The Best Easy Black Bean Burger Recipe: Flavorful & Wholesome Plant-Based Perfection
Discover how to create truly delicious and satisfying black bean burgers that will transform your plant-based meal game! This easy-to-follow black bean burger recipe ensures wholesome patties bursting with flavor, ready to enjoy in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, BBQ gatherings, or a healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers, these homemade delights are a must-try for everyone, from seasoned vegetarians to those just exploring plant-forward options.
Why This Easy Black Bean Burger Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
Black beans are a powerhouse ingredient in the kitchen, offering incredible versatility and nutritional benefits. They are the star of many delicious dishes, from comforting black bean soup to zesty black bean tacos. In this black bean burger recipe, they truly shine, providing an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein. Whether you’re committed to a plant-based diet or simply seeking a delicious and healthier alternative to beef, these burgers offer a fantastic solution.
Forget everything you thought you knew about vegetarian burgers being bland or crumbly. Our recipe is crafted to deliver anything but! We pack these patties with an abundance of aromatic spices and seasonings, ensuring every bite is bursting with life. Diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce introduce a smoky heat, while soy sauce adds a savory umami depth. Fresh red onion and bell peppers contribute not only to the vibrant flavor profile but also provide a delightful texture that makes these burgers incredibly satisfying. We can confidently say this is the best black bean burger you’ll ever sink your teeth into – firm, flavorful, and incredibly fulfilling!
Beyond taste, this recipe works because of its simplicity and speed. You don’t need to be an experienced chef to whip up these gourmet-quality burgers. The minimal prep time and quick cooking process make it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade, healthy, and utterly delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more legumes and vegetables into your diet, supporting overall wellness without sacrificing flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Your Black Bean Burgers
To whip up these amazing black bean burgers, you’ll need a selection of simple yet powerful ingredients. You can find all specific measurements, quantities, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the very end of this blog post. Make sure to have these items on hand before you begin your culinary adventure!
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Let’s dive deeper into the key components of these mouthwatering black bean burgers and explore some clever substitution options to fit various dietary needs or preferences:
- BLACK BEANS – You’ll need two 14-ounce cans of black beans. It’s crucial to drain and rinse them thoroughly. This step significantly reduces their sodium content and helps achieve the ideal patty consistency. For a bolder flavor, consider using some of the reserved liquid from the chipotle peppers, but remember to adjust the soy sauce accordingly to prevent over-salting.
- AROMATIC VEGETABLES & SPICES – The magic in these burgers comes from the blend of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Minced garlic, diced red onion, and bell peppers (we use green, but red or yellow work wonderfully for a sweeter note) lay the foundation. These are sautéed in butter (or vegan butter) to soften them and deepen their flavor before being incorporated into the patties. The star spice is a can of diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, which provides that signature smoky, spicy kick that elevates these burgers far beyond ordinary. Don’t be shy with the spices! Chili powder, garlic salt, and ground cumin contribute to a rich, Tex-Mex inspired flavor profile that complements the earthy black beans perfectly.
- BINDER FOR PERFECT PATTIES – A robust binder is key to ensuring your black bean burgers hold their shape without crumbling. Here, a large egg and panko breadcrumbs work synergistically with the black beans to create a firm, yet tender, patty. The panko breadcrumbs absorb moisture and add a lightness that prevents the burgers from becoming too dense.
- Vegan Alternative for Eggs: For a completely vegan black bean burger, easily substitute the egg with a “flax egg.” To make one flax egg, simply combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency. This acts as an excellent plant-based binder.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: If you need a gluten-free option, ensure your panko breadcrumbs are certified gluten-free. Alternatively, you can use gluten-free rolled oats processed slightly in a food processor, or even gluten-free flour, adjusting the quantity as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- UMAMI BOOST – Low sodium soy sauce is used to add a fantastic depth of umami and savory richness. If you’re gluten-intolerant, tamari is an excellent gluten-free alternative that offers the same great flavor.
