These Easy Cuban Melts are the perfect blend of tasty ham, gooey cheese, and crunchy pickles all pressed between warm bread! They make for a quick and yummy lunch that’s hard to resist.
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to make these all the time! They are so simple to whip up, and I love how they make my kitchen smell amazing while they cook!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Cuban bread is traditional but can be hard to find. You can easily use French bread or even a good sandwich loaf instead. Just pick something that’s sturdy enough to hold all the fillings!
Pulled Pork: Leftover pulled pork is ideal since it adds flavor and saves time. If you don’t have any, shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey can work too!
Deli Ham: I like using a good quality deli ham for its flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey ham is a great substitute. Just ensure it’s sliced thin for layering.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss is perfect for melting, but you can switch it up with provolone or even cheddar if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that different cheeses can change the flavor a bit.
Dill Pickles: These add a nice crunch! If you’re not a fan, try sliced jalapeños for heat or omit them altogether for a milder sandwich.
How do I Get My Cuban Melts Crispy and Perfectly Melted?
The key to achieving that crispy yet gooey perfection is all in the cooking technique! Here’s how you can nail it:
- Start with medium heat on your skillet or griddle; this helps the bread brown gently without burning.
- Generously butter the bread for a rich flavor and perfect crispness. Make sure to spread it evenly!
- Press down on the sandwiches as they cook. This helps the cheese melt faster and the bread to get that delicious crunch. A heavy pan can work for this if you don’t have a press!
- Don’t rush the cooking! Let each side achieve that golden-brown color which takes about 4-5 minutes.
Letting them rest before slicing helps the cheese set a bit, so you don’t lose all that melty goodness!
Easy Cuban Melts with Leftover Pulled Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices Cuban bread or French bread (cut into sandwich size)
- 1 lb leftover pulled pork (warmed)
- 8 slices deli ham
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 dill pickle slices
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these delicious Cuban melts will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. So, in just 20 minutes, you’ll have warm, cheesy melts ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your skillet or griddle over medium heat. This ensures that the bread toasts perfectly while the cheese melts.
2. Butter the Bread:
Take your slices of bread and spread butter evenly on one side of each slice. This will give the sandwich a beautiful golden color and delicious flavor when cooked.
3. Add Some Flavor:
Now, flip the bread slices over and spread yellow mustard on the non-buttered side. This tangy addition is a key part of the Cuban melt and pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
4. Layer the Fillings:
On 4 of the slices (the ones with mustard on them), start layering your fillings: first, add a slice of ham, then a generous portion of warmed pulled pork, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese, and finally, a couple of dill pickle slices.
5. Complete the Sandwiches:
Now, take the remaining bread slices and place them on top of the layers, butter side up. This forms your sandwiches!
6. Cook the Sandwiches:
Carefully transfer the assembled sandwiches to the hot skillet. Use a spatula to press down slightly on them. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the sandwiches to cook the other side, ensuring they brown evenly. This part is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture!
8. Rest and Slice:
Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for about 1-2 minutes. This helps the cheese set a little. Then, slice each sandwich in half.
9. Secure and Serve:
If you’d like, you can secure the halves with a toothpick and add an extra pickle slice on top for presentation and fun. Serve warm and enjoy your easy pulled pork Cuban melts!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Cuban Melts?
Absolutely! While traditional Cuban bread is ideal, you can substitute it with French bread, sourdough, or even a good quality sandwich loaf. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings!
What If I Don’t Have Leftover Pulled Pork?
No worries! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even deli meats like roast pork or ham. The key is to keep the flavor profile enjoyable with whatever protein you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick fix.
Can I Make These Melts Ahead of Time?
Yes! While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead (without cooking). Just keep them wrapped in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then grill them when you’re ready to eat!
