Save Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers with a crispy exterior and tender center—perfect for a budget-friendly, protein-rich vegetarian or vegan meal.
I remember the first time I made these black bean burgers for my friends. They couldn’t believe how satisfying and tasty they were, and now it’s a staple for our casual dinners.
Ingredients
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Rolled oats: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Red onion: 1/2 small, finely chopped
- Carrot: 1 small, grated
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ground flaxseed (or chia seed): 2 tbsp + 6 tbsp water (egg replacer)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Olive oil (or other vegetable oil): 2 tbsp
- Burger buns: 4 whole wheat or gluten-free (optional)
- Lettuce leaves: (optional)
- Tomato slices: (optional)
- Avocado slices: (optional)
- Vegan mayonnaise or ketchup: (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare flaxseed mixture:
- Mix ground flaxseed with water in a small bowl and set aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Mash beans:
- In a large bowl, mash black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
- Add vegetables and seasonings:
- Add oats, onion, carrot, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper to the beans. Mix well.
- Combine:
- Stir in the flaxseed mixture to combine thoroughly.
- Rest:
- Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to absorb excess moisture.
- Shape patties:
- Form the mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Cook:
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until crisp and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Save My kids love customizing their burgers with avocado and fresh tomato. It’s one of the few meatless meals our whole family gets excited about together.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains soy if using soy sauce. Contains gluten if using regular oats or buns. Check all labels for cross-contamination if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per burger (without bun or toppings): Calories 210, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 31 g, Protein 9 g
Save Enjoy these black bean burgers fresh or freeze leftovers for easy weeknight meals. They’re great for backyard cookouts too.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the patties hold together without eggs?
Ground flaxseed mixed with water acts as a binding agent, providing structure to the patties in place of eggs.
- → Can these burgers be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free oats and gluten-free buns, these patties are suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- → What is the best way to get a crispy exterior?
Cooking the patties in a hot skillet with oil for about 5-6 minutes per side creates a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- → Can I add heat or spice to these patties?
Yes, incorporating chopped jalapeño or chipotle peppers into the mixture adds a flavorful kick.
- → Is it possible to grill these patties instead of pan-frying?
Grilling works well; chilling the patties for 30 minutes beforehand helps them hold their shape on the grill.