If you have been on the lookout for a delicious, hearty, and wholesome way to enjoy burgers without the meat, this Black Bean Burger Recipe is going to become your new favourite. It’s packed with flavor from smoky spices and fresh cilantro, wonderfully moist yet holding together with just the right texture thanks to the breadcrumbs and egg. There’s something truly satisfying about biting into a homemade black bean patty that’s tender on the inside, slightly crisp on the edges, and bursting with layers of savory goodness. This recipe bridges comfort food with nutrition in a way that feels thoughtful yet effortless — perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual weekend cookout.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Black Bean Burger Recipe is in its simple, familiar ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and color. Every component is easy to find and combines to create a patty that’s just as tasty as it is nutritious.
- Black beans (1 15 oz can, drained and rinsed): The star of the show, lending creaminess and protein-packed goodness.
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Essential for binding the mixture together while adding lightness and structure.
- Red onion (¼ cup, finely diced): Offers a touch of sweetness and a bit of crunch.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant depth that perks up every bite.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as a natural binder to hold the patties together; can be swapped for flax egg for vegan option.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds moisture and helps keep the patties tender.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Brings gentle heat and complexity.
- Cumin (½ teaspoon): Imparts a warm, earthy aroma that complements the black beans beautifully.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a lovely smoky note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon) and black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Basic seasonings to balance and bring out all the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): For a fresh, herbaceous contrast that brightens the burger.
- Ketchup or barbecue sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a little sweet tang and moisture to enrich the texture.
How to Make Black Bean Burger Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Beans
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Mash your drained and rinsed black beans using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky. You want a good balance between creamy and textured, so don’t overdo it! This texture helps your burger hold together and gives those lovely little pockets of bean in every bite.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
Next, add your breadcrumbs, diced red onion, minced garlic, egg, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, chopped cilantro (if using), and ketchup or barbecue sauce to the mashed beans. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix everything until thoroughly combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to form into patties without falling apart. The spices bring a warm complexity while the ketchup or BBQ sauce adds a subtle tang that ties all the flavors together.
Step 3: Shape and Bake Your Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently shape them into burger patties about the size of your palm. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s a little space between each one to allow even cooking. Bake for 10–12 minutes on one side until they begin to firm up and brown lightly, then carefully flip and bake another 10–12 minutes. The heat will set the patties while giving that nice outer texture.
Step 4: Optional Pan-Fry for Extra Crisp
If you prefer a crispier crust on your black bean burger, feel free to finish them off in a skillet with a light drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Pan-frying each side for a few minutes creates a delightful golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.
How to Serve Black Bean Burger Recipe
Garnishes
What truly makes a burger memorable are the toppings. For this Black Bean Burger Recipe, creamy avocado slices, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and thinly sliced red onion are classic choices that add freshness and crunch. A dollop of spicy mayo or chipotle aioli can elevate the flavor dimension even further, adding a creamy and zesty finish.
Side Dishes
Serve these burgers alongside sweet potato fries, a tangy coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Grilled corn on the cob or roasted vegetables also pair beautifully, bringing subtle smoky or sweet notes that complement the savory patties perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
You can toss these burger patties onto a bed of mixed greens for a bun-less option or serve them as sliders on mini buns for a party platter. For a low-carb take, wrap them in large lettuce leaves loaded with your favorite toppings. The versatility of this Black Bean Burger Recipe means you can customize it to fit any occasion or craving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover black bean burgers keep very well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Having these ready to go makes for a quick lunch or dinner option during busy days, and their flavor even deepens after resting.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in bulk, these patties freeze wonderfully. Place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready for a meal, bake or pan-fry them straight from frozen while adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Reheating
To reheat, the oven or skillet both work great to maintain texture and avoid sogginess. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or warm in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat until heated through and crisp on the outside.
FAQs
Can I make this Black Bean Burger Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to sit for 5 minutes). This will help bind the patties without changing the taste.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
No problem! You can substitute with regular paprika or add a tiny pinch of liquid smoke if you have it. This keeps the smoky flavor profile that makes the Black Bean Burger Recipe stand out.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Make sure you mash the beans well but leave some texture, and don’t skip the breadcrumbs and egg (or flax egg). These ingredients absorb moisture and provide structure to keep the patties intact during cooking.
Can I grill these burgers?
Yes, grilling works if your patties are firm enough. For best results, chill them in the fridge for an hour before placing them on the grill to help them hold their shape.
What toppings work best with black bean burgers?
Fresh toppings like avocado, tomato, lettuce, pickles, and spicy sauces really complement the earthiness of the black bean burger. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to find your perfect combination.
Final Thoughts
This Black Bean Burger Recipe strikes the perfect balance of deliciousness, nutrition, and simplicity. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or just curious to try something new, I promise these burgers will become a staple in your kitchen and heart. Give them a try—you might just find your next comfort food obsession.
Print
Black Bean Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Black Bean Burger recipe offers a delicious and healthy plant-based alternative to traditional beef burgers. Made with mashed black beans, breadcrumbs, and a blend of spices, these patties are baked to a perfect texture and full of flavor. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings for a satisfying vegetarian main course that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Black Bean Burger Patties
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup or barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mash the black beans: In a medium bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture. This creates the base of your burger patties.
- Combine ingredients: Add the breadcrumbs, finely diced red onion, minced garlic, egg, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, chopped cilantro (if using), and ketchup or barbecue sauce to the mashed beans. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Form patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty. Make sure the patties are compact so they hold together during baking.
- Bake the patties: Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10–12 minutes on each side, or until the patties are firm and lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the patties on buns with your favorite toppings such as avocado, lettuce, tomato, onion, or a spicy mayo dressing for added flavor.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, you can pan-fry the patties in a skillet with a bit of oil instead of baking.
- To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg made from 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for a few minutes before using.
