Jump to Recipe Print RecipeYou won’t believe how effortlessly a bit of French flair can turn an American staple into a comforting masterpiece! Meet my Croissant Smash Burgers, where tender, buttery croissants replace traditional buns, cradling juicy smashed beef patties that are all about flavor. These customizable delights are not only quick and easy to whip up but also add a gourmet touch to your weeknight dinners. Whether you choose to pile on fresh toppings or opt for a simple cheese melt, these burgers embrace your taste in the most delicious way. Ready to uncover a new family favorite that will leave everyone craving more? Let’s dive into making this delicious fusion! Why Will You Love Croissant Smash Burgers? Satisfying Comfort: The buttery croissant buns elevate your typical burger experience, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. Versatile Toppings: Customize to your heart’s content! Whether you prefer classic lettuce and tomato or adventurous jalapeños and garlic aioli, this recipe caters to every taste. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, these burgers come together in just a few simple steps, making them an ideal choice for families craving a delicious home-cooked meal. Gourmet Appeal: Impress your friends and family with this unique twist on a classic dish; they’ll think you’ve been cooking like a pro! Pair them with Baked Smashed Potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to adults, everyone loves a good burger. These Croissant Smash Burgers will quickly become a hit at your next gathering! Croissant Smash Burgers Ingredients For the Burger • Croissants – The star of the show, these buttery, flaky buns add a gourmet touch to your classic burger experience. • Ground Beef – The main protein, delivering savory goodness; consider ground turkey or veggie patties for lighter options. • Cheese – Perfect for melting over the beef; cheddar is a classic, but Swiss or gouda are great alternatives. For the Toppings • Lettuce – Adds a refreshing crunch; can be swapped with spinach or arugula for a nutritious twist. • Tomato – Juicy and flavorful, it brightens up the burger; use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter bite. • Pickles – Provide a delightful tang; if you’re not a fan, try jalapeños for some heat instead. For Extra Flavor • Optional Sauces – Elevate your burger with garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, or any favorite sauces. Feel free to experiment with flavors! With these ingredients for your Croissant Smash Burgers, you’re on your way to crafting a meal that will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone craving more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Croissant Smash Burgers Step 1: Prepare the Patties Begin by shaping the ground beef into equal-sized patties, approximately 4 inches wide. Gently press a small indentation in the center of each patty to ensure even cooking and prevent shrinking. This initial preparation is essential for crafting delicious Croissant Smash Burgers, so keep your patties uniform in size. Step 2: Cook the Patties Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Place the beef patties in the skillet, and using a spatula, smash each one down firmly for maximum contact with the surface. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a rich, golden-brown crust, and the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring that they’re cooked through. Step 3: Add Cheese In the final minute of cooking, place your choice of cheese—like cheddar—on top of each patty. Cover the skillet briefly with a lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the meat. This step is crucial for creating the cheesy, blissful layer that truly elevates your Croissant Smash Burgers! Step 4: Toast Croissants While the patties are cooking, slice the croissants in half. Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and keep them warm. In the same skillet, place the croissant halves cut-side down to lightly toast until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy, taking about 1-2 minutes. This adds texture to your burger assembly. Step 5: Assemble the Burgers Now it’s time to put together your Croissant Smash Burgers! On the bottom half of each toasted croissant, layer fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles. Next, place the cheesy beef patty on top of those crisp veggies. If desired, drizzle your favorite sauces onto the patty before placing the top half of the croissant to finish off your burger masterpiece. Step 6: Serve Immediately These delectable Croissant Smash Burgers are best enjoyed fresh and hot! Plate them up alongside crispy fries or a vibrant salad for a complete meal experience. Invite your loved ones to dig in, ensuring they savor every bite of this delicious and indulgent twist on a classic favorite! Make Ahead Options These Croissant Smash Burgers are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy deliciousness even on the busiest days! You can prepare the beef patties up to 3 days in advance—just form them and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. For even longer storage, freeze the formed patties for up to 3 months. To maintain their juicy texture, wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating or freezing. When it’s time to serve, simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, and finish with cheese as they cook. Toast the croissants right before assembly to keep them crispy, and you’ll have flavorful Croissant Smash Burgers ready in no time! What to Serve with Croissant Smash Burgers Elevate your meal with these delicious sides and beverages that perfectly accompany your fantastic creation. Crispy French Fries: The classic side adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft croissant bun and juicy patty. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing balance to the richness of the burger, a salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brightens the plate. Coleslaw: Creamy, tangy slaw brings a crunchy texture and an additional layer of flavor that beautifully complements the savory profile of the smash burgers. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: These hearty potatoes provide a flavorful bite. Their crispy exterior and soft interior harmonize well with the burger’s flavors. