Introduction
Croissant Smash Burgers are what happen when comfort food meets indulgence. I decided to try this recipe when I wanted something familiar yet elevated, and replacing traditional burger buns with flaky croissants completely transformed the experience. The crisp, caramelized edges of a smash burger paired with the soft, buttery layers of a croissant create a contrast that feels both satisfying and luxurious. This is the kind of recipe that works just as well for a casual weekend meal as it does for impressing guests without much extra effort. I have made these burgers for family dinners and informal gatherings, and they never fail to stand out. Despite their gourmet feel, Croissant Smash Burgers are straightforward to prepare and rely on simple techniques rather than complicated steps. If you enjoy bold flavors, rich textures, and classic burgers with a creative twist, this recipe is one you will want to make again.
Print
Croissant Smash Burgers: A Buttery, Juicy Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Diet: Halal
Description
Croissant Smash Burgers are buttery, flaky croissant buns filled with crispy smashed beef patties, melted cheese, and classic burger toppings—an indulgent twist on a traditional smash burger.
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants, sliced in half
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting croissants)
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced pickles
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to create a simple burger sauce; set aside.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Divide beef into 4 loose balls and season with salt and pepper.
- Place each beef ball on the hot skillet and smash firmly with a spatula until thin.
- Cook until edges are crispy, then flip and top each patty with cheese. Cook until melted.
- In a separate pan, melt butter and toast the cut sides of croissants until golden.
- Assemble burgers: spread sauce on croissant bases, add lettuce, tomato, pickles, then the cheesy smash patty.
- Top with the croissant lid and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, lightly toast croissants in the oven before assembling.
- Double the patties for a stacked burger.
- Add caramelized onions for added sweetness and depth.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers juicy burgers with crisp edges, rich buttery flavor from croissants, and quick cooking time. It feels indulgent yet approachable and can be customized easily with different cheeses and toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef is the foundation of the smash burger. A higher fat content works best, as it creates juicy patties with crisp edges when smashed onto a hot surface.
Croissants replace traditional burger buns. Their flaky layers and buttery taste add richness and a soft texture that contrasts beautifully with the beef.
Cheese slices melt directly onto the hot patties. Classic options like American or cheddar work well, but other melt-friendly cheeses can be used.
Salt and black pepper season the beef simply and effectively. Minimal seasoning allows the natural flavor of the meat to shine.
Butter is used lightly for toasting the croissants. It enhances their golden color and deepens the overall flavor.
Onion slices add sweetness and depth. When cooked briefly, they soften and caramelize slightly on the hot surface.
Burger sauce or condiments such as mayonnaise, mustard, or ketchup add moisture and balance to the richness of the beef and croissant.
Optional toppings like lettuce, pickles, or tomato provide freshness and texture contrast. I often add pickles for acidity to cut through the butteriness.
Directions
Start by slicing the croissants in half horizontally. Lightly butter the cut sides and toast them on a skillet until golden and warm. Set aside.
Divide the ground beef into small balls without compacting them too tightly. Heat a heavy skillet or griddle over high heat until very hot.
Place the beef balls onto the hot surface and immediately smash them flat using a spatula or burger press. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about two minutes until crisp edges form, then flip.
Add onion slices on top of the patties if using, followed by cheese. Cook for another minute until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked through.
Assemble the burgers by spreading sauce on the toasted croissant halves, adding the smashed patties, and finishing with any additional toppings. Serve immediately while hot.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes.
Cooking time is about 10 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Smash burgers are best enjoyed fresh. If needed, cooked patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet. Croissants should be toasted fresh for best texture.
Variations and Customizations
Croissant Smash Burgers are easy to adapt depending on your preferences. For a richer flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. I have tried this variation for dinner, and it adds depth without overpowering the burger.
You can experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack for a slightly different profile. For a lighter option, use mini croissants and smaller patties to create sliders.
Sauces also make a big difference. A simple garlic mayonnaise, spicy mustard, or even a light barbecue sauce can completely change the character of the burger. Each customization allows you to tailor the burger while keeping the core technique the same.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This recipe is high in protein and calories due to the beef and croissants. It is suitable for occasional indulgence and can be adjusted by using leaner beef or smaller portions.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Hot surface
Ensure the skillet is very hot to achieve crisp smash burger edges.
Minimal handling
Do not overwork the beef to keep the patties juicy.
Croissant care
Toast lightly to avoid overpowering the burger with dryness.
Balance flavors
Add acidic toppings like pickles to balance richness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen croissants?
Fresh croissants work best, but thawed frozen ones can be used if toasted well.
What beef fat ratio is ideal?
An 80/20 ratio produces the juiciest smash burgers.
Can I cook these on a grill?
Yes, a flat griddle surface on a grill works well.
Are croissants too soft for burgers?
Toasting them lightly helps them hold the fillings.
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
They are best made fresh, but patties can be pre-shaped.
What cheese melts best?
American cheese melts most evenly, but cheddar also works.
Are these suitable for children?
Yes, the flavors are familiar and mild.
Can I make a chicken version?
Yes, ground chicken can be used, but cook thoroughly.
How do I prevent sticking?
Use a well-heated, lightly oiled surface.
What sides pair well with this?
Simple fries or a fresh salad balance the richness.
Conclusion
Croissant Smash Burgers are a bold yet simple way to elevate a classic burger. With crisp beef, melted cheese, and buttery croissants, they deliver rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. This recipe is perfect when you want comfort food with a creative edge.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!