Sam There’s something unforgettable about the first bite of hot, pressed grilled Cuban sandwiches—especially when it’s grilled to golden perfection and filled with layers of juicy pork, smoky ham, tangy pickles, melted Swiss, and just the right amount of mustard. It’s one of those meals that turns a simple lunch into a mini escape, transporting your taste buds straight to a bustling Havana café or a sunny patio in Miami.
This sandwich has earned a special place in our kitchen. It’s become my go-to when I want to serve something that checks every box: flavorful, comforting, nostalgic, and just a little indulgent. The moment it hits the hot skillet, the buttery bread starts to sizzle, the cheese melts into the meat, and the aroma fills the room. It’s the kind of scent that draws a crowd—kids, partners, neighbors wandering over just to ask, “What smells so good?”
What makes this sandwich so crave-worthy is the harmony between the ingredients. The roast pork brings savory depth, the ham adds a smoky edge, the Swiss cheese melts into creamy perfection, and the pickles and mustard provide just the right pop of acidity to cut through the richness. Every bite delivers a contrast of textures: crunchy bread, gooey cheese, and tender meat. It’s deceptively simple—but the end result feels downright gourmet.
Whether we’re grilling outside for a Father’s Day feast or just throwing together an easy lunch inside, this sandwich never disappoints. And the best part? It’s endlessly adaptable. You can use leftover pork, spice things up with jalapeños, or go vegetarian with grilled mushrooms and melty plant-based cheese. However you make it, this sandwich delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
If you love flavor-packed handheld meals that feel gourmet without the work, check out my Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches or Cajun Chicken Pasta Salad. You can also browse our Lunch Recipes for more no-fuss meals that hit the spot.
Grilled Cuban Sandwiches – Pork, Ham & Melty Swiss
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Cuban bread or Italian baguette halved
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 lb roast pork thinly sliced
- ½ lb deli ham sliced thin
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- ½ cup dill pickles sliced
Instructions
- Prep the Bread: Slice the loaf lengthwise and spread softened butter on the outer sides. Then spread mustard on the inside of both halves.
- Assemble the Layers:Start with a layer of Swiss cheese, then add ham, roast pork, pickles, and finish with another layer of cheese. Close the sandwich.
- Grill and Press: Heat a cast iron skillet or panini press over medium heat. Place the sandwich on and weigh it down with a second skillet or foil-wrapped brick. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Serve:Let it rest for a minute, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
Secret Tips for Grilled Cuban Sandwiches
1. Use a flavor-packed pork marinade before roasting If you’re roasting your own pork, marinate it overnight with garlic, orange juice, cumin, oregano, and olive oil for authentic Cuban mojo flavor. It gives the pork a citrusy, garlicky depth that elevates the whole sandwich. 2. Layer cheese on both sides of the sandwich Putting Swiss cheese on both the top and bottom of the fillings acts as a “glue,” holding everything together and helping the sandwich stay intact when pressed. 3. Add a quick pickle brine rinse Rinse your dill pickle slices briefly in a splash of apple cider vinegar with a pinch of sugar for a 10-minute flavor boost. It adds brightness and crunch with a hint of sweetness. 4. Brush the outside with garlic butter Mix minced garlic into your butter before spreading it on the bread. It adds a subtle richness and an irresistible aroma when grilled. 5. Rest the sandwich after pressing Let it sit for 1–2 minutes before slicing. This allows the melted cheese to set slightly and keeps your fillings from sliding out when cut. 6. Slightly flatten the bread before building Lightly press the bread before assembling so it doesn’t puff up unevenly during grilling. It creates a more even toast and makes pressing easier. 7. Use a brick wrapped in foil for a true pressed Cuban feel If you don’t have a panini press, wrap a clean brick in foil and use it to press the sandwich firmly while grilling. It creates that signature crispy, compact finish. 8. Go low and slow on the heat Avoid high heat! Medium or medium-low heat ensures the bread gets golden without burning and allows the cheese to melt fully.Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Course: Lunch
- Cuisine: Cuban-American
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~620
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Budget Breakdown
- Cuban bread or baguette: ~$2.50
- Roast pork (1 lb): ~$5.00
- Deli ham (½ lb): ~$2.50
- Swiss cheese (8 slices): ~$3.00
- Dill pickles: ~$1.00
- Yellow mustard: ~$0.50
- Butter: ~$0.50
Total Cost: ~$15.00
Cost Per Serving: ~$3.75
Behind the Recipe
This sandwich became a staple in my kitchen after we had it at a small Cuban café during a family trip to Florida. The vibe was relaxed, the music was upbeat, and the sandwiches? Absolutely unforgettable. My husband still talks about it, and I’ve been recreating our version at home ever since.