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the burger, creating delightful contrasts that everyone will love. Cold Beverages: Serve with a chilled glass of iced tea or a craft beer; they refresh and cleanse the palate after each delicious bite. Chocolate Milkshake: For dessert, indulge in a thick and creamy milkshake, making for a dreamy, nostalgic pairing with your Croissant Smash Burgers. Expert Tips for Croissant Smash Burgers Perfect Patty Size: Ensure your patties are about 4 inches wide for even cooking and to fit the croissant well. This helps avoid inconsistencies in size. Avoid Sogginess: Lightly toast the croissant halves in the skillet, as this creates a barrier to keep them from getting soggy, ensuring a delightful crunch. Cheese Melting Trick: To achieve a perfectly melted layer of cheese, cover the skillet briefly in the last minute of cooking. This locks in heat and moisture. Meal Prep Ease: Consider preparing extra patties and freezing them. These Croissant Smash Burgers can be a quick meal solution for busy nights. Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix and match toppings or sauces to suit your taste. Experimenting can lead to a personalized burger experience that will keep everyone guessing! How to Store and Freeze Croissant Smash Burgers Fridge: Store leftover patties separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cooked patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This allows for easy reheating later. Reheating: To reheat, thaw the patties in the fridge overnight, then warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Croissants: If you have leftover croissants, store them at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 2 days. Lightly toast them before using to retain their delightful texture. Croissant Smash Burgers Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Croissant Smash Burgers—there’s a world of flavors to explore! Bun Swaps: Swap croissants for brioche buns for a sweeter, softer twist—it’s a dreamy alternative that elevates the burger experience. Lean Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. These alternatives still provide mouthwatering juiciness while reducing calories. Veggie Delight: Go meatless with a plant-based patty for a delicious vegetarian option. It’s just as satisfying, especially when topped with your favorite fixings. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses—try pepper jack for some heat, or creamy gouda for an indulgent touch. Add your own flair with these delightful cheeses! Fresh Greens: Substitute lettuce for arugula or spinach to enhance flavor and pack in more nutrients. This simple swap can make your burger even more refreshing. Tomato Options: Use heirloom tomatoes for a burst of color and a richer taste, or skip them altogether for a simplified version if you’re craving something less tangy. Tangy Alternatives: Instead of pickles, add jalapeños for a spicy kick or onion relish for a touch of sweetness—both bring unique flavors that complement the burgers beautifully. Sauce Your Way: The right sauce can take your burger to the next level! Try tangy barbecue sauce or zesty mustard for a flavor boost. For an added touch of umami, mix in some Worcestershire sauce into the ground beef. These variations not only cater to different dietary needs but also make your Croissant Smash Burgers a unique experience every time you cook them. Don’t forget to check out these enticing pairings with your burgers, like delicious Greek Chicken Burgers or crispy Baked Smashed Potatoes to truly elevate your meal! Croissant Smash Burgers Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right croissants for my burgers? Absolutely! Look for croissants that are golden brown and flaky. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or seem overly dry, as you want that buttery and fresh taste. If you can, opt for freshly baked croissants to enhance the flavor profile of your Croissant Smash Burgers. How long can I store leftover Croissant Smash Burgers in the fridge? You can store leftover patties separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain their delicious flavor. Croissants, if leftover, should be kept in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, lightly toasting them before using to retain that delightful texture. Can I freeze Croissant Smash Burgers? Very! To freeze, wrap each cooked patty in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the patties in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and ready to serve. What should I do if my patties are not cooking evenly? In the event that your patties aren’t cooking evenly, make sure to flatten them sufficiently during the cooking process. Use a sturdy spatula to press down firmly on each patty when you place them in the skillet. This increases contact with the heat, allowing for a beautifully seared crust. If they are still not browning, check the heat level of your skillet—ensure it’s medium-high and adjust as necessary. Are there any dietary considerations for Croissant Smash Burgers? For sure! Since this recipe contains ground beef and croissants, those with gluten or beef allergies should opt for gluten-free patties and buns, like lettuce wraps or gluten-free bread. Additionally, consider vegetarian options like black bean or veggie patties instead of beef. Watch out for any cheeses used, as some may contain lactose; vegan cheese can be a fantastic substitute for a dairy-free version. Croissant Smash Burgers: A Comfort Food Twist You'll Love Discover the delightful fusion of Croissant Smash Burgers, an effortless twist on a classic American staple that combines buttery croissants with juicy beef patties. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 burgersCourse: DinnerCuisine: French-AmericanCalories: 620 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Burger4 pieces Croissants buttery, flaky buns1 pound Ground Beef or ground turkey/veggie for lighter options4 slices Cheese cheddar, Swiss, or goudaFor the Toppings1 cup Lettuce or spinach/arugula1 medium Tomato or cherry tomatoes1 cup Pickles or jalapeñosFor Extra FlavorOptional Sauces garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, or any favorite sauces Equipment Cast Iron Skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPrepare the patties by shaping the ground beef into equal-sized patties, making them approximately 4 inches wide.Cook the patties in a hot cast-iron skillet, smashing each one down for maximum contact. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.In the last minute of cooking, add cheese on top of each patty and cover briefly to allow it to melt.Toast the croissant halves cut-side down in the same skillet until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.Assemble the burgers by layering lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles on the bottom half of each toasted croissant, then add the cheesy patty on top.Serve immediately with crispy fries or a salad for a complete meal. Nutrition Serving: 1burgerCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure patties are about 4 inches wide for even cooking, and lightly toast croissants to avoid sogginess. Experiment with toppings for a personalized touch. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!