Cuban Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

If you’re craving something that hits all the right notes — tangy, savory, melty, and just downright joyful in every bite — then my Cuban Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Seriously, these little sliders pack a punch with layers of tender pulled pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a buttery, garlicky topping all nestled inside sweet Hawaiian rolls. It’s like a party in your mouth, perfect for game day, casual gatherings, or just treating yourself on a lazy weekend afternoon.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

I love how all the ingredients in this Cuban Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe come together for rich, layered tastes and textures. A few key tips: grab sweet Hawaiian rolls for that soft sweetness, and if you can, get seasoned shredded pork already cooked to save time.

• Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls: Their soft, slightly sweet flavor balances the savory fillings perfectly.
• Dijon-style mustard: Adds just the right tang and a little bite that cuts through richness.
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings a deep umami note that complements the pork and cheese.
• Deli ham: A nice salty layer that pairs beautifully with the pulled pork.
• Cooked pulled pork: Tender and flavorful, it’s the star of the show—homemade or store-bought works.
• Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and has a mild, nutty flavor that balances the sandwich.
• Dill pickle chips: Their crunch and acidity brighten up every bite.
• Unsalted butter: Used twice — melted for the sauce and for that buttery topping glaze.
• Dried minced garlic and onion: Infuse the butter topping with savory aromatic goodness.
• Poppy seeds: Adds a subtle crunch and a bit of nuttiness in the buttery crust.
• Flaky sea salt: Provides bursts of salty texture on top; just a few flakes go a long way.

Make It Your Way

One of the joys of this Cuban Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe is how easy it is to customize! Whether you want to swap ham for turkey, or sneak in a spicy kick, feel free to experiment—it’s been my go-to for making family meals a little more fun.

• Spicy Variation: I tried adding a little chipotle mayo instead of mustard once, and wow—the smoky heat took these sliders to a new level.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap pulled pork for jackfruit seasoned with smoky spices for a plant-based spin that still hits the texture notes.
• Cheese Swap: If you don’t have Swiss, provolone or a mild cheddar works well too—just keep the melty softness.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls or slider buns, and double-check Worcestershire sauce ingredients so everyone can enjoy.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cuban Pulled Pork Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Rolls and Oven

First things first — preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking spray so nothing sticks later. Then, unwrap your Hawaiian rolls and slice them horizontally in one clean cut through all the rolls, keeping them connected like a big sandwich sheet. This is easier with a sharp serrated knife—take it slow to avoid smashing those soft buns.

Step 2: Mix the Mustard Sauce and Layer

In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and about 3 tablespoons of melted butter (let it cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the mustard). Spread half of this saucy goodness on the bottom half of your rolls in the baking dish, and the other half on the top half. This sauce gives the sliders their signature tang and buttery richness.

Next, layer half your Swiss cheese slices evenly on the bottom rolls. Add the ham, then pile on the tender pulled pork (make sure it’s well drained if you’re using homemade), and scatter on the dill pickle chips. Finish with the rest of the Swiss cheese on top for that glorious gooey melt. Press down gently to even everything out.

Step 3: Bake and Add the Topping

Pop the pan in the oven — but for the first 10 minutes, leave the top rolls off so the cheese melts and the pork heats through nicely. After that, take the pan out and carefully place the top rolls on.