Why You’ll Love this Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich Casserole
If you’ve ever craved the mouthwatering flavors of a Cuban sandwich but wanted something more substantial for dinner, this casserole is about to become your new favorite meal.
I love how it transforms those classic Cuban sandwich elements—ham, sausage (standing in for traditional pork), cheese, mustard, and pickles—into a hearty, one-pan rice dish that feeds the whole family.
What makes this version special? The chicken-apple sausage adds a subtle sweetness, while the cilantro brings freshness to each bite.
It’s comfort food with a Miami twist, ready in under 30 minutes. No sandwich press required.
What Ingredients are in Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich Casserole?
This Miami-style Cuban sandwich casserole brings together all the beloved flavors of a traditional Cuban sandwich, transformed into a hearty rice dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
The ingredient list might look lengthy at first glance, but don’t worry—most are pantry staples that create layers of flavor as they simmer together. Each component plays an essential role in recreating that authentic Cuban sandwich taste in casserole form.
- 4 ounces chunk mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
- 6 ounces chicken-apple sausages (or 2-3 links)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 ounces cooked ham, cubed
- 1 (7 ounce) box chicken rice pilaf mix
- 1/2 teaspoon complete seasoning
- 2 1/2 cups water, divided
- 1/4 cup dill relish
- 1 teaspoon mustard
A few notes about ingredient flexibility—while traditional Cuban sandwiches use Swiss cheese, this casserole calls for mozzarella which melts beautifully into the rice.
The chicken-apple sausage provides a clever substitute for traditional roast pork, adding a hint of sweetness that works wonderfully with the savory ham.
Can’t find complete seasoning? A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cumin makes a decent substitute.
And remember, the quality of your ham matters—a good deli ham with some smokiness will elevate the entire dish.
How to Make this Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich Casserole
Preparing this casserole is surprisingly straightforward, even for those of us who might get overwhelmed by too many steps. Start by doing your prep work: cube 4 ounces of mozzarella cheese into small pieces, coarsely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, and cut 6 ounces of chicken-apple sausages into bite-sized pieces. This advance prep makes the cooking process much smoother. Who doesn’t love the satisfaction of having everything ready to go?
Now for the actual cooking. Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, then add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Toss in your sausage pieces along with 4 ounces of cubed ham, and cook them for 2-3 minutes until they develop a nice light brown color. This step is essential for flavor development, giving the meat that beautiful caramelization that adds depth to the final dish. For larger batches, a commercial food processor can significantly cut down your prep time.
Next, stir in the rice seasoning packet (from your 7-ounce box of chicken rice pilaf) and 1/2 teaspoon of complete seasoning. Add 1/2 cup of water, cooking and stirring for just 1-2 minutes to create a flavorful base. Now incorporate the rice itself, 1/4 cup of dill relish, 1 teaspoon of mustard, 1 tablespoon of cilantro, and the remaining 2 cups of water.
The final phase is where patience pays off. Cover the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer undisturbed for 20-22 minutes. Seriously, no peeking—keeping the lid on is the secret to perfectly tender rice that absorbs all those Cuban sandwich flavors.
Once the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed, stir in those mozzarella cubes you prepared earlier, watching them melt into gooey pockets throughout the casserole. Finish with a sprinkle of the remaining tablespoon of cilantro for a fresh pop of color and flavor, then serve it up while it’s hot. The result? A one-pan wonder that transforms the classic Cuban sandwich into a comforting, family-friendly casserole.
Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich Casserole Substitutions and Variations
Looking to put your own spin on this delicious Cuban sandwich casserole? I’ve got some easy swaps that’ll make this dish your own.
You can substitute Swiss cheese for mozzarella for a more authentic Cuban sandwich flavor. Not a fan of chicken-apple sausage? Traditional roast pork works beautifully. Vegetarians might try plant-based ham and sausage alternatives.
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Brown rice can replace the pilaf mix—just adjust your seasonings accordingly. And if you’re out of dill relish, chopped dill pickles work perfectly, or try bread and butter pickles for a sweeter note.
What to Serve with Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich Casserole
Now that you’ve got the recipe basics down, let’s talk about perfect pairings for your Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich Casserole.
I always recommend a crisp green salad with a tangy citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese and meats.
Fried plantains make an ideal side—sweet, caramelized goodness that complements the savory casserole.
Can you imagine that contrast? Divine.
For beverages, try a cold mojito or Cuba Libre if you’re feeling festive, or simply a cold lager beer.
Sparkling water with lime works beautifully for non-alcoholic options.
Fresh tropical fruit for dessert rounds everything out perfectly.
Final Thoughts
After you’ve savored this Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich Casserole, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved fusion dish in my kitchen.
The magic lies in how it transforms classic Cuban sandwich elements into a comforting one-pot meal. Those melty mozzarella cubes, savory ham, and chicken-apple sausage create the perfect balance of flavors.
The cilantro and mustard? Non-negotiable for that authentic Miami twist.
What I love most is its versatility—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Can you imagine a more satisfying way to enjoy Cuban flavors without the fuss? Simply delicious.
