Are you looking for a bold and satisfying way to change up your burger routine? The Cuban burger is an irresistible fusion of American comfort food and vibrant Cuban flavors. It has all the elements of a great sandwich—juicy meat, tangy toppings, and melted cheese—stacked high and packed with personality. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Cuban sandwich or looking to explore a new, flavorful way to build a burger, this recipe is for you.
Read on to learn what makes the Cuban burger unique, how to make it at home, and why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.
What is a Cuban burger?
A Cuban burger draws inspiration from the beloved Cuban sandwich, transforming it into a savory, stacked handheld masterpiece. It begins with a well-seasoned beef patty layered with flavorful ingredients like slow-roasted pork, thinly sliced ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and yellow mustard. The result? A burger that balances savory, smoky, creamy, and tangy notes with every bite.
It’s not just a burger with toppings; it’s a celebration of Cuban-style comfort food in burger form. Served on a toasted sesame bun, it offers the perfect mix of textures and temperatures, making it a standout on any menu or dinner table.
Ingredients you’ll need for a Cuban burger
Making your own Cuban burger at home is simple and rewarding. Here’s what you’ll need for each serving:
- 8 oz ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
- Pulled pork (homemade or leftover, ideally seasoned with citrus and garlic)
- Thin-sliced ham
- Swiss cheese
- Dill pickles (sliced lengthwise or into rounds)
- Yellow mustard
- Sesame seed hamburger bun (lightly toasted)
- Optional: sliced red onions, mojo sauce, or grilled plantains as toppings
Step-by-step Cuban burger recipe
- Prepare the pulled pork. If starting from scratch, season the pork shoulder with garlic, cumin, oregano, orange juice, and lime juice. Slow-cook until fork-tender, then shred. For a quicker option, use leftover pulled pork and warm it with citrus mojo sauce.
- Form and cook the patty: Gently form your ground beef into an 8 oz patty. Avoid overworking the meat to keep it tender. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Cook on a hot grill or skillet for about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on your preferred level of doneness.
- Toast the Bun: Butter the inside of the sesame bun and toast it in a pan or oven until golden. This adds crunch and prevents the bun from getting soggy from the toppings.
- Assemble the Burger
Begin with the bottom bun and layer the ingredients in the following order:
- A swipe of yellow mustard
- Sliced pickles
- Cooked beef patty
- Generous spoonful of pulled pork
- Sliced ham
- Swiss cheese (melted or torched until bubbly)
Top it off with the upper bun, press gently, and get ready to dig in.
- Serve it right: It pairs well with crispy fries, yuca chips, or a simple salad. The burger’s rich flavors pair beautifully with a cold, citrusy drink or a mojito.
Why these flavors work
The Cuban burger recipe is memorable because of its layering of complementary flavors and textures.
- The beef patty offers a juicy, umami-rich flavor.
- The pulled pork adds a savory, slow-cooked richness.
- Ham provides a salty bite that cuts through the fat.
- Swiss cheese adds creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Pickles and mustard provide acidity and brightness, balancing the richness.
Every ingredient serves a purpose, coming together to create a complete and satisfying dish with each bite. While the inspiration from the traditional Cuban sandwich is clear, this burger adds extra heft and satisfaction, making it perfect for a hearty meal.
A taste of Havana 1957
If you’re looking to try a professionally crafted version of this burger, check out Havana 1957, which offers its own take on this flavor-packed classic. Their Cuban Burger pays tribute to Cuban heritage and the American burger tradition. It features an 8-ounce ground beef patty topped with pulled pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on a sesame bun. Served with a choice of fries or salad, it’s a delicious option that brings the spirit of this fusion dish to life in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Reserve your table at Havana 1957 at the location of your choice:
Havana 1957 – Ocean Drive & 14th Street
Havana 1957 – Ocean Drive & 9th Street
Havana 1957 – Pembroke Pines Mall
Tips for burger success
Want to make your Cuban burger even better? Keep these pro tips in mind:
- For maximum flavor, use freshly ground beef if possible.
- Let the beef rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Toast the bun to improve its texture and help it withstand the moist toppings.
- Layer the ingredients strategically so that each bite includes a little bit of everything.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for an even sear and golden crust.
- After assembling, press lightly to create that irresistible pressed sandwich feel.
If you’re craving something bold and satisfying with Cuban flair, this burger recipe is just what you need. With savory meat, creamy cheese, and zesty toppings, this fusion dish doesn’t hold back on flavor. It’s perfect for cookouts, family dinners, or a weekend indulgence and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Whether you’re inspired by traditional Cuban flavors or just want to try something new, this burger offers the best of both worlds. Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a Cuban classic reimagined for the American palate.