Cuban
Medianoche
A late-night Cuban pressed sandwich made on soft, slightly sweet egg bread with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. The bread turns glossy and crisp on the plancha while the cheese melts into the warm pork.
Watch it madeAlex Rios · 1:02
Ingredients
- Medianoche rolls or soft sweet egg sandwich rolls2
- Cuban roast pork, thinly sliced6 oz
- Sweet ham, thinly sliced4 oz
- Swiss cheese4 slices
- Dill pickle slices8 to 10
- Yellow mustard2 tbsp
- Unsalted butter, softened1 tbsp
Method
- Heat a plancha, sandwich press, or heavy skillet over medium heat.
- Split the medianoche rolls lengthwise without fully separating the halves.
- Spread the inside of each roll with yellow mustard.
- Layer each sandwich with Swiss cheese, roast pork, ham, pickle slices, and another slice of Swiss cheese.
- Close the sandwiches and spread the outside tops and bottoms lightly with softened butter.
- Place the sandwiches on the hot plancha and press firmly with a sandwich press or a heavy pan.
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing throughout, until the bread is deeply golden, flattened, and crisp and the cheese is melted.
- Cut each sandwich diagonally and serve hot.
Common questions
Can I substitute the medianoche rolls if I can’t find them?
Yes. Use soft, slightly sweet Cuban bread, brioche rolls, or Hawaiian-style sandwich rolls. Choose something tender that presses well; avoid crusty artisan bread, which won’t flatten properly or give the classic soft-crisp texture.
How long does it take to make a medianoche sandwich from start to finish?
Plan on about 15 to 20 minutes if the pork is already cooked and sliced. The actual pressing and browning takes 6 to 8 minutes total, plus a few minutes to assemble the sandwiches.
What are the most common mistakes when making a medianoche?
Using too much filling, skipping the butter on the outside, or not pressing hard enough are the biggest mistakes. Also avoid too much mustard or wet pickles, which can make the bread soggy and prevent good browning.
Can I make medianoche sandwiches ahead of time or store leftovers?
They’re best fresh, but leftovers can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or sandwich press over medium-low heat until warmed through and crisp again; avoid the microwave, which makes them soft.
What should I serve with a medianoche sandwich?
Serve it hot with potato sticks, plantain chips, fries, or a simple green salad. For a classic feel, pair with a café con leche or a cold Cuban soda. The sandwich is rich, so keep sides light and crisp.