Name: Cuban Chopped Grinder Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 loaf Cuban bread (or hoagie rolls); 1/2 pound roasted pork, sliced or shredded; 1/2 pound ham, sliced; 1/2 pound salami, sliced; 1/2 cup Swiss cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup dill pickles, sliced; 1/4 cup yellow mustard; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling); 1 cup lettuce, shredded; 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

Introduction

The Cuban Chopped Grinder Sandwich is a flavorful, satisfying meal featuring layers of savory meats, Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles, all nestled inside warm Cuban bread. Served with an optional fresh chopped salad, this sandwich makes a perfect lunch or casual dinner that’s easy to prepare and delicious to eat.

The image shows a sandwich made with a golden brown toasted baguette, split open to reveal layers inside. The first layer is a stack of thinly sliced pink ham with soft texture, topped with a mix of shredded light green lettuce and finely chopped red onion pieces. On top, there is melted white cheese mixed with small green pickled jalapeño slices and bits of diced tomato, creating a colorful and fresh look. The sandwich rests on parchment paper placed on a wooden board, with some green herb sprinkles visible around. In the blurred background, there are potato chips and a small wooden bowl filled with more pickles. The surface beneath is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 loaf Cuban bread (or hoagie rolls)

1/2 pound roasted pork, sliced or shredded

1/2 pound ham, sliced

1/2 pound salami, sliced

1/2 cup Swiss cheese, shredded

1/4 cup dill pickles, sliced

1/4 cup yellow mustard

1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)

For the chopped salad (optional):

1 cup lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chopped salad (optional) by combining shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Toss well and set aside.

Step 2: Slice the Cuban bread or hoagie rolls lengthwise. Spread yellow mustard on both halves of the bread. Layer roasted pork, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles on the bottom half. If using, add a generous amount of chopped salad on top.

Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwich on the skillet and press down gently with a spatula or a weight. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Slice in half and serve warm with your choice of extra pickles or chips.

Tips & Variations

To enhance the sandwich’s authentic Cuban flavor, use real Cuban bread when possible, but hoagie rolls work well as a substitute.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add some pickled jalapeños or swap yellow mustard for a spicy mustard variant.

For a vegetarian option, replace the meats with grilled vegetables and use a flavorful cheese.

Press the sandwich with a heavy pan or a sandwich press for an even crispier crust and perfectly melted cheese.

FAQs

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwich ahead but it’s best to grill it fresh to maintain crispy bread and melted cheese. Prepare the salad in advance and store it separately.

What can I use if I can’t find Cuban bread?

Substitute Cuban bread with hoagie rolls, French bread, or even a sturdy baguette for similar texture and flavor.