Cuban Pulled Pork Ham Casserole

This creamy Cuban casserole brings all the flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich to your dinner table in one incredibly comforting bake. It is rich with tender pulled pork, smoky ham, tangy pickles, and melty Swiss cheese — all tucked beneath a golden, bubbly lid. I love that it gives me that pressed sandwich flavor without fussing with a hot griddle or specialty bread. It has been the star of many weeknight meals and has never let me down when serving friends who want something a bit different.

The first time I put this together it was an experiment with holiday leftovers and now I find myself looking for an excuse to make extra pork. The flavors meld beautifully and the pickles keep things lively.

Ingredients

• Pulled pork: Look for unsauced pork with tender strands and plenty of seasoning
• Ham: Seek out a quality deli ham with a little smoky edge and slice thick for best texture
• Swiss cheese: Hand shredding ensures a perfect melt and no pre-shredded additives
• Whipping cream: Go with fresh cream for the richest sauce that thickens as it bakes
• Cream cheese: Softened to blend smoothly and create that irresistible richness
• Yellow mustard: Classic Cuban tang avoid spicy or brown varieties for authentic flavor
• Dill pickles: Crunchy spears bring a sharp bite choose your favorite brand for best zing

Instructions

Make the Sauce:

Gently warm whipping cream, cream cheese, and yellow mustard in a large oven safe skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly with a spatula until the cream cheese is entirely melted and the sauce is silky and thick

Layer the Filling:

Add the pulled pork, sliced ham, half the dill pickles, and half of the shredded Swiss cheese to the skillet. Stir thoroughly so that all meats are coated in the creamy mustardy sauce

Add Toppings:

Sprinkle the rest of the Swiss cheese over the mixture along with the reserved pickles, creating a generous layer across the top

Bake the Casserole:

Place the skillet in a preheated 400 degree oven. Bake for about twenty minutes so the cheese melts fully and the casserole is bubbling hot and golden around the edges

Finish and Serve:

Let it rest outside the oven for five minutes so it sets up a bit. Top with extra pickle slices for a punchy finish

Swiss cheese is the backbone of this casserole for me. Its nutty flavor makes the dish taste complete and soothing after a long day. My kids always sneak a few extra slices which is why I always hand-shred a bit more than the recipe calls for.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Allow the casserole to cool fully before storing in the fridge covered tightly for up to four days. When reheating use a low oven or microwave at reduced power to preserve the creamy sauce. Freeze individual portions wrapped well for convenient lunches. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. If the sauce thickens too much after chilling add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to restore its silkiness.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Shredded rotisserie chicken works instead of pulled pork for a lighter twist with plenty of protein. Try Gruyere if you do not have Swiss cheese for a similar melt and depth. Bread and Butter pickles lend a subtle sweetness if you like a sweeter Cuban flavor profile.

Perfect Ways to Serve This

Spoon the casserole over toasted Cuban bread for a nod to the classic sandwich. Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions for color. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or a simple black bean side for a fully rounded meal.

I always look forward to making this casserole because every bite brings a wave of comfort food nostalgia and there is never a spoonful left at the end of the meal. Try it as your next centerpiece supper and watch it vanish.

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of pork works best?

Prepared pulled pork without sauce delivers the best texture and flavor for this savory bake.

→ Can I use pre-sliced deli ham?

Yes, simply dice the sliced ham into small pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole.

→ Does shredded cheese melt better if fresh?

Shredding Swiss cheese yourself ensures smoother melting, enhancing the dish's creamy texture.

→ What role do pickles play?

Sliced dill pickles add a tangy brightness that cuts through the creamy, rich flavors.

→ How do I serve this casserole?

Serve hot from the oven, garnished with extra pickles for a crisp, zesty topping.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can assemble and refrigerate before baking, then cook when ready to serve for convenience.