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Cuban-Style Smash Sandwiches

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These Cuban-Style Smash Sandwiches combine the bold flavors of a classic Cubano with crispy smash-style patties, smoky ham, Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and creamy mustard aioli. Toasted bread and quick-pickled avocado and onion make every bite savory, crunchy, and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Dill pickle chips with brine
  • Orange, lime, or lemon zest
  • Dried oregano
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Kosher salt
  • Ground cumin
  • Black pepper
  • Lean ground beef, ground pork, or a combination
  • Vegetable oil
  • Black Forest ham slices
  • Swiss cheese slices
  • Cuban bread or crusty French bread
  • Mayonnaise
  • Yellow mustard
  • Fresh garlic, minced
  • Sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine the sliced red onion and avocado in a bowl. Pour pickle brine over them and refrigerate while preparing the remaining ingredients.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the citrus zest, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, cumin, and black pepper.
  3. Add the ground meat and gently mix until the seasonings are evenly incorporated.
  4. Flatten the meat into a large rectangle about 1/4-inch thick and divide it into 4 equal portions sized to fit the bread.
  5. Heat a griddle or large skillet over high heat and lightly coat with vegetable oil.
  6. Cook the meat portions until deeply browned and crispy, flipping once.
  7. Top each patty with dill pickle chips, a slice of Black Forest ham, and Swiss cheese. Cover briefly until the cheese melts completely.
  8. Prepare the Golden Aioli by mixing the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, minced garlic, and sugar until smooth.
  9. Spread the aioli generously over the cut sides of the bread.
  10. Place each cheesy patty on the bottom half of the bread and top with the drained pickled onion and avocado.
  11. Close each sandwich and press lightly on the hot griddle until the bread is golden brown and crispy on both sides.
  12. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use all ground beef, all ground pork, or a combination for the patties.
  • Add roasted pork for an even more traditional Cuban sandwich flavor.
  • Substitute pepper jack or provolone for the Swiss cheese if desired.
  • Store cooked patties separately from the bread and toppings for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months in an airtight container and thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat patties in a skillet and assemble with fresh bread before toasting for the best texture.
  • Serve with fries, chips, coleslaw, black bean salad, or a green salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/cuban-style-smash-sandwiches/