🇺🇸 USA · Food
Classic Cuban Sandwich
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
🇺🇸 USAI-generated imageA legendary pressed sandwich originating from the Cuban immigrant communities of Florida, specifically Tampa and Miami. It features a delicious combination of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all grilled to perfection on Cuban bread.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Slice a loaf of Cuban bread horizontally, but not all the way through, creating a "hinge." Spread yellow mustard generously on both inner sides of the bread.
- 2
Layer the ingredients in the following order: a few slices of Swiss cheese, roasted pork (thinly sliced), cured ham (thinly sliced), and dill pickle slices.
- 3
Close the sandwich and butter the top and bottom exterior of the bread.
- 4
Place the sandwich in a preheated sandwich press (or a griddle with a heavy pan on top) and press until the bread is golden brown and crispy, the cheese is melted, and the fillings are hot, about 5-7 minutes.
- 5
Remove from the press, cut diagonally, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cuban sandwich?+
A Cuban sandwich is a pressed ham and cheese sandwich originating from Cuban immigrant communities in Florida. It consists of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crusty bread, typically consumed as a hearty lunch or snack.
What kind of bread is essential for an authentic Classic Cuban Sandwich?+
Authentic Cuban sandwiches require a specific Cuban bread, which is a soft, white bread with a light, crisp crust, often made with a small amount of lard for tenderness. If unavailable, a crusty baguette or Italian bread can be a decent substitute.
What type of pork is best, and how should it be prepared for a Classic Cuban Sandwich?+
The best pork for a Cuban sandwich is slow-roasted, mojo-marinated pork shoulder (pernil). This ensures the meat is tender, flavorful, and easily shredded or sliced, providing the signature moistness.
How do I achieve the characteristic flat, crispy texture of a Classic Cuban Sandwich?+
To get that perfect pressed texture, the sandwich should be grilled in a panini press or a heavy cast-iron skillet, weighed down by another skillet or heavy object. Cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
Can I use different types of mustard or pickles, or are specific ones preferred for a Classic Cuban Sandwich?+
A classic Cuban sandwich traditionally uses plain yellow mustard and thinly sliced dill pickles, not sweet or bread-and-butter varieties. These provide the essential tangy contrast to the rich meats and cheese.
🇺🇸 USAI-generated imageMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Classic Cuban Sandwich's core ingredients.
