Keto Cubano Chaffle Sandwich (Broiled, Not Pressed)

This is what I call a chaffwich, a sandwich built on a chaffle instead of bread. Keto Cubano chaffle sandwich uses my own sourdough chaffle recipe as the base, layered with ham, roast pork, pickles, and Swiss cheese.

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A real Cubano gets pressed and weighted down in a hot pan, but chaffles are more delicate and do not hold up well to that treatment.

I do not claim this is authentic, real Cuban bread is the traditional choice, but this chaffle version is genuinely tasty in its own right.

Chef Jenn’s Take on Cubano Chaffle Sandwich

Broiling this open-faced for a minute or two, rather than pressing it in a hot pan the traditional way, is the real solution I landed on for a chaffle base. Chaffles are more delicate than real bread and do not hold up well to that kind of pressure.

You can still warm the finished sandwich in a pan if you would rather, just be gentle with it, chaffles break more easily than you might expect. The broiler method melts the cheese through without putting the sandwich at risk of falling apart in the process.

Whether you use regular yellow mustard or a fancier Dijon is entirely up to you, I am not claiming this is an authentic recipe, so use whatever you already have on hand.

Rumor has it the original Cubano sandwich was created in Southern Florida, a way for immigrant workers to enjoy a filling lunch, though I have not independently verified that history myself. Pork is a genuinely great source of protein and a solid keto choice either way.

What You’ll Love About Cubano Chaffle Sandwich

• Ready in about 15 minutes, a solid solo lunch option.
• A genuine chaffwich, built on a chaffle instead of bread.
• Broiled open-faced, so the cheese melts without the sandwich falling apart.

Ingredients

• Sourdough chaffles – Two, homemade from your own chaffle recipe.haffles
• Ham – Sliced.
• Roasted pork – Sliced.
• Pickles – The dillier the better, or go with a sweet and tangy version like these keto pickles.
• Mustard – Yellow or Dijon, whichever you prefer.
• Swiss cheese – Sliced.

How To Make This Keto Sandwich

Scroll down for the full recipe card with exact measurements and printable instructions.

Spread the mustard evenly on both chaffles. Top one chaffle with the ham, roast pork, pickles, and cheese. Broil open-faced for a few minutes to melt the cheese, then top with the second chaffle and serve.

Make It A Meal

I’m a big fan of soups and sandwiches, so when I make this keto pork recipe I love pairing it with a hearty soup. Wonton soup is one of my favorites, or a delish bowl of Shrimp & Chipotle Chowder.

Salads are another tasty pick with keto lunch recipes, and they don’t have to be fancy or involved like this Cobb Salad. Just a handful of greens and a delish Ranch Dressing will have you all set and ready to go!

Storage

The original post does not include storage guidance, so here is a reasonable, honestly-labeled estimate. This is best assembled fresh, since chaffles soften once filled. Individual chaffles can be made ahead and frozen, then assembled and broiled fresh when you are ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need even more keto and low carb recipes? Check out these meaty casseroles, and this family favorite sausage recipe. Breakfast is a cinch on a keto or low carb diet, and this gluten free corned beef hash is always a tasty dish.