Irresistible Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders Recipe to Savor

Recipe By:
Melisa Egan
Updated:

Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders are the kind of dish that make you feel like you’re lounging on a sun-soaked beach in Havana, even if you’re just sitting in your kitchen wearing pajamas. Imagine tender, flavorful pork infused with zesty spices, all sandwiched between soft slider buns that practically beg to be devoured. The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” before they even set foot through the door.

These sliders are not just a meal; they are an experience wrapped in a warm embrace of flavor. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual family dinners, they promise to be a hit! Get ready to dive into a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious—just like a good vacation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders offer the perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors, making every bite unforgettable.
  • The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy your day while dinner cooks itself.
  • Visually appealing with their golden buns and vibrant toppings, these sliders will steal the show at any gathering.
  • They’re versatile enough to serve as appetizers or a main course for any occasion!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for slow cooking due to its fat content which makes the meat tender and juicy.
  • Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish; choose a yellow onion for best results.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic superstar!
  • Cuban Seasoning: A blend of cumin, oregano, and paprika gives these sliders their signature taste; consider making your own mix!
  • Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness and balances out the richness of the pork.
  • Slider Buns: Choose soft and fluffy buns; they should be able to hold all that delicious filling without falling apart.
  • Pickle Chips: Tangy pickles add crunch and acidity, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of the pork.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders

How to Make Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Pork

Start by trimming excess fat from your boneless pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks to fit easily into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a pan over medium heat, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant. This step adds layers of flavor that will enhance your sliders.

Step 3: Mix Marinade

In a bowl, combine Cuban seasoning with orange juice. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker along with the sautéed onions and garlic.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for about eight hours or until the pork shreds easily with a fork. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 5: Shred and Assemble

Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with all those delicious juices for maximum flavor.

Step 6: Build Your Sliders

Toast your slider buns lightly for extra texture. Add generous amounts of shredded pork followed by pickle chips on each bun.

Transfer to plates and serve warm for an irresistible treat everyone will love! Enjoy these Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders at your next gathering or cozy night in; they’re sure to impress!

You Must Know

  • These Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders are not just a meal; they’re a fiesta in your mouth.
  • Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, these sliders will make you the hit of any gathering.
  • So grab your slow cooker, and let’s get this party started!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning your pork shoulder with spices and letting it marinate for at least an hour. Sear it in a hot pan for flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add onions, garlic, and your favorite sauce before setting it on low for about 8 hours.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pork for shredded chicken or beef if you prefer. Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika to kick things up a notch. Top with pickles, cheese, or even jalapeños for that extra zing!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or oven until warmed through, keeping that juicy goodness intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly tender pork, don’t rush the marinating process; let those flavors soak in overnight if you can.
  • Always shred the meat while it’s still warm for easier handling.
  • And remember to keep toppings simple so as not to overpower the delicious filling!

Sometimes I whip up these Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders for family get-togethers, and they disappear faster than you can say “delicious.” Watching everyone enjoy them brings me so much joy!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders?

To make delicious Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders, you need a few key ingredients. Start with slider rolls, which serve as the base. You’ll also require cooked pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard for that authentic Cuban flavor. Additionally, don’t forget to have some butter and garlic for brushing on top of the sliders. This combination creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for parties or casual family dinners.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders?

Cooking Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender pork and melted cheese. You can prepare them in advance and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your day. Just ensure that you check the sliders occasionally for optimal cooking.

Can I use other meats in Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different meats for your Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders. While traditional recipes often use pork, feel free to substitute with chicken or beef based on your preference. Each option brings its own unique flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so that the meat remains tender and juicy throughout the process.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders?

Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement their rich flavors. Consider serving them with crispy plantain chips or a refreshing citrus salad for balance. Coleslaw also makes a great side, adding crunch and freshness to your meal. Additionally, sweet potato fries provide a delicious contrast and are easy to make alongside your sliders.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders:

Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress any crowd. By using simple yet flavorful ingredients like pork, Swiss cheese, and mustard, you create an irresistible dish that’s perfect for gatherings or family meals. The slow cooking method ensures that each slider is tender and deliciously satisfying. Don’t hesitate to try different meat options or pair them with tasty sides to elevate your dining experience even further!

Print

Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders

Slow Cooker Cuban Sliders are a mouthwatering blend of tender, juicy pork slow-cooked with zesty spices and nestled in soft slider buns. Perfect for game day or family gatherings, these sliders offer a taste of Havana that will leave everyone craving more. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll have a festive dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 480 minutes
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Cuban

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lb boneless pork shoulder
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp Cuban seasoning
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 12 soft slider buns
  • 1 cup pickle chips

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks.
  2. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a pan over medium heat until fragrant.
  3. In a bowl, mix Cuban seasoning with orange juice; pour over the pork in the slow cooker along with the sautéed onions and garlic.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork shreds easily with a fork.
  5. Shred the pork in the slow cooker and mix well with juices.
  6. Lightly toast slider buns, then assemble by adding shredded pork and pickle chips.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, marinate the pork shoulder for an hour before cooking. You can substitute pork with shredded chicken or beef based on your preference. Top sliders with cheese or jalapeños for added zest.

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