Save Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers perfect for meal prep—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with spices and veggies.
I enjoy making these burgers ahead of time to have a tasty vegetarian meal ready throughout the week.
Ingredients
- Black Beans & Base: 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed), 1 large egg (or flaxseed egg for vegan: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup finely diced red onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Spices & Flavorings: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- To Cook: 2 tbsp olive oil
- To Serve: 4 burger buns, Lettuce leaves, Tomato slices, Sliced red onion, Your favorite sauces (e.g., chipotle mayo, ketchup, mustard)
Instructions
- Mash Beans:
- In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving a few larger pieces for texture.
- Mix Ingredients:
- Add the oats, breadcrumbs, egg (or flaxseed egg), bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Rest Mixture:
- Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the oats and breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.
- Shape Patties:
- Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties.
- Freeze Patties (Optional):
- For make-ahead, place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes. Transfer to a freezer bag for storage up to 3 months; thaw before cooking.
- Cook Patties:
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
- Assemble Burgers:
- Toast burger buns if desired. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite sauces.
Save These burgers always bring smiles during family dinners, especially when assembled with everyone's favorite toppings.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a handful of chopped cilantro or jalapeño. Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. Pair with a light lager or a citrusy soda.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Potato masher or fork, Knife and cutting board, Non-stick skillet, Spatula
Allergen Information
Contains egg and wheat (if not using gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns). For gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save Enjoy these flavorful vegetarian black bean burgers as a satisfying and nutritious meal any day of the week.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How should the black beans be prepared for the patties?
Drain and rinse the canned black beans, then mash them until mostly smooth while leaving some texture for a hearty bite.
- → Can these patties be made vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg made from ground flaxseed and water to keep the binding properties vegan-friendly.
- → What cooking methods work best?
Pan-frying in olive oil over medium heat creates a crispy exterior, but baking at 400°F for 20 minutes is a great alternative.
- → Is it possible to prep these patties in advance?
Yes, shape the patties and freeze them on a lined baking sheet for 30 minutes before transferring to a freezer bag for storage up to 3 months.
- → What toppings pair well with these patties?
Fresh lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and sauces like chipotle mayo or mustard enhance the flavors and provide complementary textures.