I love that you don’t need to fuss to make it amazing. Use leftover roast pork from Sunday dinner, grab a few staples from the fridge, and you’ve got a hearty, crowd-pleasing lunch in under 30 minutes. Even without traditional Cuban bread, this works beautifully with a crusty baguette or soft Italian loaf.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Cuban Sandwich
- Crispy, golden grilled bread with melty cheese and juicy meats
- Quick to make with everyday ingredients
- A restaurant-style experience made easy at home
- Great for leftover pork and deli staples
- Perfect balance of salty, savory, tangy, and cheesy
- Easily customizable with spicy or vegetarian twists
- Works for lunch, picnics, casual celebrations, or weekend grilling
Perfect For
- Backyard Father’s Day lunches
- Pressed sandwich lovers
- Easy lunch ideas that feel gourmet
- Make-ahead meal planning
- Feeding a hungry crowd in 30 minutes or less
- Sandwich nights with a twist
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 loaf Cuban bread or Italian baguette, halved
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 lb roast pork, thinly sliced
- ½ lb deli ham, sliced thin
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- ½ cup dill pickles, sliced
Ingredient Highlights
- Roast Pork: Adds rich, savory depth with a slightly sweet, caramelized edge.
- Ham: A smoky, salty contrast to the pork.
- Swiss Cheese: Nutty and melty—it ties everything together.
- Pickles: Brings sharp acidity and crunch.
- Mustard: Cuts the richness for balance.
- Bread: Cuban bread crisps beautifully, but any crusty loaf works.
👉 Want to know more about what’s in your food? Visit the USDA FoodData Central for detailed nutrition info on pork, cheese, and more.
How to Make Grilled Cuban Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Slice the loaf lengthwise and spread softened butter on the outer sides. Then spread mustard on the inside of both halves.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
Start with a layer of Swiss cheese, then add ham, roast pork, pickles, and finish with another layer of cheese. Close the sandwich.
Step 3: Grill and Press
Heat a cast iron skillet or panini press over medium heat. Place the sandwich on and weigh it down with a second skillet or foil-wrapped brick. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Step 4: Serve
Let it rest for a minute, then slice and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use day-old bread for better crisping.
- Don’t skip the mustard—it brightens the sandwich.
- Press firmly, but evenly, for a well-sealed, crispy finish.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Add a tiny bit of garlic butter to the outer sides for an extra flavor kick.
Easy Variations
- Vegetarian: Swap pork and ham with grilled mushrooms and plant-based cheese.
- Spicy: Use spicy brown mustard or add sliced jalapeños.
- Low-Carb: Serve the fillings in lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.
- Tampa-Style: Add a few slices of Genoa salami.
- Breakfast Cuban: Add a fried egg or even scrambled eggs.
Storage & Reheat Tips
- Fridge: Wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Re-crisp in a hot skillet or toaster oven. Avoid microwaving.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate; grill just before serving.
- Freezer: Not ideal—bread and cheese texture suffer.
👉 For safe handling and storage of cooked leftovers, check the FDA’s Food Storage Chart.
🍽️ Make It a Meal
Pair your Grilled Cuban Sandwich with:
- Crunchy plantain chips
- Tangy pineapple slaw
- Sweet potato fries with chipotle mayo
- Fresh lemonade or a citrusy mojito
- A bowl of black bean soup for cozy days
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cuban sandwich made of?
Traditionally, a grilled Cuban sandwiches includes roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard layered on Cuban bread and grilled until crisp.
Can I use pulled pork instead of sliced pork?
Yes—just be sure it’s not too wet or saucy. A drier pulled pork helps maintain the sandwich’s structure and keeps it crispy.
What makes Cuban bread different?
Cuban bread is airy inside with a thin crust, often made with a bit of lard. If unavailable, use a soft baguette or Italian loaf.
Can I skip the mustard?
Technically, yes—but mustard is essential for that traditional tang. If you’re not a fan, consider using a mild Dijon or garlic aioli.
Is there a vegetarian version of this sandwich?
Definitely. Grilled mushrooms or jackfruit with vegan cheese and mustard make a flavorful vegetarian option.
What’s the best cheese substitute if I don’t have Swiss?
Provolone or mozzarella works in a pinch, but Swiss adds the perfect nutty flavor and melt.
How can I press the sandwich without special equipment?
Use a heavy cast iron skillet or even a brick wrapped in foil. Just apply steady pressure as it grills.
Can I serve this cold?
It’s technically safe to eat cold, but grilling transforms the sandwich. The melty cheese and crisp bread make a big difference.
How do I prevent the sandwich from falling apart?
Don’t overload the fillings and always use cheese on both sides—it acts like glue when melted.
Can I use other meats in this sandwich?
You can get creative! Turkey, salami, or even roast chicken work well, though it won’t be a traditional Cuban anymore.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Cuban Sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s a moment. A moment of comfort, warmth, and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re serving it up for a relaxed weekend lunch, a celebratory family cookout, or just craving something satisfying midweek, this sandwich always delivers.
The beauty lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t require exotic ingredients or hours in the kitchen. With a few thoughtful layers and a hot press, you create something that feels indulgent and tastes unforgettable. It’s a sandwich that speaks to tradition and also invites creativity—make it your own with your favorite twists.
Once you try it, I’m betting it’ll become one of those recipes you return to again and again. So go ahead—fire up the skillet, press that sandwich, and enjoy every melty, crispy, savory bite.
For more easy wins in the kitchen, explore our One-Pan Lunches and Make-Ahead Lunches to keep your meals delicious and stress-free.
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📌 Pin This Recipe: Grilled Cuban Sandwiches – Pork, Ham & Melty Swiss
Crispy, melty, and loaded with savory meats—this handheld classic brings bold flavors to your lunch table with zero fuss.
