Name: Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: For Mojo Turkey:; 1 cup Turkey; ½ cup fresh orange juice; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 4 cloves garlic; ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp dried oregano; For Cubanos:; 4 hoagie rolls; 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard; 8 ham; 8 swiss cheeses; 16 dill pickles; ½ unsalted butter

Transform your leftover ham into a delightful meal with this sheet pan Cubanos recipe. The combination of savory mojo turkey, melted Swiss cheese, and crisp dill pickles on toasted hoagie rolls will bring the flavors of a Cuban sandwich right to your table.

Photos of Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos Recipe

If you don't already have mojo turkey on hand, you might need to purchase a small amount of turkey and fresh orange juice. These are essential for creating the authentic Cuban flavor in this dish. Additionally, ensure you have Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and hoagie rolls, which might not be common pantry items.

Ingredients For Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos

turkey: Provides a different protein layer with a citrusy kick from the mojo marinade.

fresh orange juice: Adds sweetness and acidity to the mojo turkey.

fresh lime juice: Brings tanginess to the mojo turkey.

garlic: Infuses flavor into the mojo turkey.

kosher salt: Enhances the flavors in the mojo turkey.

dried oregano: Adds herbal notes to the mojo turkey.

hoagie rolls: The bread base for the Cubano sandwich.

yellow mustard: Traditional condiment for the Cubano sandwich.

ham: The main protein of the Cubano sandwich.

Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor.

dill pickles: Provides crunch and acidity.

unsalted butter: Helps crisp up the hoagie rolls in the oven.

One reader, Bendix Nutter says:

This leftover ham sheet pan cubanos recipe is a game-changer! The flavors meld perfectly, and the crispy, golden bread with melted cheese is irresistible. It's an easy, delicious way to use up leftover ham. Highly recommend!

Bendix Nutter

Techniques Required for Making Sheet Pan Cubanos

How to prepare mojo turkey: Combine turkey, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, salt, and oregano in a bowl and toss well. How to split hoagie rolls: Cut the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise. How to layer ingredients: Place ham, mojo turkey, swiss cheese, and dill pickles on the bottom half of each roll. How to brush with butter: Melt the butter and brush it on the top and bottom of each roll. How to compress sandwiches: Place another baking sheet on top of the sandwiches and use a cast iron skillet or heavy pan to press them down. How to bake: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and bake the sandwiches for 20 minutes until golden and crispy.

How To Make Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos

Got leftover ham? Then turn it into a sheet pan Cubanos dish with mojo turkey topped with full-flavored mustard and enclosed in a toasted hoagie roll.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Mojo Turkey:

1cupturkey,shredded
½cupfresh orange juice
2tbspfresh lime juice
4clovesgarlic,minced
½tspkosher salt
1tspdried oregano

For Cubanos:

4hoagie rolls
2tbspyellow mustard
8ham,slices, spiral cut
8swiss cheeses
16dill pickles
½unsalted butter,stick, melted

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Mojo Turkey:

Add the turkey, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, salt, and oregano to a large bowl. Toss well, then set aside.

Cubanos:

Split the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise and spread 1½ teaspoons of mustard over each roll.
On the bottom half of each roll, layer 2 slices of ham, ¼ of the mojo turkey, 2 slices of Swiss cheese, and 4 dill pickle chips.
Bring the sandwiches together and set on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush the top and bottom of each roll with the melted butter.
Place another baking sheet on top of the sandwiches and put a cast iron skillet or other heavy pan on top to compress the sandwiches.
Transfer to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, until the exterior of the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 29835.06kcal
Fat: 1708.15g
Saturated Fat: 574.25g
Trans Fat: 0.49g
Monounsaturated Fat: 806.35g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 207.57g
Carbohydrates: 718.19g
Fiber: 4.39g
Sugar: 6.36g
Protein: 2715.68g
Cholesterol: 9717.77mg
Sodium: 171920.14mg
Calcium: 1698.43mg
Potassium: 52583.73mg
Iron: 137.79mg
Vitamin A: 218.82µg
Vitamin C: 24.76mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos

To ensure your cubanos come out perfectly crispy and evenly cooked, make sure to evenly distribute the weight on top of the sandwiches. Using a cast iron skillet or another heavy pan helps press the sandwiches down, which not only compresses the ingredients for a more cohesive bite but also ensures the bread gets that desirable golden, crispy texture. If you don't have a heavy pan, you can use a couple of cans or another oven-safe heavy object to achieve the same effect.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos

Prepare the mojo turkey ahead: Marinate the turkey the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-slice ingredients: Have your ham, swiss cheese, and dill pickles pre-sliced and ready to go.

Use pre-made rolls: Opt for store-bought hoagie rolls to cut down on preparation time.

Melt butter in advance: Melt the unsalted butter while preheating the oven to streamline the process.

