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Weeknight • Vegetarian

Easy Black Bean Burgers

Whip up satisfying, flavorful homemade black bean burgers that are simple to prepare and deliciously hearty.

Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Easy Black Bean Burgers

Forget store-bought! Making your own Black Bean Burgers is surprisingly easy and results in a much more flavorful and satisfying patty. These burgers are packed with plant-based protein, vibrant spices, and hold together beautifully. Perfect for grilling, pan-frying, or baking, they're a fantastic, crowd-pleasing vegetarian option!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and thoroughly drained
  • 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
  • Burger buns and toppings (lettuce, tomato, avocado, cheese, etc.), for serving

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, mash one can of the black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some beans whole for texture. Add the second can of black beans (whole) to the bowl.

  2. Step 2

    Add the finely chopped onion, cooked brown rice or quinoa, breadcrumbs, egg (or flax egg), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the bowl with the black beans. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands until well combined and the mixture can hold its shape. Don't overmix.

  3. Step 3

    Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties, about 3/4-inch thick. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a tiny bit of water or vegan Worcestershire sauce.

  4. Step 4

    Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. (Alternatively, bake at 375°F/190°C for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side).

  5. Step 5

    Serve the black bean burgers on buns with your favorite toppings.

Tips

  • Ensure the black beans are very well drained to prevent soggy burgers.
  • For a vegan option, use a 'flax egg' (1 tbsp ground flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 min) instead of a chicken egg.
  • These patties can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, or frozen raw for up to 1 month.

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