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Cuban Sandwich - The Perfect Pressed Classic 1
Cuban Sandwich - The Perfect Pressed Classic

📆 December 10, 2025

Ayy the Cuban Sandwich! 🥪🔥

Layers of pork, ham, cheese, and pickles pressed into a golden crunchy masterpiece. It's salty, melty, juicy perfection in every bite. Cuban comfort food done RIGHT.

Here's how we build this beauty:

Ingredients

    Makes 2 Big Sandwiches

    Core Ingredients

  1. Cuban bread (or soft French bread)
  2. Roasted pork (or leftover pulled pork)
  3. Ham slices
  4. Swiss cheese slices
  5. Dill pickle slices
  6. Yellow mustard
  7. Butter (for grilling)
Equipment
  1. Panini press or skillet
  2. Heavy pan for pressing
  3. Knife + cutting board
  4. Brush or spoon for spreading butter

🥪 Tip: The Press Is EVERYTHING

A Cuban sandwich should be FLAT — pressing it fuses the cheese, pork, and bread into one melty crispy unit. No press? Use a skillet + something heavy (cast iron, weighted plate, etc.).

Step 1: Assemble the Layers

Build the inside:

  1. Slice Cuban bread lengthwise
  2. Spread a thin layer of mustard on both sides
  3. Add a layer of ham
  4. Top with roasted pork
  5. Add Swiss cheese slices
  6. Finish with dill pickles

Step 2: Butter It Up

  1. Spread butter generously on the OUTSIDE of the bread
  2. This is what makes it crisp and golden

Step 3: Press the Sandwich

Panini press method:

  1. Preheat to medium-high
  2. Press for 3–4 mins until the cheese is melted & crust is golden

Skillet method:

  1. Heat skillet over medium
  2. Place sandwich in pan
  3. Press with another heavy pan
  4. Cook 2–3 mins per side

Step 4: Slice & Serve Hot

  1. Let rest 1 minute
  2. Slice diagonally
  3. Serve while melty and crisp

Tips: For the Perfect Cubano

  • Don't skimp on the butter: That's the golden crisp magic.
  • Press firmly: A Cuban sandwich should NEVER be fluffy.
  • Leftover pork? Perfect excuse to make these.
  • Pickles bring brightness: Don't skip them!

Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Problem Cause Fix
Soggy bread Not enough pressing Press harder / longer
Cheese won't melt Heat too low Increase heat or press longer
Bread burning Too much butter or too hot pan Lower heat
Filling falling out Too many toppings Use thinner layers

Now you're ready to make a Cubano! 🥪🇨🇺