I’ve always loved finding new ways to enjoy classic flavors, and this Korean BBQ Beef Croissant is a perfect example. It combines the rich, savory taste of Korean BBQ with the buttery flakiness of a croissant.
It’s great for a weekend brunch, a fun appetizer for a get-together, or even a satisfying weeknight dinner when you’re craving something different.
What I love about this recipe is how it takes something familiar (a croissant) and gives it an exciting twist.
Recipe Overview: Korean BBQ Beef Croissant
This dish features tender, marinated beef, infused with all those delicious Korean BBQ flavors – soy sauce, sesame, garlic, and a hint of sweetness.
Then, it’s all tucked inside a warm, flaky croissant.
It’s that amazing mix of textures and flavors that get me. The crispy croissant and the juicy beef are truly an amazing match.
You can serve these as a main course with a side salad or some quick pickled vegetables. They’re also fantastic as part of a brunch spread, or even cut into smaller pieces for a party appetizer.
Korean BBQ Beef Croissant Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather.
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large croissants
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, kimchi (for a spicy kick!)
For the beef, I like using sirloin because it’s flavorful and cooks quickly. Make sure to cut across the grain. You can get your butcher to do that.
If you can’t find rice vinegar, you could use apple cider vinegar as a substitute, but the flavor will be a little different.
As for the croissants, you can use store-bought or, if you’re feeling ambitious, make your own.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Korean BBQ Beef Croissant
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
- Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, making sure all the pieces are well coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer (you might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan).
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the beef is cooked through and slightly caramelized. The beef cooks quickly, so keep an eye on that.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Assemble the Croissants: Slice the croissants horizontally.
- Fill each croissant with a generous portion of the cooked Korean BBQ beef.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or a bit of kimchi for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the croissants are warm and the beef is juicy.
Variations & Tips for Korean BBQ Beef Croissant
- Spice Level: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Vegetarian Option: You can substitute the beef with thinly sliced portobello mushrooms or firm tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Make-Ahead: You can marinate the beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The croissants are best assembled right before serving.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the beef in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can warm the croissants in a toaster oven or a low oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
- Serving suggestions: Serve the croissants with a side of Asian-inspired slaw or a simple cucumber salad.
Key Details
- Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Servings: 4
- Equipment you’ll need: Medium bowl, large skillet or wok, knife, cutting board.
Korean BBQ Beef Croissant
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sirloin thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large croissants
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions sesame seeds, shredded carrots, kimchi
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
- Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, making sure all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through and slightly caramelized. Remove and set aside.
- Slice croissants horizontally.
- Fill each croissant with a generous portion of cooked Korean BBQ beef.
- Optionally, sprinkle with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, shredded carrots, or kimchi.
- Serve immediately while croissants are warm and beef is juicy.