- COOKING FAT – A tablespoon of olive oil is used for pan-frying the patties, giving them a beautiful golden-brown crust. Any neutral high-heat oil like avocado oil or canola oil can also be used.
How to Make the Best Black Bean Burgers: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a complete, printable version of this recipe, including all measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- **Sauté the Aromatics:** Begin by melting butter (or vegan butter) in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced red onion, and green bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they are tender and fragrant, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a deep flavor base. Once tender, remove the sautéed vegetables from the skillet and set them aside to cool slightly.
- **Process Half the Beans:** In a mini food chopper or food processor, add about half of the drained and rinsed black beans. Alongside them, add the chili powder, garlic salt, ground cumin, diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and low sodium soy sauce. Process this mixture until it becomes completely homogenous and relatively smooth. This creates a creamy base that helps bind the burgers and distribute flavor evenly, while leaving the other half of the beans whole provides wonderful texture.
- **Combine All Ingredients:** Transfer the blended black bean mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining whole black beans, the cooled sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture, the egg (or flax egg for vegan), and the panko breadcrumbs. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are completely combined and form a uniform, pliable mixture. This stage is crucial for ensuring all flavors are well distributed and the binder is fully incorporated for stable patties.
- **Form the Patties:** Using gloved hands (this helps prevent sticking and keeps things clean), gently form the mixture into four equally sized patties. Ensure they are compact and hold their shape well. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a touch more panko breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, a tiny bit of water or more adobo sauce liquid can help.
- **Heat the Skillet:** Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This indicates the oil is hot enough for proper searing, which will create a delicious crust on your burgers.
- **Cook the Patties:** Carefully place the formed black bean patties into the hot oil. Cook them until they are beautifully browned and crisp on each side, which typically takes about 4 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- **Serve and Enjoy:** Once cooked, serve your flavorful black bean burgers immediately on hamburger buns, piled high with your favorite toppings. Get creative and customize each burger to your liking!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Black Bean Burgers
Absolutely! This black bean burger recipe is incredibly convenient for meal prepping. You can prepare the mixture and shape the patties up to a day in advance. Simply place the formed patties on a plate or baking sheet, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then cover tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook them. This makes weeknight meals a breeze!
Leftover black bean burgers are a treat! Store any cooked and cooled patties in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until they are warmed through. You can also warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Yes, freezing these black bean burgers is a fantastic way to extend their shelf life and have quick meals on hand. To freeze them, first form the mixture into patties. Then, place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch. Flash freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the patties to an air-tight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty ziptop bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, you can often cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
The consistency of black bean burgers can vary based on bean moisture and vegetable water content. If your mixture feels too soft, try adding an extra tablespoon or two of panko breadcrumbs until it’s firm enough to hold its shape. If it’s too crumbly, a little more soy sauce or even a dash of water can help it come together. Chilling the formed patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking can also help them firm up and hold their shape better.
Absolutely! While pan-frying gives a great crust, these black bean burgers can also be grilled. For best results, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until heated through and nicely charred. Using a grill basket can also help prevent them from falling apart.
Black beans are incredibly nutritious! They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels. They’re also rich in plant-based protein, making them a great meat substitute, and contain essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, potassium, and folate. Their antioxidants also contribute to overall health.
Creative Serving Suggestions for Your Black Bean Burgers
The beauty of these black bean burgers lies not only in their incredible flavor but also in their versatility. They serve as a perfect canvas for a wide array of toppings and side dishes, allowing you to customize your meal to your heart’s content. Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your black bean burger experience:
- **Classic Toppings:** Keep it simple and classic with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and rings of raw or pickled onions. Dill pickles add a wonderful tang and crunch.
- **Creamy & Cool:** A generous slice of avocado or a dollop of fresh guacamole adds a creamy, refreshing contrast to the smoky spice of the patty.
- **Spicy Kick:** For those who love a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled), a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, or a homemade creamy chipotle mayo will take these burgers to the next level.
