Name: Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches: Your New Comfort Food Craving
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Submarine Rolls (Substitute hoagie rolls if desired.); 1/2 cup Garlic Butter (Savory blend of melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.); 2 cups Pulled Pork (Feel free to use leftover roast pork.); 1 cup Sliced Ham; 1 cup Pickles (Try pickled onions for a different taste.); 1 cup Swiss Cheese (Provolone or mozzarella can be used as alternatives.); 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard (Spicy mustard or aioli can be used for a kick.)

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The aroma of sizzling garlic butter fills my kitchen, ushering in memories of bustling Cuban streets filled with vibrant culture and mouthwatering food. These Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches are my go-to comfort food, blending melty cheese, juicy pulled pork, and spicy mustard all hugged by crispy golden rolls. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—perfect for a quick, satisfying meal any day of the week and impressive enough to serve at gatherings. They truly are a delightful escape from the usual takeout routine, delivering bold flavors that pile up happily for everyone to enjoy. Curious about how to bring a taste of Cuba to your table? Let’s dive into making these delicious sandwiches together!

Why Will You Love These Sandwiches?

Simplicity at its Core: The beauty of these Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches lies in their quick preparation—perfect for home cooks wanting to whip up something delicious without fuss.
Bold, Layered Flavors: With the combination of smoked pulled pork, zesty mustard, and crunchy pickles, each bite bursts with a delightful contrast of tastes.
Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Customize to your liking by swapping in different cheeses or adding grilled vegetables—there’s no limit to your creativity!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or a party, these sandwiches never fail to impress guests and satisfy hungry appetites.
Plus, if you love garlic flavors, check out our amazing Savory Garlic Butter for a side that pairs perfectly!

Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches Ingredients

• For the perfect flavor journey, gather these essential components.

For the Bread

Submarine Rolls – Soft inside with a crispy exterior, they perfectly cradle your sandwich filling. Substitute hoagie rolls for a similar texture.

For the Garlic Butter

Garlic Butter – This savory blend of melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt is essential for flavoring the bread; brush liberally for a delicious finish.

For the Filling

Pulled Pork & Ham – These meats provide a smoky, salty depth, enhancing the overall flavor; feel free to use leftover roast pork as a quick substitute.
Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully, adding a nutty richness to the sandwich. Provolone or mozzarella can offer a different twist if you desire.
Pickles – Their crunchy and tangy kick balances the sandwich’s richness; try pickled onions for a milder yet tasty contrast.
Yellow Mustard – This zingy condiment adds a refreshing uplift—spicy mustard or aioli offers a delightful kick if you’re feeling adventurous.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches, destined to become your new comfort food craving!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Preheat your oven to low broil. While the oven heats up, slice the submarine rolls lengthwise, taking care not to cut all the way through—this will create a hinge. Place the rolls cut side up on a baking sheet, ready to toast them to perfection.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt to create a rich garlic butter spread. Use a brush to generously apply this delicious mixture to the cut sides of the rolls, ensuring every edge is coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Toast the Rolls
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and broil the rolls for 2-3 minutes, watching closely until they turn lightly golden and crispy. This step is essential for achieving that satisfying crunch that complements your Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Filling
On a clean cutting board, combine shredded pulled pork, sliced ham, pickles, and Swiss cheese. Chop everything roughly to ensure even mixing. Once combined, stir in a generous dollop of yellow mustard to create a flavorful filling that enhances the sandwich’s savory layers.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Carefully spoon the filling into the toasted rolls, pressing down slightly to hold everything together. These Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches are best served immediately while hot and melty, delivering that inviting aroma and comforting taste straight to your table.

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Expert Tips for Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches

Broil with Care: Don’t skip the broiling step; it adds critical crunch. Keep a close watch to prevent burning while toasting the rolls.
Chop it Right: Finely chopping the filling makes for easier scooping and eating. Aim for uniform pieces to help meld the flavors together beautifully.
Serve Fresh: Assemble and broil right before serving for the best results—leftovers can be reheated but will lose their crunchy texture.
Make Ahead: To save time, prepare the filling and garlic butter in advance. Just assemble and toast fresh when you’re ready to serve your Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches.

Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches Variations

Feel free to get creative with these ideas to make your Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches even more delightful!

Spicy Mustard: Swap out yellow mustard for spicy mustard or aioli to elevate the flavor profile with a zesty kick. This adds a great depth and complexity!
Grilled Vegetables: For a vegetarian twist, try using grilled zucchini, peppers, and onions instead of meat. This change gives a fresh taste while keeping the heartiness that makes these sandwiches fulfilling.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheese by replacing Swiss with sharp cheddar or tangy feta for a whole new flavor experience that your taste buds will love.
Pickle Varieties: Switch regular pickles for spicy dill or bread-and-butter pickles for a sweet and tangy contrast that adds an exciting twist to each bite.
Herb Infusion: Stir some freshly chopped basil or oregano into your garlic butter for an aromatic touch. The fragrant herbs will elevate the overall flavors and aroma of your sandwich with each bite.
Tomato Slices: Add slices of fresh tomatoes for extra juiciness and flavor. The freshness of tomatoes will balance the richness of the pork and cheese beautifully.
Avocado Spread: Spread mashed avocado on the inside of the rolls for a creamy richness. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds a smooth texture.

Feel like pairing your meal with something delicious? Our Baked Garlic Parmesan wedges are a perfect crunchy side that goes wonderfully with these sandwiches!

Make Ahead Options

These Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the filling (pulled pork, ham, pickles, cheese, and mustard) up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh flavor. Additionally, you can make the garlic butter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to enjoy your sandwiches, simply toast the rolls and assemble the filling, following the final steps. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready in no time, without sacrificing quality!

What to Serve with Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches

Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides and pairings that beautifully complement the bold flavors of your Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches.

Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast, making each bite of the sandwich even more enjoyable. The crispness of the cabbage and the tang of the dressing harmonize perfectly.
Classic Potato Chips: The salty crunch of potato chips provides a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with the melty richness of the sandwich. Opt for a kettle-cooked variety for an extra crunch!
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized, these veggies bring warmth and earthiness to your plate, balancing the dish beautifully with their natural sweetness.
Zesty Pickled Onions: These vibrant, tangy toppings mirror the pickles in the sandwich and amplify the flavor profile, adding a punch of brightness and complexity to the meal.
Sweet Plantains: With their caramelized sweetness, fried plantains offer a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the sandwich. Their sweetness will have you reminiscing about Cuban cuisine.
Chilled Mojito: A refreshing minty mojito sparkles with lime and rum, acting as a splendid beverage pair to cut through the sandwich’s richness. Sipping on this cocktail will transport you straight to a sun-soaked patio!
Lemonade or Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, chilled lemonade or iced tea provides a refreshing palate cleanser, enhancing your overall experience with a zesty or subtly sweet note.

Choose any combination of these sides and drinks to create a vibrant and satisfying meal centered around your Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches!

Storage Tips for Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches

Fridge: Store cooked sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap them well to maintain their crunchiness when reheating.

Freezer: If you have leftovers, these Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat sandwiches in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures they stay crispy and delicious!

Filling Storage: You can also store the filling separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, then assemble and toast fresh for serving.

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Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches Recipe FAQs

What type of rolls should I use for these sandwiches?
Submarine rolls are ideal due to their soft interior and crispy exterior, making them perfect for holding all the delicious filling. If you can’t find them, hoagie rolls are a great substitute with a similar texture!

How should I store leftover Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches?
To keep them fresh, store cooked sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap them well to maintain their crunchiness for reheating.

Can I freeze Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches?
Absolutely! These sandwiches freeze wonderfully. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.

What if my filling is too runny?
If you find your filling is too runny, you can tighten it up by adding a bit of shredded cheese, or you can use a slotted spoon to remove excess moisture before filling the bread. Alternatively, finely chop the pickles to reduce liquid released during cooking.

Are Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches suitable for kids or those with allergies?
These tasty sandwiches can be adjusted to accommodate dietary needs! If you’re concerned about allergies, you can substitute ingredients, like using a gluten-free roll or omitting the pickles if your little ones aren’t fond of them. Always check labels when dealing with allergies.