Name: Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 4-5 lbs. pork shoulder or butt roast; Juice from 2 oranges; Juice from 2 limes; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 Tbsp. cumin; 1 Tbsp. dried oregano; 1 tsp. cayenne pepper; 1 tsp. kosher salt; 4-6 hoagie rolls or Cuban sandwich bread; 6-8 slices Swiss cheese; 4-6 dill pickle spears; 2 Tbsp. butter, melted (for toasting bread)

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These Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches are a perfect balance of tender, slow-cooked pork seasoned with citrus and spices, all served on crispy bread with Swiss cheese and dill pickles. It’s a flavorful, hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy any craving for something savory and satisfying.

Ingredients

4-5 lbs. pork shoulder or butt roast

Juice from 2 oranges

Juice from 2 limes

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 Tbsp. cumin

1 Tbsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 tsp. kosher salt

4-6 hoagie rolls or Cuban sandwich bread

6-8 slices Swiss cheese

4-6 dill pickle spears

2 Tbsp. butter, melted (for toasting bread)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a slow cooker, place the pork roast and pour in the juices of the oranges and limes.

Add minced garlic, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Rub the seasoning evenly over the pork.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Once the pork is done, shred it in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it with the juices and seasonings for flavor.

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush the hoagie rolls with melted butter on the outside.

In each roll, layer a generous amount of the shredded pork, followed by Swiss cheese and dill pickle spears.

Place the assembled sandwiches on the skillet or griddle, pressing them down slightly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese has melted.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Cuban sandwiches!

Servings and timing

Servings: 6-8 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 8 hours (slow cooker)

Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add some heat: If I like my sandwiches spicy, I can add extra cayenne pepper or include sliced jalapeños inside the sandwich.

Different bread options: While hoagie rolls or Cuban bread are traditional, I can use any type of bread I prefer, like baguettes or even sourdough for a slightly different flavor.

Cheese choices: Swiss cheese is a classic, but I could also try using provolone or even a combination of cheese for a unique twist.

Slow Cooker Shortcut: If I’m short on time, I can opt to cook the pork on high for 4-5 hours, though it may not be as tender.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I can store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If I want to keep the bread crispy, I recommend storing the bread separately from the pork and assembling the sandwiches just before serving.

Reheating: To reheat, I can warm the pork in the microwave or on the stove, and then toast the bread in a skillet to make it crispy again.

FAQs

How do I know when the pork is ready?

The pork is ready when it can be easily shredded with two forks. The slow cooker should cook the pork until it’s fork-tender after about 8 hours on low.

Can I make the sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! I can prepare the pork in advance, store it in the fridge, and then assemble and toast the sandwiches when ready to serve.

What other condiments can I add?

If I want to switch things up, I could add some mustard or mayo to the sandwich for extra flavor. A touch of hot sauce would also be a great addition for some heat!

Can I freeze the pulled pork for later?

Absolutely! I can freeze the pulled pork in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. When I’m ready to use it, I can thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.

What other sides would go well with this?

For a complete meal, I love pairing these Cuban sandwiches with some crispy fries, a side salad, or even some plantains for an authentic Cuban touch.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches are the perfect meal for anyone craving a flavorful, easy-to-make dish. The tender, seasoned pork combined with crispy bread, melted cheese, and tangy pickles is a winning combination. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just enjoying a simple dinner at home, this recipe always satisfies.

Recipe:

Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches

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Print Recipe

These Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches are a delicious and easy meal featuring tender, slow-cooked pork with vibrant citrus and spice flavors, topped with Swiss cheese and dill pickles. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, the sandwiches are made with crispy bread, making them a flavorful and hearty option that’s sure to please any crowd.

Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings

Instructions

Place the pork roast in the slow cooker and pour in the juice from the oranges and limes.
Add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt, rubbing the seasoning evenly over the pork.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and can easily be shredded with a fork.
Shred the pork in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it with the juices and seasonings.
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush the hoagie rolls with melted butter on the outside.
Layer the shredded pork, Swiss cheese, and dill pickle spears in each roll.
Place the assembled sandwiches on the skillet or griddle, pressing them slightly. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
Serve immediately and enjoy!