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Experience the authentic taste of Tampa Bay with this Authentic Cuban sandwich recipe (also known as a Cubano), perfected from my time living where these classics are a staple. Made with marinated roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, yellow mustard, and pickles, this easy-to-make sandwich is packed with bold, traditional flavors you’ll love.
Growing up and living in Tampa Bay for over 50 years means I’ve had my fair share of Cuban sandwiches—and I mean a lot. From working here to trying all the hidden gems and popular spots, I’ve tasted every version of this iconic sandwich. But one thing’s for sure: it always comes back to the simple, perfect blend of flavors that’s so hard to beat.
If you’re ready to bring that taste of Tampa Bay into your own kitchen, I’ve got you covered with this authentic Cuban sandwich recipe. It’s all about layering marinated roast pork, good-quality ham, melty Swiss cheese, tangy yellow mustard, and those thin, crisp pickles. And don’t forget the Cuban bread—it’s what makes the magic happen.
Now, finding authentic Cuban bread outside this area can be tricky. Luckily, you can order it from La Segunda Bakery (they don’t pay me – just sharing this amazing resource) and get that true Tampa experience. Trust me, this recipe is packed with the bold, savory flavors that’ll make you feel like you’re right here in my hometown, even if you’re miles away.
What is a Cuban Sandwich?
The Cuban sandwich made its debut in Florida back in the late 1800s, thanks to Cuban immigrants who began settling in the area and bringing their flavors with them. This hearty sandwich quickly became a popular lunch option at workers’ cafes, fueling long days with its layers of deliciousness. The addition of salami? That’s a Tampa twist, likely influenced by the Italian community that added its own spin to the local cuisine.
Personally, I’ve tried it both with and without salami, and I have to say—I like it either way (cue the gasps from the die-hard purists!). If you prefer to go without the salami, just add a bit more ham to make up for it, and you’ll still have a sandwich that’s packed with authentic, savory goodness.
Cubano Sandwich Ingredients
- Cuban Bread: Essential for that authentic touch—light, airy, and perfectly crusty.
- Yellow Mustard: Adds the right amount of tang to cut through the richness of the meats and cheese.
- Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and has a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the meats.
- Ham: Go for high-quality deli ham for the best flavor and texture.
- Roasted Pork: Spanish pork from the deli is my go-to (I get mine at Publix). It’s pre-cooked and packed with flavor, making this step a breeze. You can also use leftover Mojo Pork.
- Genoa Salami (optional): Adds a hint of spice; skip it or add extra ham for a more classic version.
This ingredient is a bit controversial, so if it’s not authentic in your book- skip it! - Pickles: Thinly sliced for even distribution and that signature crunch.
- Butter: Key for a golden, crispy finish. Don’t skimp on this!
How to make Cuban Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Bread
First, preheat your panini press or get a large cast iron skillet or griddle heated over medium. You want it nice and hot to give that bread a beautiful crisp.
Lay your bread open on the counter and spread a generous layer of mustard on both the top and bottom halves.
Step 2: Layer Your Fillings
Now comes the fun part—adding the fillings! On the top half, layer the Swiss cheese and pickles.
On the bottom half, pile on the ham, roasted pork, and salami (if you’re using salami).
Close the sandwich and press down gently so everything stays put.
Step 3: Butter and Press
Butter the top and bottom of the sandwich, then place it on your hot panini press.
Press down with moderate pressure and let it cook until both sides are golden and crisp, about 8 minutes.
No press? No problem! If you’re using a cast iron skillet, melt some butter and pop the sandwich in. Use another pan to press down on top (or a brick wrapped with foil). Let it crisp up on one side, then flip and repeat, pressing down again for that perfect crunch—about 10 minutes total. Leave long enough to melt the cheese to your desired meltyness!
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once the sandwich is toasted to perfection, slice it diagonally for that classic look. Serve it up immediately and enjoy that warm, melty, and savory bite. You’ve earned it!
