Name: Cuban Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 4 cups prepared pulled pork (not with sauce or carnitas); 8 ounces sliced ham (cut into small pieces); 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (shredded yourself for better melting); 1 cup whipping cream; 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); ¼ cup yellow mustard; 1 cup sliced dill pickles; Additional pickles for garnish

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Introduction

Cuban Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender pulled pork, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering, this easy casserole combines rich flavors with a tangy twist from dill pickles.

This image shows a skillet dish that has three main visible layers. The bottom layer looks like a cooked yellow egg base, thick and solid, filling the skillet. On top of that is a thick white cheese layer, melted evenly with small brown spots from baking. The top layer consists of many slices of green pickles spread out over the cheese, adding color contrast and texture. The skillet is black cast iron, sitting on a wooden board, with a white marbled surface underneath. Near the skillet, part of a white plate and a black and white patterned cloth are visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups prepared pulled pork (not with sauce or carnitas)
8 ounces sliced ham (cut into small pieces)
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (shredded yourself for better melting)
1 cup whipping cream
4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup yellow mustard
1 cup sliced dill pickles
Additional pickles for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, combine the whipping cream, cream cheese, and mustard. Stir and heat until a smooth sauce forms and the cream cheese is melted.
Step 3: Add the pulled pork, diced ham, half the pickles, and half the shredded Swiss cheese to the sauce. Stir to combine evenly.
Step 4: Top the mixture with the remaining Swiss cheese and pickles.
Step 5: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F and bake the casserole for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with additional pickles if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly shredded Swiss cheese for better melting and a creamier texture.
Swap yellow mustard for Dijon mustard to add a sharper flavor.
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use a cast iron skillet for even heating and a nice crust on the bottom.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking. The casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

This image shows a baked dish in a black cast iron skillet on a white marbled surface with a wooden board beneath it. The dish has three visible layers: the bottom layer is golden yellow, likely fluffy eggs or a custard base, topped with a middle layer of melted white cheese with a slightly golden-brown bubbly texture. On the top layer, evenly spaced, there are green pickle slices with a slight shine, giving the dish a decorative look. The edges of the dish near the skillet are slightly browned and crisp. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Swiss cheese works best for its flavor and meltability, but you can substitute Gruyère or mozzarella if preferred.