There’s something wonderfully satisfying about biting into a burger that not only tastes amazing but also makes you feel good about what you’re eating. That’s exactly what you get with these Black Bean Burgers! With each succulent bite, you’re greeted by the hearty flavors of perfectly seasoned black beans, a hint of cumin, and the delightful crunch of breadcrumbs.
Jump to:
I discovered this treasure of a recipe during a week when fast food was tempting me at every turn. With just a handful of pantry staples, I whipped up these vibrant patties in under 30 minutes. The best part? They are versatile enough to please both meat lovers and plant-based eaters alike. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a homemade meal, these Black Bean Burgers are a delightful solution that proves delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Black Bean Burger
- This Black Bean Burger is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
- You’ll love the burst of flavor from the perfectly seasoned black beans combined with aromatic garlic and onions.
- The versatility of these burgers means they can be customized with your favorite toppings, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
- Not only are they visually appealing with their lovely golden-brown crust, but they’re also a crowd-pleasing choice that will impress both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Black Bean Burger Ingredients
• Discover the essentials to create your own delightful black bean burger at home!
For the Burger Patties
- Black beans – using canned beans saves time and ensures a creamy texture.
- Breadcrumbs – opt for gluten-free if desired, these help bind the patties together.
- Onion – finely chopped onions add a sweet, savory flavor that enhances the burger.
- Garlic – minced garlic infuses delicious aroma and taste into each bite.
- Ground cumin – this warm spice is key for a rich, earthy flavor profile.
- