor and juiciness Try freshly roasted pork if you have leftovers or look for a good-quality deli roast pork
- Deli ham: Thinly sliced ham brings smoky saltiness Opt for ham with minimal additives for best results
- Swiss cheese: Slices melt evenly and bring creamy tangy richness Choose a brand that melts well avoid pre-shredded
- Dill pickle slices: Classic crisp and tangy pickles cut richness and bring a real Cuban sandwich bite Choose fresh crunchy pickles from the refrigerated aisle for the best texture
- Yellow mustard: Adds a sharp zesty layer to cut through the cheeses sweetness Go for traditional yellow mustard for that essential flavor
- Crusty white or Cuban bread: The foundation thick enough to hold fillings and get a golden crust Cuban bread if you can find it or a firm bakery white loaf
- Unsalted butter: Softened for easy spreading Using unsalted lets you control the saltiness throughout the sandwich
Instructions
- Preheat the Pan:
- Allow your skillet or griddle to fully preheat over medium heat for about 3 minutes. You want consistent heat for crispy bread without burning.
- Butter the Bread:
- Generously spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Make sure to fully cover to guarantee an even golden crust on grilling.
- Add the Mustard:
- Flip the slices buttered side down and spread one tablespoon of mustard over two slices. Cover edge to edge for best flavor in every bite.
- Build the Layers:
- On each mustard-coated slice add two slices of Swiss cheese first to act as a delicious glue. Top cheese with half the ham then half the roast pork then two pickle slices. These layers recreate the classic Cuban sandwich experience.
- Top and Assemble:
- Place the remaining bread slices on top of each stack buttered side facing out. Press gently to set the fillings.
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Place sandwiches onto the hot skillet. Use a spatula or another heavy pan to press down gently so all layers meld together and the crust gets crispy. Grill for three to four minutes per side until the bread is deeply golden and the cheese is oozing.
- Serve Hot:
- Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board slice in half while piping hot and serve them right away for maximum melt and crunch.
Save It I always reach for ultra-crunchy pickles here they wake up all the savory flavors. The best family memory is my kids’ eyes lighting up at their first gooey bite—now they beg for this on weekends.
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool completely wrap tightly in foil then refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet to restore the crispy crust and melted cheese. I do not recommend microwaving since it softens the bread but an oven toaster brings back the crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey for the pork for a lighter take. Smoked turkey also works if you avoid pork. Use gluten-free bread if needed and sub spicy brown mustard for extra kick. For low-sodium keep deli meats minimally processed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with plantain chips for a classic Miami touch or with a fresh side salad to balance all the richness. Sometimes I go the extra mile and serve with black bean soup when I want a full-on Cuban feast at home. Pickled red onions add a zesty pop if you want even more acid to cut through the gooey cheese.
Cultural and Historical Context
The Cuban sandwich was born from Cuban immigrant culture in Miami and Tampa and this grilled cheese keeps those roots alive but with a shortcut twist. In Cuba the sandwich is known as cubano but this version leans into the American grilled cheese tradition for a hybrid that feels both classic and new.
Seasonal Adaptations
Lighter summer version uses fresh tomatoes or mixed greens added after grilling Fall and winter warm up by pairing with a bowl of split pea or black bean soup For outdoor grilling swap the skillet for a panini press or grill pan in spring
Success Stories
Readers and friends share that this recipe saves the day when they have surprise guests or just need something cozy and quick after a long week. It is easy enough that my teens learned to make it themselves aging up our family lunch traditions.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Prepare sandwiches without grilling and freeze wrapped individually. Thaw overnight and grill directly from the fridge until crispy and hot. I always double the batch for unexpected hungry moments.
Save It Let every bite remind you why comfort food classics never go out of style. This Cuban grilled cheese always delivers a melty gooey experience you will crave again and again.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Swiss cheese is classic, but you can substitute with provolone or mozzarella for a slightly different taste and texture.
- → What type of bread works best?
Cuban bread offers authentic texture, but any crusty white bread delivers a crisp, golden result.
- → Is it necessary to press the sandwich?
Pressing helps achieve a crunchy exterior and melts cheese evenly. Use a spatula or heavy pan when grilling.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Replace pork and ham with grilled vegetables or a plant-based deli alternative for a vegetarian version.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
Plantain chips, light salads, or tropical fruit make excellent accompaniments, balancing the richness.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Sandwiches are best enjoyed freshly grilled but can be prepared, assembled, and refrigerated for grilling later.