- **Cheesy Goodness:** Don’t forget the cheese! A slice of your preferred cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or a vegan alternative) melted over the warm patty is always a welcome addition.
- **Gourmet Touches:** Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a fried egg for an extra decadent touch. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors beautifully.
- **Sauce It Up:** Beyond the typical ketchup and mustard, experiment with a homemade aioli, a zesty cilantro-lime crema, a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, or our recommended Thousand Island dressing for a unique flavor profile.
- **Perfect Pairings (Side Dishes):** Complete your meal with classic burger sides. Think crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, a vibrant coleslaw, or a comforting bowl of chili. For a lighter option, serve them alongside a quinoa salad or grilled corn on the cob.
Ultimately, treat these black bean burgers as you would any other gourmet burger – the possibilities for customization are endless!
More Delicious Plant-Based Recipes to Try
If you loved this black bean burger recipe, you’ll be thrilled to explore more of our wholesome and flavorful plant-based dishes. Here are a few recommendations from our kitchen that we think you’ll enjoy:
- Lentil Meatballs
- Mushroom Burger
- Black Bean Tacos
- Stuffed Baked Eggplant Parmesan
- Veggie Burgers
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes, and sharing my culinary experiences with all of you! Remembering to come back each day for new ideas can be tough, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter delivered right to your inbox every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes – never miss a delicious dish again!
Flavorful Black Bean Burger
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ cup diced red onion (about 1 medium red onion)
- ½ cup diced green bell peppers (about 1 medium bell pepper)
- 28 ounces canned black beans (two 14 ounce cans, drained and rinsed. Divided)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 ½ Tablespoons diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 4 hamburger buns
Optional Toppings
- lettuce
- tomato
- red onion
- avocado
- Thousand Island dressing
- sliced jalapeños
- cheese (dairy or vegan)
Things You’ll Need
-
Large heavy bottomed skillet
-
Mini food chopper or food processor
-
Mixing bowls
Before You Begin & Recipe Notes
- We highly recommend draining and rinsing your canned black beans. According to the Bean Institute, this simple step can reduce the sodium level by as much as 41%, contributing to a healthier meal.
- The combination of egg and panko breadcrumbs is crucial as a binder for these black bean burgers, helping the mixture form into sturdy patties that won’t fall apart during cooking.
- For a completely vegan black bean burger, easily substitute the egg with a flax egg. To prepare, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it achieves a gel-like consistency.
- If the patty mixture seems too wet, add a little extra panko breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, a tiny bit more soy sauce or even water can help. Chilling the patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking also helps them hold their shape better.
Instructions
-
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, red onion, and green bell pepper. Sauté until tender, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
-
In a mini food chopper or food processor, combine half of the drained and rinsed black beans, chili powder, garlic salt, ground cumin, diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and low sodium soy sauce. Blend or process until the mixture is completely homogenous and smooth.
-
Transfer the blended black bean mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining whole black beans, the cooled sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture, the egg (or flax egg), and the panko breadcrumbs. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are completely mixed and well combined.
-
Using clean or gloved hands, form the mixture into 4 uniform patties. Ensure they are compact and hold their shape well.
-
Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer.
-
Carefully place the patties into the hot oil. Cook for approximately 4 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and have developed a delicious crisp crust.
-
Serve the cooked black bean burgers immediately on hamburger buns, garnished with your favorite toppings and condiments.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Make Ahead – Prepare the black bean mixture and shape it into patties. Place them on a plate (using parchment paper between layers if stacking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Storage – Store any leftover cooked black bean burgers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a preheated oven until thoroughly warmed.
- Freezing – To freeze, form the mixture into patties and flash freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer the patties to an air-tight container or a freezer-safe ziptop bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Troubleshooting Soft Patties – If your patties feel too soft or fragile, incorporate an additional tablespoon or two of panko breadcrumbs. Chilling the formed patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking also helps them firm up and maintain their shape better.
- Grilling Option – These burgers can be grilled! Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. Grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until heated through and lightly charred. Using a grill basket can prevent sticking and breakage.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.