Crispy Croissant Smash Burgers (Printable Version)

Flaky croissant buns paired with crispy-edged smashed beef and melted cheese for a rich, satisfying bite.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Beef Patties

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - Kosher salt, to season
03 - Freshly cracked black pepper, to season

→ Buns and Cheese

04 - 4 large croissants
05 - 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter

→ Optional Toppings

07 - Lettuce leaves
08 - Tomato slices
09 - Pickles
10 - Red onion rings
11 - Crispy bacon
12 - Mayonnaise
13 - Ketchup
14 - Spicy aioli

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until it begins to smoke lightly.
02 - Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (approximately 4 ounces each). Place one portion in the skillet and press down with a spatula to form a 1/4-inch thick patty. Repeat with remaining portions, cooking in batches if necessary.
03 - Season the smashed side with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Cook without disturbance for 3 minutes until edges are browned and crispy. Flip patties, add cheese slices on top, then cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes until cheese melts.
04 - Slice croissants horizontally and evenly spread butter on cut sides. Toast butter-side down in a separate pan or the same skillet for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and flaky.
05 - Place each cooked patty on the bottom half of a toasted croissant. Add optional toppings and sauces as desired, then cover with the top croissant half. Serve immediately.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure patties brown rather than steam. Smash patties thinly for optimal crispiness. Allow patties to rest briefly before assembly to redistribute juices.