Cuban Sliders

Cuban Sliders are a delightful twist on traditional sliders, perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized treats combine turkey, chicken, and Swiss cheese with a zesty kick from mustard and pickles. Ideal for parties, game days, or family dinners, these Cuban Sliders are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Get ready to impress your guests with this crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of turkey, chicken, and Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering experience with each bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, Cuban Sliders fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are sure to be a hit at parties and gatherings—everyone loves mini sandwiches!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients that are easy to find in your pantry.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cuban Sliders successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown top.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients without making a mess—essential for mixing butter and seasonings.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for applying the buttery topping evenly over the sliders.

Ingredients

Loaded with turkey, chicken, cheese, mustard, and pickles, these little Cuban Sliders pack a huge flavorful punch!

• 12 Kings Hawaiian Dinner Rolls
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 pound sliced turkey, (dried with a paper towel)
• 1 pound pre-cooked pulled chicken
• 5-6 Dill pickles, (sliced lengthwise)
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• ¼ cup butter, (melted)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, (finely chopped)

How to Make Cuban Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial for ensuring your sliders bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

1. Split your rolls in half.
2. Place the bottom halves in a prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add Mustard

Spread yellow mustard evenly onto the bottom buns. This adds flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Layer the Fillings

1. Top the buns with sliced turkey.
2. Add the pulled chicken next.
3. Place dill pickles on top of the meats.
4. Finally, layer Swiss cheese over everything.

Step 5: Complete the Sandwiches

Place the top half of the buns on top of your layered fillings to complete your sliders.

Step 6: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Combine melted butter with kosher salt, garlic, and fresh parsley.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 7: Brush with Butter Mixture

Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter mixture.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F or until the cheese is hot and bubbly.

Step 9: Bake Uncovered for Golden Brown Topping

Remove the foil from your baking dish:
1. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the tops turn golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Once out of the oven:
1. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Slice them into individual sliders and serve warm.

Enjoy these Cuban Sliders at your next gathering—they’re sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Cuban Sliders are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. These flavorful bites are perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy family dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Cuban Sliders experience.

Classic Presentation

• Platter Display: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for a visually appealing presentation.
• Accompanying Dips: Serve with a side of mustard or aioli for dipping to add an extra burst of flavor.

Fun Additions

• Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings station with extra pickles, sliced jalapeños, and different cheeses for guests to customize their sliders.
• Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top of the sliders before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Beverage Pairing

• Refreshing Drinks: Offer iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water to complement the flavors of the sliders.
• Mocktail Options: Create fun mocktails using fruits and herbs that match the vibrant flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Cuban Sliders

To make your Cuban Sliders even more delicious, consider these tips. They will help ensure each bite bursts with flavor and satisfaction.

• Bold Flavor Profile: Use high-quality mustard and freshly minced garlic for an intense flavor.
• Layer Wisely: Place ingredients evenly to prevent soggy buns and ensure balanced bites.
• Choose Fresh Rolls: Opt for fresh Kings Hawaiian rolls for optimal softness and sweetness.
• Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on the melted butter mixture; it adds richness to the top crust.
• Bake with Care: Cover sliders with foil initially to keep them moist; uncovering helps achieve that golden-brown finish.

Best Side Dishes for Cuban Sliders

Pairing sides with your Cuban Sliders can elevate the meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement these tasty bites perfectly.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, they offer a delightful contrast to the savory sliders.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the sliders.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a summery touch that goes well with any slider.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a hearty side that pairs nicely with turkey and chicken flavors.
5. Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled vegetables add both nutrition and visual appeal.
6. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing palate cleanser between slider bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cuban Sliders can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the perfect sliders.

• Incorrect Roll Selection: Using rolls that are too hard or dense can ruin the texture. Opt for soft dinner rolls that will hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
• Skipping the Mustard: Not spreading mustard on the bottom buns can lead to bland sliders. Be generous with the mustard to enhance flavor.
• Overcrowding Ingredients: Piling too much meat or cheese can make it hard to bite into the sliders. Layer ingredients evenly and don’t overload.
• Neglecting Butter Mixture: Forgetting to brush the melted butter mixture on top results in a dry finish. This step adds flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust.
• Not Covering While Baking: Skipping the foil cover can lead to uneven cooking. Covering helps steam and melt the cheese properly before browning.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cuban Sliders in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Cuban Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cuban Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place sliders on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one slider at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of butter and cook sliders covered until heated through, usually around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cuban Sliders?

Cuban Sliders are small sandwiches filled with turkey, chicken, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles, all layered between soft rolls. They are perfect for parties or snacks.

Can I customize my Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! You can add other toppings like jalapeños, onions, or different cheeses according to your taste preferences.

How do I make vegan Cuban Sliders?

To create vegan version Cuban Sliders, substitute meats with grilled vegetables or plant-based proteins and use dairy-free cheese.

Can I prepare Cuban Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

Conclusion

Cuban Sliders are an exciting take on classic flavors that everyone will love. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various ingredients to suit any occasion. Try making these delightful sliders for your next gathering and watch them disappear quickly!