How to Serve this Cubano Sandwich Recipe
Serve your freshly made Cubano sandwich hot and crisp, sliced diagonally for that classic look. Pair it with some crunchy plantain chips and a 1905 Salad for a true taste of Cuban cuisine. A side of Spanish Bean Soup or Caldo Gallego complements the flavors perfectly.
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This sandwich shines as a main dish, perfect for lunch gatherings or casual dinners with family and friends. Enjoy with plenty of napkins—it’s delightfully messy in the best way!
How to Store Leftovers of this Cuban Sandwich Recipe
If you have any leftovers (though it’s rare with this crowd-pleaser!), wrap the sandwich tightly in aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, use a skillet or panini press to crisp it back up—just a few minutes over medium heat will do the trick. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
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Authentic Cuban Sandwich
Ingredients
- 12 inch Cuban bread, halved
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 3 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
- 3 ounces pickles, sliced thin
- 8 ounces ham, sliced
- 5 ounces roasted pork, (I can find this in my deli) or use Mojo Pork
- 2 ounces genoa salami, (optional) A traditional style does not use salami – see note.
- 2 tbsp butter, (or to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Pan: Preheat your panini press or a large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. You want it hot enough to crisp the bread to a nice golden color.
- Prep Bread: Lay your bread open on your work surface and spread a generous layer of mustard on both the bottom and top halves.12 inch Cuban bread, 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- Layer Your Fillings: On the top half of the bread, layer the Swiss cheese and pickles. On the bottom half, add the ham, roasted pork, and salami (if using it). Close the sandwich and press gently to keep everything snug.3 ounces Swiss cheese, 3 ounces pickles, 8 ounces ham, 5 ounces roasted pork, 2 ounces genoa salami
- Butter and Press: Butter both the top and bottom of the sandwich. Place it on your preheated panini press and apply moderate pressure. Cook until both sides are golden and crisp, about 8 minutes. And cheese is melted to your liking.Alternative: If you’re using a cast-iron skillet, melt some butter and add the sandwich. Use a second pan to press down (you can also use a brick wrapped in foil or a cast-iron press). Once the first side is crisp, flip the sandwich and repeat, pressing again, for a total of about 10 minutes.2 tbsp butter
- Slice and Serve: When the sandwich is perfectly toasted and golden, slice it diagonally for that classic presentation. Serve immediately while it’s warm, and enjoy every bite!
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Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Soulfully Made is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
©️Soulfully Made
I used to love ❤️ eating Cubans all time when I was in La Habana. The only thing I liked more was a plate of ropa Viejas, los morros y cristianos y plantano maduro, and wash it down with a Coca-Cola.
Aren’t they just the best. You are making me hungry now! All delicious dishes!
Will try this weekend 😋
I hope you love it as much as we do!
I use to live in Pinellas county and over by the Clearwater airport there was this tiny shack that made the Best Cuban sandwich I ever had
I will have to check it out next time I am over that way! Thanks for sharing!
I got a taste of a Cuban Sandwich an love it only to find it was not very authentic. Working in the airline industry with several people of Cuban and Hispanic descent from the Miami area, I started researching this sandwich. There are two items which are KEY. First the Cuban bread, (which I can not get in the Memphis area) and next is the Mojo marinade which can be made if you can get bitter or sevile oranges that can be ordered on line.
Sam, I am not sure if you have Publix supermarkets in Memphis. I know there are some in the TN area. Check to see if they carry Spanish pork in the deli, if so. It is a really great option for a Cuban. They also make Cuban bread. It’s not exactly like the loaf you get in Tampa but it is really good. You can also mojo marinades in the store that do a pretty good job. I have a slow cooker mojo pork that works pretty well. Marinate the meat for a few hours for even more flavor.
