A black bean burger is one of my favorite ways to make a hearty, satisfying plant-based meal without much fuss. I get a flavorful, tender patty packed with black beans, spices, and simple wholesome ingredients, and it works beautifully for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated carrot
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg or flax egg
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Directions
I place the black beans in a large bowl and mash them with a fork until they are mostly broken down but still a little chunky.
I add the chopped onion, garlic, grated carrot, and cilantro, then mix everything well.
Then I stir in the breadcrumbs, soy sauce, olive oil, ketchup, mustard, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is evenly combined.
I add the egg or flax egg and mix until the mixture holds together.
I shape the mixture into evenly sized patties.
Next I heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil.
I cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are browned and heated through.
I serve them on buns with toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, or sauce.
Servings and timing
I prepare this recipe in 15 minutes, cook it in 10 minutes, and have it ready in a total of 25 minutes. This recipe makes 4 servings, and each serving has about 220 kcal.
Variations
I like to switch this recipe up depending on what I have in my kitchen. I sometimes use a flax egg to keep it fully plant-based. I also like adding chopped jalapeño for extra heat or a little corn for more texture. When I want a deeper flavor, I add a bit more smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce. I also enjoy serving these patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns for a lighter option.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer first and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When I reheat them, I usually warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side so they stay crisp on the outside. I can also reheat them in the oven or microwave when I need something quick.
FAQs
Can I make these black bean burgers vegan?
Yes, I can make them vegan by using a flax egg instead of a regular egg. That swap helps hold the patties together while keeping the recipe fully plant-based.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
I make sure not to leave the beans too wet, and I mash them well enough so the mixture binds together. I also use breadcrumbs and egg or flax egg to help the patties hold their shape.
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes, I can bake them if I prefer. I place the patties on a lined baking sheet and bake them until they are firm and lightly browned, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What toppings go well with black bean burgers?
I like topping them with lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, pickles, or a creamy sauce. I think they also taste great with a slice of cheese or a spicy mayo.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the mixture ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before shaping and cooking the patties. I find this very helpful when I want to get dinner ready faster.
Conclusion
I think this black bean burger is a great recipe when I want something simple, filling, and full of flavor. It is easy to prepare, flexible enough for different tastes, and perfect for a satisfying homemade meal any day of the week.
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Black Bean Burger
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- Author: Sophia
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This black bean burger is a hearty, flavorful plant-based option made with simple ingredients and bold spices. It delivers a satisfying texture and works perfectly for an easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated carrot
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg or flax egg
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Place the black beans in a large bowl and mash with a fork until mostly broken down but still slightly chunky.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, grated carrot, and cilantro, then mix well.
- Stir in the breadcrumbs, soy sauce, olive oil, ketchup, mustard, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
- Add the egg or flax egg and mix until the mixture holds together.
- Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil.
- Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until browned and heated through.
- Serve on buns with toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, or sauce.
Notes
Use a flax egg to make the recipe fully plant-based.
Add chopped jalapeño or corn for extra flavor and texture.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness or use an oven or microwave for convenience.
The mixture can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 day before cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
