Black Bean Burger Recipe
Imagine sinking your teeth into a hearty, flavor-packed Black Bean Burger that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with savory spices! This tribute to plant-based goodness proves that a meatless burger can be every bit as satisfying (if not more) than its classic counterpart. With a smattering of colorful veggies, a punch of garlic and smoked paprika, and a clever pantry trick or two, this easy recipe has become my go-to for effortless weeknights, laid-back gatherings, and everything in between.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a Black Bean Burger that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture. Each component offers something special—from earthy beans to aromatic spices—so don’t skip the details!
- Black beans: The star of the show, these create the burger’s hearty texture and provide tons of plant protein.
- Bread crumbs: Hold everything together and add a subtle crispiness to each bite—use whole wheat for extra fiber.
- Onion (finely chopped): Adds savory depth and a pleasant bite without overwhelming the burger.
- Bell pepper (finely chopped): Brings sweetness, color, and a little crunch with every mouthful.
- Garlic (minced): No burger is complete without that garlicky aroma and subtle heat!
- Eggs: Bind the mixture together; swap for flax eggs for a vegan-friendly version.
- Soy sauce or tamari: Boosts umami and saltiness—tamari if you want gluten-free.
- Chili powder: Adds warmth and gentle spice without stealing the spotlight.
- Cumin: Earthy and slightly smoky, it rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky note that makes these burgers irresistible.
- Salt and pepper: Simple but essential—season to taste and taste often.
- Olive oil (for cooking): Helps you achieve that tempting golden-brown crust in the skillet.
- Burger buns & toppings: Pile it high with lettuce, tomato, cheese, avocado, or whatever your heart desires!
How to Make Black Bean Burger
Step 1: Mash the Black Beans
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and toss in your well-drained and rinsed black beans. Using a fork or potato masher, give them a good mash until the mixture is mostly smooth but still a little chunky. You want some texture to shine through, so don’t go for a pure purée—leave a few beans partially whole for bites with extra bite!
Step 2: Add seasonings and veggies
Now, sprinkle in the breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and that fragrant minced garlic. Crack in the eggs and splash in the soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free twist). Follow with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Each ingredient gets its moment to shine, working together to create the bold, balanced flavor you crave in a Black Bean Burger.
Step 3: Mix and shape the patties
With clean hands or a sturdy spoon, gently fold and combine everything until you have a uniform, slightly sticky mixture. If it’s looking a bit too wet, sprinkle in another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into thick patties—aim for about the size of your burger buns.
Step 4: Cook the Black Bean Burgers
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (cast iron works beautifully for extra crust). Carefully lay the patties into the pan and let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side. They’re ready to flip when the underside is deeply golden and crusty. Your kitchen will smell amazing as the spices bloom and the burgers crisp up!
Step 5: Assemble and serve
Transfer each Black Bean Burger to a toasted bun, then layer on your favorite toppings—think creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, or even a melt of cheese if you like. Add your favorite condiments, take a moment to admire your handiwork, and dig in!
How to Serve Black Bean Burger
Garnishes
The right garnish can transform your Black Bean Burger from deliciously simple to downright dazzling. A handful of fresh arugula, a dollop of chipotle mayo, a slice of gooey cheese, or creamy guacamole add not just flavor, but color and crunch. Don’t be afraid to pile it high with pickled onions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs—this burger was made for personal flair!
Side Dishes
Looking for the perfect companion? Serve your burgers alongside crispy sweet potato fries, a vibrant slaw, or a cool cucumber salad. For comfort food vibes, classic oven fries or kettle-cooked chips always do the trick. You could even go a little lighter with a leafy green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil.
Creative Ways to Present
Show off your Black Bean Burger chops by getting playful with presentation. Try slider-sized mini burgers for parties, serve them open-faced with a creamy tahini drizzle, or layer them into a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies. You can even crumble leftover patties into tacos or wraps for a meal refresh!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Black Bean Burger patties, let them cool completely and then wrap individually with parchment or foil. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. This makes weekday lunches and quick dinners a total breeze!
Freezing
These burgers are freezer-friendly! Lay the formed (uncooked) patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer container. When you’re in the mood, cook straight from frozen—just add a couple of minutes to the cooking time. It’s like having homemade fast food on hand whenever you need it.
Reheating
Warm leftover burgers in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side until warmed through and crisp on the outside. They also reheat well in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. If you’re in a rush, a quick microwave blast works (though the crust won’t be as crisp).
FAQs
Can I make Black Bean Burgers vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap out the eggs for flax eggs by mixing 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken—this plant-based binder works like a charm.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can substitute with regular paprika for a little color, or try a pinch of chipotle powder for extra smoky heat. The burger will still be delicious, just a bit less smoky.
Can I grill these Black Bean Burgers?
Yes, these hold up surprisingly well on a grill pan or well-oiled outdoor grill. Just preheat and cook carefully, as homemade veggie burgers are a bit more delicate than meat ones—use gentle flips!
How can I make the patties firmer?
If your mixture is too wet or falling apart, add extra breadcrumbs little by little until it holds its shape easily. Chilling the formed patties in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking can also help them firm up beautifully.
What toppings go best with Black Bean Burgers?
Anything goes! Sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, sliced avocado, lettuce, juicy tomato, pickles, and your favorite sauces or spreads are all delicious. Get creative and let everyone build their own masterpiece.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s bold, wholesome, and endlessly customizable, give this Black Bean Burger a try! Whether you load it up with toppings or enjoy it as-is, it promises big flavor with every bite. I hope this recipe brings as much joy (and applause) to your table as it does to mine.
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Black Bean Burger Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This flavorful black bean burger recipe is a delicious meatless option for your next meal. Packed with protein and spices, these patties are easy to make and perfect for grilling or cooking on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Black Bean Burger:
- 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
- Burger buns and desired toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, avocado, condiments)
Instructions
- Mash the Beans: In a large bowl, mash black beans until mostly smooth with some chunks.
- Add Ingredients: Mix in breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, eggs, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Form Patties: Divide mixture into 4 portions and shape into patties.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Serve on buns with desired toppings.
Notes
- For a vegan version, replace eggs with 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water).
- These patties can be made ahead and chilled or frozen for later use.
- They also cook well on a grill pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger patty (without bun)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