I have lived in Tampa and have sampled many varieties of Cuban Sandwiches over the years. This recipe nailed it. One of the best I have ever eaten, the rest of the family echoed the same sentiment. The pork seasoning and of course the baked Cuban Bread is key though with this sandwich. Very well done, we’ll be doing this again.
Thank you, Randy! It’s hard to beat a Cuban Sandwich. I love living in this area! Such amazing food and we are so spoiled with delicious Cuban bread!
Where can I find Cuban bread??
It depends on where you live. Publix usually carries it. Their bakery-style is delicious not the same as what you find here in the Tampa area but it is really good. Walmart also has it too, but it may vary based on location. I like to buy the Casino brand at Publix as it is made in a Tampa bakery.
I live in Apollo Beach Fl south of Tampa and Plant City I think the best Cuban I have ever had is from a visit to Miami ! I too have made them but there is just something about going to Miami and sitting down in a Cuban restaurant and enjoy! Read a different recipe of yours about shrimp salad Sandwiches and your grandparents how wonderful I have many food memories from my grandparents home I grew up in Connecticut and seafood was a plenty and some of the best we summer at the cape cod and eat seafood daily! Nice to know others that relate family with food ! Thanks for sharing!
Hi Karen! You aren’t too far from me. I do love memories we make surrounded by love ones and the table! I appreciate you stopping in to say hello and connecting with me. I still haven’t made it to the Connecticut area. My husband and I were just talking about hopefully being able to go soon. Seafood twice a day sounds glorious!
I lived in Miami for several years and came up with my own version when we moved back to Georgia, I use ham and not salami. Thank goodness for Publix baking the “authentic Cuban bread” which I use, I also use a cast iron pan with foil in between it and the sandwich for what I call my “redneck panini maker!”
I also use ham as well! And that goodness for Publix. 🙂 And our cast iron pan panini makers 😉
We lived near Tampa, Florida, for almost 6 years. Hubby discovered the Cuban Sandwich there and fell in LOVE with it. While there, I did learn how to make it, and even made some when we moved back to NC. However, it’s been a few years since I have made these for him. I am going to print this off and make for him again. He will be thrilled!
Regarding the salami, he loves it, but one of the folks in the church where we were serving, who was Cuban, said it just WAS. NOT. DONE. LOL – so we are half and half on using it – sometimes yes, sometimes no.
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for stopping by Amy! Yes, everyone feels differently about the salami lol! I like it both ways! Where did you live? I am in Plant City. Your hubby will love his surprise!
I’m always up for a good Cuban sammie!
Cindy, Me too! They are so yummy!
I’ve had Cuban sandwiches and I love them – I had no idea they were so easy to make!
Marye, they are so easy to put together and so yummy!
I have enjoyed a Cuban when I was down in Florida and enjoyed it very much. I don’t think it had salami. I am going to have to see if I can find Cuban bread here in Michigan. I may have to substitute a different kind.
They are yummy! I need to find a recipe for making the bread and try sometime. I am just so spoiled to have it locally I have never tried.
Thank you for the intro to the Cuban. All the times I’ve traveled to Florida, I had no idea the Cuban was a tradition. It does indeed look and sound scrumptious.
You are so welcome! They are such a simple but delicious sandwich! I’m from the Tampa area so I may take them for granted a bit! They are on most sandwich shop menus. My family loves when I make them at home too!
I need to track down some Cuban bread so I can make this ASAP!!!
Yes you do Liz! I am so spoiled being near Tampa! Such delicious bread!
I love a good Cuban sandwich and it’s so nice to be able to make one at home.
They sure are good and so easy to make at home!
Hi Nikki, I like this sandwich both ways, the salami gives it a little something extra, looks delicious!!!
Thank you so much Cheri! I like it both ways too and completely agree with you!
I’m a firm believer that only folks around Tampa know a true Cuban sandwich, so THANK YOU for sharing!
I may be a little partial, but I agree 🙂 Thank you for stopping by Amy!