Cuban Sliders

Cuban Sliders are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion. These delightful mini sandwiches combine turkey, chicken, cheese, and pickles, all nestled in soft, fluffy rolls. With their bold flavor and easy preparation, they make an excellent appetizer or snack for parties, game days, or family gatherings. Enjoy the unique blend of ingredients that delivers a satisfying taste experience with each bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have these sliders ready in no time, making them great for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of turkey, chicken, and Swiss cheese creates a mouthwatering bite that everyone will love.
• Crowd Favorite: Perfect for parties and events, these sliders are sure to impress guests of all ages with their deliciousness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers or make them the main dish—it’s your choice! They’re great alongside salads or fries.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the toppings or add extra flavors according to your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cuban Sliders effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to assemble your sliders.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you slice the rolls and ingredients neatly for a professional look.
• Mixing bowl: This is crucial for combining ingredients efficiently before applying them to 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 (175°C) so it’s ready for baking when you’re done assembling the sliders.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

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

Step 3: Add Mustard

Spread yellow mustard evenly across the bottom buns for added flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Fillings

1. Top with sliced turkey.
2. Add pre-cooked pulled chicken on top of the turkey.
3. Place dill pickle slices over the chicken.
4. Finally, layer Swiss cheese atop everything.

Step 5: Place Top Buns

Gently place the top halves of the rolls over your layered fillings.

Step 6: Mix Butter Mixture

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter with minced garlic and kosher salt.
2. Stir well until mixed thoroughly.

Step 7: Brush on Butter Mixture

Use a pastry brush to apply the melted butter mixture generously over the tops of the slider buns.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with tinfoil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until cheese is hot and bubbly.

Step 9: Bake Uncovered

Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Once baked, remove from oven, slice into individual sliders, and serve warm to enjoy!

How to Serve Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders are delightful, bite-sized treats that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual gathering, serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate their flavor and appeal.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy option that complements the sliders beautifully.
• Garlic Aioli: Creamy and rich, this sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Mayo: For those who love a kick, this spicy condiment enhances the overall taste.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing, coleslaw balances the richness of the sliders.
• Garden Salad: A mix of greens and veggies provides a light contrast to the hearty sliders.
• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that pairs well with any sandwich.

Include Pickled Veggies

• Pickled Red Onions: Their tanginess cuts through the richness of the sliders.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy some heat, these add spice and flavor.

Offer a Variety of Chips

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with salsa or guacamole for a crunchy side.
• Potato Chips: Classic chips provide an easy, satisfying crunch alongside your sliders.

How to Perfect Cuban Sliders

To create the ultimate Cuban sliders, keep these tips in mind. With a little attention to detail, you can make these sliders even more delicious.

• Bold Flavor Combinations: Use high-quality turkey and chicken for maximum flavor impact.
• Proper Cheese Melting: Covering with foil while baking helps achieve gooey melted cheese.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh parsley and dill pickles for the best taste.
• Even Baking Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for consistent cooking results.
• Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to experiment with other toppings like roasted peppers or olives.

Best Side Dishes for Cuban Sliders

Cuban sliders are versatile enough to pair with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions that will complement your meal perfectly.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they add a touch of sweetness.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is a classic side that brings summer flavors to your table.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a hearty addition to your meal.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the savory flavors of the sliders.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful and nutritious, stuffed peppers add an element of fun to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cuban Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Bold Preparation: Skipping the drying step for turkey can lead to soggy sliders. Always pat your turkey dry with a paper towel before assembling.
• Bold Cheese Layering: Forgetting to add cheese can make your sliders less flavorful. Ensure you layer Swiss cheese properly for that melty goodness.
• Bold Storage Timing: Not storing leftovers correctly can ruin their taste. Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container within two hours of baking.
• Bold Baking Time: Overbaking can dry out the sliders. Watch closely during the last five minutes of baking to achieve golden tops without drying them out.
• Bold Mustard Distribution: Applying mustard unevenly leads to inconsistent flavor. Spread it evenly across the bottom buns for balanced taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cuban Sliders

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cuban Sliders

• Bold Oven: Reheat at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cuban Sliders?

Cuban Sliders are small sandwiches made with turkey, chicken, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on soft rolls. They offer a delightful mix of flavors in every bite.

Can I customize my Cuban Sliders?

Absolutely! You can swap ingredients like using different cheeses or adding more vegetables according to your taste preferences.

How do I serve Cuban Sliders?

Serve them warm as appetizers or snacks at parties, game days, or family gatherings. They’re perfect for sharing!

How long does it take to make Cuban Sliders?

The total time is about 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking time, making them a quick option for busy days.

Conclusion

Cuban Sliders are not just delicious but also versatile. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, they make a great appetizer or snack that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings and flavors!

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