I Need a Recipe

Weeknight • Vegetarian

Speedy Black Bean Burgers

Quick and flavorful homemade black bean burgers that are hearty and satisfying for a vegetarian meal.

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

Forget sad, crumbly veggie burgers! These Speedy Black Bean Burgers are packed with flavor, hold together beautifully, and come together in a flash. They're a fantastic vegetarian option for busy weeknights, offering a hearty and satisfying bite that even meat-eaters will love. Pile them high with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

For the Burgers

  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying

For Serving

  • 4 burger buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, onion slices
  • Avocado slices or guacamole
  • Salsa or hot sauce
  • Cheese slices (cheddar, pepper jack)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, mash rinsed and drained black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly mashed but still with some texture.

  2. Step 2

    Add breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, egg, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the mashed beans. Mix well until everything is combined and forms a cohesive mixture.

  3. Step 3

    Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Press them gently to ensure they hold their shape.

  4. Step 4

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the black bean patties in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. If adding cheese, place a slice on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.

  5. Step 5

    Serve hot on burger buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, salsa, or hot sauce.

Tips

  • Ensure the black beans are very well drained to prevent soggy burgers.
  • If the mixture feels too wet, add another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a tiny splash of water.

More recipes you'll love

Creamy Tomato Chickpea Curry
Weeknight•35 min
Creamy Tomato Chickpea Curry

A rich and fragrant vegetarian curry packed with chickpeas and tomatoes in a luscious, spiced coconut sauce.

Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
Easy•20 min
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas

Flavorful black beans and sweet corn are layered with melty cheese in crispy tortillas for a quick, satisfying meal.