Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwiches

This hearty Cuban Garlic Bread Sandwich has become my weekend lunch ritual for good reason. The combination of garlic butter, melty cheese, and savory meats creates a sandwich experience that far surpasses your average deli fare.

I first made these sandwiches during a rainy Sunday when I craved something special without the fuss of a complicated meal. Now they've become my go-to whenever friends drop by unexpectedly or when I need a satisfying meal in minutes.

Ingredients

• Sub rolls soft inside crisp outside with that perfect chew that holds up to the fillings without getting soggy
• Garlic butter made with melted butter minced garlic parsley and salt creates the foundation of flavor that makes these sandwiches exceptional
• Shredded chicken turkey ham smoky savory and perfectly paired proteins that complement each other beautifully
• Swiss cheese melts beautifully with a nutty flavor that binds everything together
• Pickles crunchy and tangy adding brightness to cut through the richness
• Yellow mustard a zesty finish to balance the richness and bring everything together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rolls

Preheat oven to low broil. This gentle heat ensures the bread toasts evenly without burning. Slice rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through creating a hinged sandwich that holds fillings securely. Place cut side up on a baking sheet allowing maximum surface area for that delicious garlic butter.

Make Garlic Butter

In a small bowl mix melted butter minced garlic parsley and a pinch of salt until well combined. The warm butter helps infuse the garlic flavor throughout. Brush generously over the rolls ensuring every nook and cranny is covered for maximum flavor penetration.

Toast the Rolls

Broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the bread becomes lightly golden and crisp around the edges. Watch closely as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds. The goal is a crunchy exterior that still yields when you bite into it.

Make the Filling

On a cutting board combine shredded chicken turkey ham pickles and Swiss cheese. The chopping step is crucial here finely mincing everything together allows the flavors to meld and ensures each bite contains all elements. Stir in yellow mustard until well mixed creating a cohesive filling that stays put when you bite into the sandwich.

Assemble and Serve

Scoop the filling into the warm rolls and press slightly to help everything adhere. The heat from the freshly toasted bread will help melt the cheese further creating that perfect gooey texture. Serve immediately while hot and melty for the ultimate experience.

Bookmark

The garlic butter is honestly what makes these sandwiches special. I discovered its magic years ago when experimenting with leftover rotisserie chicken. My daughter who typically avoids sandwiches now requests these weekly which speaks volumes about how delicious they truly are.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the garlic butter up to three days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply bring it to room temperature before using so it spreads easily. The filling mixture can also be prepared earlier in the day and refrigerated until assembly time. This makes dinner prep even faster when you're ready to eat.

Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to customize these sandwiches based on what you have available. Leftover roast turkey works beautifully instead of shredded chicken. Provolone can substitute for Swiss cheese if you prefer a milder flavor profile. For a spicier version add a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling mixture or use spicy pickles instead of regular ones.

Serving Suggestions

These hearty sandwiches pair wonderfully with a light side like a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. The brightness helps balance the richness of the sandwich. For a more substantial meal serve alongside homemade potato chips or a cup of tomato soup for dipping. A cold beer or sparkling lemonade makes the perfect beverage companion.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use different meats in these sandwiches?

Absolutely! While traditional Cuban sandwiches use ham and roasted pork, you can substitute with whatever proteins you have on hand. Leftover roast beef, pulled pork, or even deli turkey would work well. The key is having a combination of meats for flavor complexity.

→ What's the best way to make the garlic butter?

For the best garlic butter, use softened (not fully melted) butter for easier spreading. Mix in freshly minced garlic rather than pre-packaged garlic for more vibrant flavor. Adding a pinch of salt helps bring out the garlic taste, while fresh parsley adds color and a hint of brightness.

→ How can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter and filling mixture in advance and refrigerate separately. When ready to serve, brush the rolls with garlic butter, toast them, and add the filling. For events, consider making a sandwich bar where guests can assemble their own from prepared components.

→ What sides pair well with these sandwiches?

These hearty sandwiches pair beautifully with crispy plantain chips, a simple green salad, or a light soup. For a more traditional Cuban experience, serve with yuca fries or black bean soup. A cold crisp pickle spear on the side adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich.

→ Can I make these sandwiches in a panini press?

Yes! While the original recipe calls for broiling the rolls, you can adapt it for a panini press. After brushing the rolls with garlic butter, add the filling, close the sandwich, and press until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melty—usually 3-4 minutes. This creates a more compact, extra-crispy sandwich.

→ Are there vegetarian options for this sandwich?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meats with roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Portobello mushrooms make an excellent meaty substitute. You can also add smashed black beans for protein and authentic Cuban flavor while keeping the garlic butter, pickles, and cheese elements.