Save Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers perfect for meal prep—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with spices and veggies.
I first made these black bean burgers when I wanted a tasty vegetarian option that would hold together well and taste great reheated.
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
- 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.
Save This recipe always brings my family together especially when we enjoy the burgers with sweet potato fries and a cold drink.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the black bean burgers on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and sliced onion. Add your favorite sauces like chipotle mayo, ketchup, or mustard for extra flavor.
Variations
Add chopped cilantro or jalapeño to the burger mix for an extra kick of flavor. Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.
Storage Tips
Make-ahead by freezing shaped patties for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking for convenience and freshness.
Save
These black bean burgers are an easy, healthy meal option that can be customized to your taste and diet.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these patties vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg made from ground flaxseed and water to keep the patties vegan.
- → How do I ensure the patties hold together?
Using rolled oats and breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture and bind the mixture, preventing crumbling during cooking.
- → What cooking methods can I use?
Pan-frying in olive oil until golden is recommended, but baking at 400°F for 20 minutes is also an option.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, patties can be frozen after shaping for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.
- → What sides pair well with these patties?
Serve with sweet potato fries, fresh salad, or your favorite burger toppings and sauces.
- → Are these patties gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make the patties gluten-free.