Assemble sandwiches in batches: Lay out all ingredients and assemble multiple cubanos at once to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos Recipe

Turkey - Substitute with chicken: Chicken has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable replacement for turkey in the mojo marinade.
Fresh orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice provides a similar sweetness and acidity, which complements the other ingredients in the mojo marinade.
Fresh lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar tartness and acidity, making it a good alternative to lime juice.
Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder flavor but still add a nice aromatic quality to the marinade.
Kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a suitable replacement for kosher salt.
Dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme offers a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor, which can work well in the marinade.
Hoagie rolls - Substitute with ciabatta rolls: Ciabatta rolls have a similar texture and can hold up well to the fillings and grilling process.
Yellow mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard provides a similar tangy flavor with a bit more complexity, making it a good alternative.
Ham - Substitute with roast pork: Roast pork is a traditional ingredient in Cubanos and offers a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar melting quality and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for Swiss cheese.
Dill pickles - Substitute with bread and butter pickles: Bread and butter pickles provide a similar crunch and a slightly sweeter flavor, which can add a nice contrast to the sandwich.
Unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for grilling the sandwiches, providing a similar richness without the dairy.

Best Way to Present Sheet Pan Cubanos

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the hoagie rolls into smaller, bite-sized portions to create elegant, manageable servings for the guests.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Layer with precision: Ensure each cubano is meticulously layered with ham, mojo turkey, swiss cheese, and dill pickles to showcase the distinct layers when sliced.
Plate with symmetry: Arrange the smaller portions symmetrically on a pristine white plate to highlight the golden, crispy exterior of the bread.
Add a dipping sauce: Serve a small ramekin of yellow mustard on the side for an added touch of flavor and sophistication.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure the ham and swiss cheese are of the finest quality to enhance the overall taste and presentation.
Highlight the textures: Emphasize the contrast between the crispy bread and the melted cheese by slicing the cubanos at an angle to reveal the textures.
Incorporate a side salad: Add a small, vibrant side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cubanos.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the dish on a sleek, modern platter to elevate the visual appeal and match the sophistication of a Michelin-starred presentation.
Finish with a drizzle: Lightly drizzle a bit of olive oil or a citrus reduction over the cubanos for an extra layer of flavor and a glossy finish.

Essential Tools for Making Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos

Oven: Used to preheat to 400 degrees F and bake the sandwiches until golden and crispy.
Large bowl: Used to mix the turkey, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, salt, and oregano for the mojo turkey.
Rimmed baking sheet: Used to place the assembled sandwiches on for baking.
Baking sheet: Placed on top of the sandwiches to help compress them during baking.
Cast iron skillet: Used as a weight on top of the baking sheet to press the sandwiches.
Knife: Used to split the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise.
Brush: Used to brush melted butter on the top and bottom of each roll.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the orange juice and lime juice.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, oregano, and mustard.
Garlic press: Used to crush the garlic cloves for the mojo turkey.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Sheet Pan Cubanos

To store leftover cubanos, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, remove the plastic wrap and place the sandwiches on a baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
For longer storage, you can freeze the leftover cubanos. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen cubanos, remove the plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. You may need to cover the sandwiches with foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent the bread from becoming too dark.
Alternatively, you can reheat frozen cubanos in a panini press or sandwich maker. Preheat the press and place the unwrapped sandwich inside. Press down firmly and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the bread is crispy.
If you have leftover mojo turkey, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can use it to make fresh cubanos or enjoy it in salads, wraps, or other dishes.

How To Reheat Leftover Cubanos

To reheat leftover ham sheet pan cubanos, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and loosely cover them with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the bread from becoming too crispy while allowing the interior to warm up nicely. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwiches are heated through.
Another option is to use a panini press or a skillet on the stovetop. Preheat the panini press or place a heavy skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, you may want to brush the exterior of the sandwiches with a little butter or olive oil to help them crisp up. Place the sandwiches in the press or skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the interior is warm.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through. Keep in mind that the bread may become slightly soft in the microwave, so if you prefer a crispy exterior, you can finish it off in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a minute or two.
If you have an air fryer, this can be a great way to reheat your cubanos while maintaining a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwiches in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sandwiches are heated through and the bread is crispy.

Interesting Fact About Cubano Sandwiches

A fun fact about this recipe is that it combines elements of traditional Cuban sandwiches with a creative twist by using leftover ham and mojo turkey. This fusion not only reduces food waste but also introduces a delightful mix of flavors that can be enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal.

Is Making Sheet Pan Cubanos at Home Cost-Effective?

This leftover ham sheet pan cubanos recipe is highly cost-effective, especially if you already have leftover ham and basic pantry items. The use of hoagie rolls, swiss cheese, and dill pickles are relatively inexpensive. The mojo turkey adds a flavorful twist without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $12-$15 USD.

Is This Cuban Sandwich Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The leftover ham sheet pan cubanos recipe is a delicious and convenient way to use up leftover turkey, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe includes processed meats like ham, which are high in sodium and may contain nitrates, linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.
Swiss cheese is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease when consumed in excess.
Hoagie rolls are typically made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain options.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of butter, adding extra saturated fat and calories.

