Cuban Medianoche

This authentic Cuban Medianoche Sandwich recipe is a treasured family tradition my father, a chef in Cuba, made for us every weekend – a perfect pressed sandwich that combines sweet egg bread with savory roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard for an irresistible sweet and savory flavor combination.

The Cuban medianoche (which means "midnight" in Spanish) is a beloved staple of Cuban cuisine that differs from the classic Cuban sandwich in just one way: it uses soft, slightly sweet medianoche bread instead of traditional Cuban bread, creating a uniquely delicious contrast between the sweet rolls and savory fillings.

I've been enjoying this easy Cuban sandwich for nearly 40 years, and my father's simple technique for pressing it to golden perfection with melted cheese makes it the ultimate lunch or late-night snack. Whether you're using leftover lechon (Cuban roast pork) or starting fresh, this pressed Cuban sandwich is ready in just 15 minutes and perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying those midnight cravings that gave this iconic sandwich its name.

I’ve been eating this media noche sandwich for the better part of 40 years. It’s a go-to lunch sandwich in Cuban cuisine and a must when you have leftover lechon. I grew up enjoying this sandwich being made by my dad who was a Cuban chef. This was the perfect weekend lunch that was easy to make and delicious.

Why you'll love this Cuban media noche sandwich

• Perfect sandwich for lunch or a snack.
• Can be made to feed a large crowd.
• Great for people who love a sweet and savory combination.
• Ready in 15 minutes.

What's the difference between a Cuban sandwich and a Media Noche?

The main (and only) difference between a traditional Cuban Sandwich and a Medianoche sandwich is the bread used. Cuban sandwiches use traditional Cuban bread while media noches use a sweet egg bread similar to Challah.

Medianoche Ingredients

• Lechon (mojo pork)
• Deli ham
• Swiss cheese slices
• Dijon Mustard or yellow mustard
• Pickle slices
• Medianoche bread rolls

Equipment you'll need to make this Cuban midnight sandwich

The best thing for this sandwich is a panini press.

How to make a Cuban Medianoche Sandwich

1. Carefully slice your sweet medianoche rolls in half and spread the mustard on the bottom half of the rolls.

2. Over the mustard place the swiss cheese and pickles.

3. Over the pickles, place the ham slices and lechon pulled pork. Place the top of the medianoche bread roll over the sandwich.

4. Melt butter in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to spread the butter over the top of the rolls.

5. Place the sandwich inside your panini press and set to medium high. Cook until both sides are golden and cheese is melted.

6. Remove from the panini press and enjoy immediately

Variations/Substitutions for the media noche sandwich

• Can't find media noche rolls? The closest option is actually challah bread or any sweet egg bread.
• Don't have a panini press? Place the sandwich on a nonstick large skillet and place it on the stovetop at medium low heat. Place a cast iron skillet or another heavy skillet over the top of the sandwich and press down gently. Once the bottom is golden and toasted, carefully flip the sandwich over to brown the other side.

What to serve with this Cuban medianoche

• Yuca Fries
• Queso Frito
• White rice and black beans
• Chicharrones
• Avocado Salad

Storing a Medianoche Cuban Sandwich

Have some left over media noche sandwich? Store it in an airtight container for upto days. Reheat in a toaster oven or eat it cold.

Check out these Cuban other recipes