Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender shredded pork, smoky ham, melted Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and mustard, all pressed inside buttery Cuban bread. This easy crockpot version lets the pork cook low and slow until it’s perfectly juicy, giving you authentic Cuban flavors without the fuss. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or game day, this sandwich is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)
- 6 Cuban bread loaves (or sub rolls)
- 6 slices deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup sliced dill pickles
- 2 tbsp butter, softened (for grilling)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
- Place pork shoulder in the slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over the pork.
Step 2: Cook the Pork
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours until pork is fork-tender. Shred with two forks and mix with juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
- Slice Cuban bread or sub rolls in half. Spread mustard evenly on each side.
Step 4: Layer the Sandwich
- Place shredded pork on the bottom half of the bread. Add a slice of ham, Swiss cheese, and a few pickle slices. Top with the other half of the bread.
Step 5: Press the Sandwich
- Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Spread butter on the outside of the sandwich and press until golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice sandwiches in half and serve warm.
Variation
- Spicy Cuban Sandwich: Add jalapeños or spicy mustard.
- Turkey Cuban: Swap ham with smoked turkey for a lighter option.
- Cheesy Twist: Use provolone or pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss.
- Mini Cubanos: Make smaller sandwiches using slider buns for parties.
Cooking Notes
- Cuban bread works best, but French bread or hoagie rolls can be used.
- A cast-iron skillet with a heavy pan on top can substitute for a panini press.
- The pork can be made a day ahead and reheated for quick sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with plantain chips or fries.
- Add a side of black beans and rice for a traditional Cuban meal.
- Pair with a fresh mojito or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
Tips
- Toast both sides of the bread for extra crunch.
- Don’t skip the mustard—it adds the authentic Cuban sandwich flavor.
- Make extra pork; it can be used for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.
- Keep sandwiches warm in the oven if making for a crowd.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8–10 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 980mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I use leftover roast pork?
- Yes! Leftover pork roast or pulled pork can be used to make Cuban sandwiches quickly.
Q2: What if I don’t have Cuban bread?
- French or Italian bread, or hoagie rolls, are great substitutes.
Q3: Can I make Cuban sandwiches ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate. Grill or press just before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze the pork?
- Yes. Shredded pork freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before using.
Q5: What cheese is best for Cuban sandwiches?
- Swiss cheese is traditional, but provolone or mozzarella work too.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Cuban tradition right to your kitchen. With juicy shredded pork, smoky ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard layered in warm, buttery bread, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether for family meals, gatherings, or game-day snacks, this recipe guarantees comfort and bold flavor in every bite.