However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe:

The mojo turkey marinade includes fresh citrus juices and garlic, which offer some vitamins and antioxidants.
Pickles provide a low-calorie crunch and some beneficial probiotics.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the ham with a leaner protein option, such as sliced chicken breast or roasted pork tenderloin.
Swap the swiss cheese for a lower-fat alternative, like part-skim mozzarella or provolone.
Use whole grain hoagie rolls to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace it with a healthier spread like mashed avocado or hummus.
Add some fresh vegetables to the sandwich, such as sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or roasted bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content.
Serve the sandwiches with a side salad or vegetable-based soup to round out the meal with more vitamins and minerals.

Editor's Opinion on This Leftover Ham Recipe

This recipe ingeniously repurposes leftover ham into a delightful Cuban sandwich. The mojo turkey adds a zesty twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Using a sheet pan to press and bake the sandwiches ensures a crispy exterior and perfectly melted cheese. The combination of ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles is classic, while the fresh citrus and garlic in the mojo marinade elevate the dish. It's a practical yet gourmet approach to leftovers, making it both convenient and delicious. A must-try for anyone looking to transform their leftovers into a culinary delight.

Enhance Your Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: Complement the savory and tangy flavors of your leftover ham sheet pan cubanos with a side of roasted sweet potato wedges. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes will balance the zestiness of the mojo turkey and the dill pickles, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Add a tropical twist to your meal with a vibrant grilled pineapple salsa. The pineapple's caramelized sweetness, combined with a hint of lime and a touch of jalapeño, will bring a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy cubanos.

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: For a touch of elegance and crunch, serve garlic parmesan green beans alongside your cubanos. The crisp green beans, coated in a savory garlic and parmesan blend, will add a sophisticated note to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up your taste buds with a comforting bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. The rich, velvety texture of the soup, infused with the aromatic flavors of basil and tomatoes, will perfectly complement the crispy and cheesy cubanos, making each bite even more satisfying.

Mango Avocado Salad: Brighten up your plate with a refreshing mango avocado salad. The creamy avocado and juicy mango, tossed with a light citrus vinaigrette, will add a burst of freshness and color to your meal, creating a delightful contrast to the hearty cubanos.

Similar Recipes to Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos

Cuban Sliders: Transform your leftover ham into delightful Cuban sliders. These mini sandwiches are packed with ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a tangy mustard spread. Perfect for a quick lunch or a party appetizer.

Ham and Cheese Stromboli: Roll up your ham and Swiss cheese in a pizza dough with a touch of mustard and pickles for a stromboli that’s bursting with Cuban flavors. Bake until golden and serve with a side of mojo dipping sauce.

Cuban Ham and Cheese Empanadas: Create flaky empanadas filled with ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and a hint of mustard. These handheld delights are perfect for a snack or a light meal, bringing a taste of Cuba to your table.

Cuban Ham and Pineapple Pizza: Top a pizza crust with ham, Swiss cheese, pineapple, and pickles for a Cuban-inspired twist on the classic Hawaiian pizza. Drizzle with mustard for an extra zing.

Cuban Ham and Cheese Quesadillas: Layer ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard between tortillas for a quesadilla that’s crispy on the outside and melty on the inside. Serve with a side of mojo sauce for dipping.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sheet Pan Cubanos

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and fill them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling paired with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms creates a delightful bite-sized treat that will leave your guests wanting more.

Shrimp Cocktail: Add a touch of elegance to your gathering with a classic shrimp cocktail. Poach large shrimp until tender and serve them chilled with a tangy cocktail sauce. For an extra burst of flavor, add a hint of horseradish and a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce. Arrange the shrimp around a bowl of the sauce on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This timeless appetizer is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate cake that oozes with a warm, gooey center when you cut into it. This decadent treat is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for an extra layer of indulgence. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience that your guests will love.

Lemon Meringue Pie: For a refreshing and tangy dessert, consider a lemon meringue pie. The zesty lemon curd filling is perfectly balanced by a light and fluffy meringue topping. Serve it chilled for a cool, citrusy finish to your meal. The combination of the tart lemon and the sweet meringue creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and invigorating.

Why trust this Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos Recipe:

This recipe combines the savory flavors of leftover ham and mojo turkey to create a delicious sheet pan Cubano. The use of fresh orange juice and lime juice in the marinade ensures a burst of citrusy goodness, while the garlic and oregano add depth. The hoagie rolls are perfectly crisped in the oven, and the Swiss cheese melts beautifully. This recipe is a great way to repurpose leftovers into a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy and satisfying.

Have you tried this Leftover Ham Sheet Pan Cubanos Recipe? Discuss your experience and share your own twists in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of bread instead of hoagie rolls?

Absolutely! You can use any sturdy bread like ciabatta or baguette. Just make sure it's something that can hold up to the fillings and the pressing.

What if I don't have a cast iron skillet to press the sandwiches?

No worries! You can use any heavy pan or even a brick wrapped in foil. The goal is to compress the sandwiches so they get that nice, crispy exterior.

Can I substitute the turkey with something else?

Yes, you can use chicken or even more ham if you prefer. The mojo marinade will work well with either.

How do I melt the butter for brushing the rolls?

You can melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals until fully melted.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prep the sandwiches and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just make sure to press and bake them right before serving for the best texture.