Save Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers perfect for meal prep—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with spices and veggies.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because of its perfect balance of texture and flavor. I enjoy making a batch ahead for busy weekdays.
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 (eg chipotle mayo, ketchup, mustard)
Instructions
- Mash Beans:
- In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving a few larger pieces for texture.
- Mix Ingredients:
- Add the oats, breadcrumbs, egg (or flaxseed egg), bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Rest Mixture:
- Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the oats and breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.
- Shape Patties:
- Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties.
- Freeze Option:
- (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.)
- Cook Patties:
- 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.
- Assemble Burgers:
- Toast burger buns if desired. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite sauces.
Save Making these burgers always brings the family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and enjoying a healthy meal.
Notes
Add a handful of chopped cilantro or jalapeño for extra flavor. Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. Pair with a light lager or a citrusy soda.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Potato masher or fork, Knife and cutting board, Non-stick skillet, Spatula
Allergen Information
Contains Egg, Wheat (if not using gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns). For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns. For vegan, use flaxseed egg. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save These black bean burgers are a delicious and nutritious option for any meal that you can easily customize to your taste.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prevent black bean patties from falling apart?
Make sure to mash the beans properly leaving some texture, and allow the mixture to rest so oats and breadcrumbs absorb moisture, helping patties hold shape.
- → Can these patties be frozen for later use?
Yes, shape patties, freeze on a baking sheet for 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw before cooking for best results.
- → What are good substitutes for egg in this dish?
You can use a flaxseed egg by mixing 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water as a vegan binding option.
- → How should I cook the black bean patties?
Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook patties over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through. Baking at 400°F for 20 minutes is also an option.
- → What toppings complement these patties best?
Classic options include lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion, along with sauces like chipotle mayo, ketchup, or mustard to enhance flavor.