Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches
By Jason Griffith | ChefManiac.com
Introduction
Nothing beats the satisfying crunch and flavor explosion of a Cuban sandwich—especially when it starts with tender, citrus-marinated pork slow-cooked to perfection. These Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches deliver every element you crave: savory pork, sweet ham, melty Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and the crispy pressed bread that brings it all together.
Perfect for weekend gatherings, tailgates, or just upgrading your sandwich game, this recipe turns a humble pork shoulder into an all-star meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the ease of a slow cooker with the crave-worthy finish of a grilled sandwich. You let the slow-cooked mojo pork do its thing for hours, soak up all the flavor, then layer it into warm, buttery Cuban bread with pickles, mustard, ham, and cheese. Press it to crispy, golden perfection, and you’ve got a sandwich that’s hearty, balanced, and totally unforgettable.
It reminds me of the same energy as these Chicken Enchiladas—a dish that delivers big flavor and feeds a crew. Cuban sandwiches are satisfying, fun to make, and totally customizable.
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 4–5 lbs. pork shoulder or pork butt roast
- Juice from 2 oranges
- Juice from 2 limes
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Tbsp. ground cumin
- 1 Tbsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
For the Sandwiches:
- 2 loaves Cuban bread (or Italian bread)
- 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
- ½ lb. sliced Swiss cheese
- ½ lb. sliced deli ham
- 12 sandwich pickles, sliced lengthwise
- Yellow mustard (to taste)
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Pork Sub: You can use pork loin for a leaner option, though shoulder yields juicier results.
- Bread Options: If you can’t find Cuban bread, use French or Italian bread rolls with a soft center and crisp crust.
- Cheese Swap: Provolone works, but Swiss is classic for that gooey melt and tangy bite.
- Spicy Kick: Add a slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate and Cook the Pork
In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Place pork in the slow cooker (fat side up) and pour the marinade over the top.
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and falling apart.
Remove the pork, discard bones and fat, and shred with two forks. Return shredded pork to the slow cooker juices to soak.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Slice your bread loaves horizontally and trim ends.
- Spread softened butter on the outside of each slice.
- Spread yellow mustard on the inside of each slice.
Layer the bottom half with:
- A slice of Swiss cheese
- Deli ham
- A generous scoop of shredded pork
- Pickles
- Another layer of Swiss cheese
Top with the remaining bread half.
3. Grill or Press the Sandwiches
Panini Press Method:
Preheat and grill each sandwich for 3–5 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cast Iron Skillet Method:
Place sandwiches in the pan and weigh down with another skillet or foil-wrapped brick. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and pressed.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skimp on mustard: It cuts through the richness of the pork and cheese.
- Let the pork rest in juices: It absorbs even more flavor.
- Use a good press or heavy skillet: That iconic pressed texture makes all the difference.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These sandwiches are a meal on their own, but even better with:
- Dorito Casserole – for bold, cheesy sidekick energy
- Beer Cheese Dip with pretzels or chips for sharing
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas as a complementary crowd-pleaser
- Classic kettle chips and a cold soda or mojito
Storage & Leftovers
- Pork: Store leftover pork in its juices in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Assembled Sandwiches: Best grilled fresh, but you can prep them and store unpressed in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Use a skillet or toaster oven for best results—microwaving may make bread soggy.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved these sandwiches, try:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders
- Dorito Casserole
- Chicken Enchiladas
- Beer Cheese Dip
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches are the kind of meal that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Juicy pork, tangy pickles, and melty cheese all pressed into golden perfection—what more could you want?
Try this recipe, and don’t forget to tag @gtagriff900 on ChefManiac to show off your Cubanos. Whether it’s game day or just a better-than-average Tuesday dinner, this one’s a winner.
