Description
Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches are a convenient and flavorful dish perfect for feeding a crowd. Tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder is combined with Swiss cheese, ham, and mustard in crusty Cuban rolls, then grilled to a crispy, melty perfection. This recipe delivers a taste of Cuba with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 slices ham
- 4 Cuban or sub rolls
- 4 tablespoons yellow mustard
- Pickle slices (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Pork: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add the pork shoulder and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, chicken broth, orange juice, lime juice, and white vinegar. Pour the mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
- Shred Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the cooking juices.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Split the Cuban rolls and spread mustard on the inside of each roll. Layer with Swiss cheese, ham, and shredded pork. Top with additional Swiss cheese if desired.
- Grill: Place the sandwiches on the griddle or skillet and press down with a heavy pan or spatula. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches warm with pickle slices if desired.
Notes
- Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches are ideal for feeding a crowd and perfect for gatherings. The slow cooking process infuses the pork with incredible flavor and makes it incredibly tender. Grilling the sandwiches adds a delicious crispy texture and melty cheese finish.
- For added flavor, consider adding pickle slices to the sandwiches before grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours