Save Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers perfect for meal prep — crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with spices and veggies.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite with its perfect balance of texture and flavor that keeps us coming back for more.
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 (e.g. chipotle mayo, ketchup, mustard)
Instructions
- Mash the 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 to 10 minutes to allow the oats and breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.
- Form 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 to 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.
Pin it Making these burgers together has become a fun weekend tradition that brings the family closer while enjoying delicious food.
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 vegan use flaxseed egg. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving without toppings or bun: Calories 220, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 10 g
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These black bean burgers are a simple yet flavorful meal you can enjoy anytime and easily customize to your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make these patties vegan?
Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg made by mixing 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 2.5 tbsp water. Let it sit until gel-like before adding.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy exterior?
Cook the patties in heated olive oil over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- → Can these patties be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, shape the patties and freeze them on a lined sheet for 30 minutes before transferring to storage bags. Thaw before cooking.
- → Are there gluten-free options for this dish?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to keep the patties gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
- → What flavor additions complement these patties well?
Adding chopped cilantro or jalapeño provides extra freshness and a hint of heat to enhance the savory spices.