If you have been on the lookout for a sandwich that combines bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a slice of Cuban culinary tradition, you are in for a treat with this Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe. This delightful twist on the classic Cuban sandwich swaps out the usual pork for tender turkey breast, making it a lighter yet equally mouthwatering option. With layers of melty Swiss cheese, tangy dill pickles, and a spread of zesty yellow mustard nestled in crisp, buttery Cuban bread, every bite is a perfect balance of savory, sour, and toasty goodness. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a comforting meal, this sandwich is sure to hit all the right notes and become your new favorite go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create its irresistible flavor and texture. Every component plays a role, from the crunch of the pickles to the richness of the melted Swiss cheese, making this recipe both straightforward and satisfying.
- Cuban bread (4 slices): The foundation of this sandwich, Cuban bread’s soft interior and crispy crust bring authentic texture that holds all fillings together.
- Turkey breast (6 oz, thinly sliced): Lean and flavorful, turkey makes this version a lighter alternative while keeping it hearty.
- Swiss cheese (4 slices): Melts beautifully, adding a creamy, slightly nutty contrast to the other bold flavors.
- Ham (2 oz, thinly sliced, optional): Adds a traditional touch and extra savoriness for those who love classic Cuban sandwiches.
- Dill pickles (1/4 cup, thinly sliced): Bring a refreshing tang and crunch that cuts through the richness.
- Yellow mustard (2 tablespoons): Adds a bright, zesty kick, perfectly balancing the sandwich.
- Butter (2 teaspoons, softened): Essential for crisping the bread to golden perfection.
How to Make Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the bread
Start by slicing your Cuban bread lengthwise—this gives the sandwich the classic shape and texture. Lightly butter the outside of the bread slices; trust me when I say this little bit of butter is key to achieving that satisfyingly crispy and golden crust every sandwich lover dreams of.
Step 2: Layer it up
Next, spread yellow mustard evenly on the inside of both bread slices. This zesty spread adds a necessary punch of flavor. Then layer your turkey breast, followed by ham if you’re including it, Swiss cheese, and finally, thinly sliced dill pickles. Each layer builds complexity, balancing savory, creamy, and tangy notes for a multidimensional bite.
Step 3: Press to impress
Now, close your sandwich and press it down firmly using a sandwich press or a heavy skillet. Cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread transforms to a beautiful golden brown and the cheese melts gooey and irresistible. This step is where the magic happens, fusing all those fantastic tastes and textures into one harmonious creation.
Step 4: Slice and serve
Once your Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe is perfectly crisped and melty, slice it diagonally. Serving it hot allows you to savor the full spectrum of flavors and textures—crispy bread, melted cheese, and savory fillings in one unbeatable bite.
How to Serve Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your sandwich experience, consider adding a few extra garnishes like a handful of fresh arugula for peppery crunch or a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper to add depth. These simple touches can enhance the sandwich without stealing the spotlight from those classic Cuban flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair your sandwich with traditional Cuban sides or easy accompaniments: crispy plantain chips, a fresh mango salsa, or even a side of black bean salad work beautifully. These sides bring complementary sweetness, brightness, and texture that highlight your Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next gathering? Try cutting your sandwiches into smaller sliders for sharing, or serve alongside a stack of colorful pickled vegetables for contrast. You can also swap Cuban bread for baguette-style bread or even wrap the filling in a warm flatbread for a handheld wrap twist—there are endless ways to make this sandwich your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cuban Turkey Sandwich, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate it within two hours of making it. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first day to retain crispness.
Freezing
While freezing a pressed sandwich like this can be tricky because of the bread texture, you can freeze the components separately. Wrap and freeze extra turkey, sliced pickles, or even prepared mustard spread in small containers, then assemble fresh when you’re ready for a quick sandwich fix.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-pressed goodness, reheat your leftover sandwich in a hot skillet or sandwich press for a few minutes on each side. This will help re-crisp the bread and remelt the cheese without drying it out like a microwave would.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for the Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! While Cuban bread is traditional and ideal because of its crispy crust and soft interior, French or Italian bread makes a good substitute. Just make sure it’s fresh and can hold up well to pressing and buttering.
Is it necessary to use ham in the sandwich?
No, the ham is optional in this Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe. The turkey and Swiss cheese alone create a satisfying flavor, but adding ham gives a classic Cuban touch if you want to stick closer to the original inspiration.
What’s the best way to slice the pickles?
Thin slices are best because they evenly distribute the tangy crunch without overwhelming the other flavors. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer helps achieve consistent thinness for the perfect pickle bite.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the turkey and ham for grilled vegetables like zucchini, roasted peppers, and portobello mushrooms, and keep the Swiss cheese and pickles. The mustard and buttered grilled bread will still create a delicious sandwich experience.
How long does it take to make the Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe?
This entire sandwich comes together in about 18 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for busy weeknights or whenever the craving strikes. Its simplicity is part of what makes it so wonderful!
Final Thoughts
This Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe is more than just a sandwich—it’s a flavor-packed escape to the vibrant tastes of Cuba with a fresh and approachable twist. Perfect for any occasion, easy to prepare, and utterly delicious, I encourage you to give this recipe a try and discover why it’s such a beloved favorite. Happy sandwich-making!
Print
Cuban Turkey Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cuban
Description
This Cuban Turkey Sandwich is a quick and delicious twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, featuring thinly sliced turkey breast, Swiss cheese, ham, and dill pickles layered inside lightly buttered Cuban bread. Pressed to golden, crispy perfection with melted cheese, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread
- 4 slices Cuban bread (or French/Italian loaf, about 6 inches each)
Meat and Cheese
- 6 oz (170g) thinly sliced turkey breast
- 2 oz (56g) thinly sliced ham (optional)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
Condiments and Extras
- 1/4 cup (60g) dill pickles, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons butter (softened)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Slice your Cuban bread lengthwise and lightly butter the outside of each slice. This will help achieve a deliciously golden and crispy crust during cooking.
- Layer it up: Spread yellow mustard evenly on the inside surfaces of both bread slices. Then layer the thinly sliced turkey breast, ham if using, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles on one slice.
- Press to impress: Close the sandwich by placing the other slice on top. Use a sandwich press or a heavy skillet to press the sandwich down firmly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Slice and serve: Remove the sandwich from the press or skillet, cut it diagonally into halves, and serve immediately while it is hot and crispy for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Using Cuban bread authenticates the sandwich, but French or Italian loaf can be good alternatives.
- Softened butter spreads more easily and ensures an even crust on the bread.
- The ham is optional but adds a nice layer of flavor for those who enjoy it.
- If you do not have a sandwich press, a heavy skillet or even a brick wrapped in foil can be used to press the sandwich effectively.
- Serve immediately for the best enjoyment as the sandwich is best when hot and melty.
