Vegetarian Black Bean Burgers

Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers perfect for meal prep—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with spices and veggies.

This recipe has become a staple in my household, perfect for weekday meals and enjoyed by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Ingredients

• 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 (eg chipotle mayo, ketchup, mustard)

Instructions

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

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Step 1:

In a large bowl mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth leaving a few larger pieces for texture.

Step 2:

Add the oats breadcrumbs egg (or flaxseed egg) bell pepper onion garlic cumin smoked paprika chili powder salt and pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3:

Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the oats and breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.

Step 4:

Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties.

Step 5: 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.

Step 6:

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.

Step 7:

Toast burger buns if desired. Assemble burgers with lettuce tomato onion and your favorite sauces.

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe brings my family together every weekend for relaxed and delicious dinners.

Notes

Add a handful of chopped cilantro or jalapeño for extra flavor. 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 Wheat (if not using gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns) For gluten-free Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns. For vegan Use flaxseed egg. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.

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Make fresh ice for iced coffee, cocktails, chilling ingredients, and keeping drinks cold while cooking.

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These black bean burgers are simple to make and a wonderful addition to your meal prep rotation.

Cooking Questions & Answers

→ How do I make the patties hold together better?

Ensure the oat and breadcrumb mixture absorbs enough moisture by letting the mix rest 5–10 minutes before shaping. Using an egg or flaxseed egg helps bind ingredients firmly.

→ Can I bake the patties instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a hands-off, evenly cooked option with less oil.

→ What spices enhance the flavor of these patties?

Cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder add a warm, smoky, and mildly spicy profile that complements the beans and vegetables.

→ Are these patties suitable for vegan diets?

Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) to keep the patties plant-based and still hold their shape.

→ What sides pair well with these patties?

Consider serving with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or your favorite buns and toppings like lettuce, tomato, and sauces.