Croissant Smash Burgers (Print Version)

Buttery croissants meet juicy beef, cheese, and crisp toppings for a rich, satisfying sandwich.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Components

01 - 2 large croissants, sliced in half
02 - 1 pound ground beef
03 - 4 slices cheese, such as cheddar, American, or Swiss
04 - 4 leaves fresh lettuce
05 - 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
06 - 6 to 8 pickle slices

→ Seasoning

07 - Salt, to taste
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Steps:

01 - Preheat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot.
02 - Season ground beef evenly with salt and black pepper. Divide into 2 equal portions and gently roll each into a loose ball.
03 - Slice croissants in half and toast the cut sides in the hot skillet until golden and crisp. Remove and set aside.
04 - Place beef balls onto the hot skillet and use a burger press or sturdy spatula to flatten each into a thin patty. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes until a deep crust forms. Flip and cook for 1 to 2 minutes longer.
05 - In the final minute of cooking, top each patty with a cheese slice to melt.
06 - Arrange lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles on the bottom half of each toasted croissant. Top with a hot cheeseburger patty, then crown with the top croissant half.
07 - Serve immediately with preferred side dishes.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, use freshly ground beef with at least 20% fat content to maintain juiciness.