Classic Cuban pressed sandwich with roast pork and ham
Pressed Cubano Sandwich
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
8 min
Total Time
18 min
Servings
2
2 sandwiches
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Moderate
$$
Pressed Cubano Sandwich
Classic Cuban pressed sandwich with roast pork and ham
★4.7(18)
A pressed Cuban sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crusty bread, griddled until crispy and melty.
10m
Prep Time
8m
Cook Time
18m
Total Time
2
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Moderate $$
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
The Cubano is a masterpiece of contrasts—crispy pressed bread, melty cheese, savory meats, and tangy pickles. Pressing it in a hot skillet is the key to perfection.
This recipe has been tested and refined to ensure reliable, delicious results every time you make it. Follow the steps carefully and you will be rewarded with something truly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 8 oz roast pork, sliced thin
- 4 oz sliced ham
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 Cuban bread or soft sub roll, split
- Dill pickle slices
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard and 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- 1
Split the bread and spread mustard on both cut sides.
- 2
Layer Swiss cheese, ham, roast pork, pickles, and another layer of Swiss cheese.
- 3
Close the sandwich and butter the outside of the bread.
- 4
Cook in a skillet over medium heat, pressing down firmly with another heavy pan, for 3-4 minutes per side.
- 5
Slice diagonally and serve hot while the cheese is still melty.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal
Pair with your favorite grain or bread on the side
Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation
Substitutions
Cuban breadCiabatta or soft hoagie roll
Closest substitute for texture
Roast porkPulled pork
Equally authentic and even more flavorful
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Use leftover slow-cooker pulled pork for the roast pork layer.
A panini press or waffle iron works perfectly for pressing.
Authentic Cubanos use only mustard—no mayo.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Stovetop reheating over medium-low heat is also effective.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (85mg) · 2 servings
Calories620
LowModerateHigh
A hearty, energy-rich serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein38g
Carbohydrates30g
Fat44g
Fiber1100mg
Sugar1g
Sodium4g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Cuban bread?
- A soft, slightly sweet white bread. Substitute with a soft sub roll or ciabatta.
- Can I add other meats?
- Traditionally it is just pork and ham, but salami is added in a Tampa-style Cuban.
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About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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