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Classic Cuban Sandwich

20 min
1040 kcal
4 servings

By eatmundo · July 5, 2026

Classic Cuban Sandwich🇺🇸AI-generated image

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

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Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Classic Cuban Sandwich. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Sandwich & wrap42 recipes from 11 countries

A 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.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Classic Cuban Sandwich from another cuisine is Strammer Max (Germany): the two share 57% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
4 servings

How 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. 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 roasted pork, thinly sliced and layered over the Swiss cheese.

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.

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