Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwich Recipe

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A classic Cuban sandwich made easy with slow-cooked, juicy pork, layers of ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and tangy mustard on crispy, buttery bread. Perfect for a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

For the Pork:

  • 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ¼ cup lime juice
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, sliced

For the Sandwiches:

  • 6 Cuban bread rolls (or French bread)
  • 6 slices deli ham
  • 6 slices Swiss cheese
  • ½ cup yellow mustard (or Dijon)
  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare & Cook the Pork:

  1. Season the pork: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, paprika, and minced garlic. Rub the mixture all over the pork.
  2. Sear the pork (optional but recommended): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
  3. Slow cook: Place the pork in a slow cooker and add orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, and sliced onions. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
  4. Shred the pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Let it soak in the juices for extra flavor.

2. Assemble the Cuban Sandwiches:

  1. Preheat a panini press or skillet to medium heat.
  2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise and spread yellow mustard on both sides.
  3. Layer the fillings in this order: Swiss cheese, ham, shredded pork, pickles, and another layer of Swiss cheese.
  4. Close the sandwich and brush the top with melted butter.

3. Grill & Serve:

  1. Place the sandwich in a panini press and grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted (about 3-5 minutes).
  2. If using a skillet, press down with a heavy pan or spatula and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once.
  3. Slice and serve warm with crispy plantain chips or fries.

Tips & Variations:

  • No Cuban bread? Use French or Italian bread, but avoid overly soft bread.
  • Extra crispy? Brush the bread with additional butter before grilling.
  • Want a spicier kick? Add a dash of hot sauce to the mustard.
  • Shortcut version: Use store-bought pulled pork or leftover roasted pork.

Enjoy your Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches, packed with juicy pork, melted cheese, and crispy, buttery perfection! 🥪🔥

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Categories: Food & Drink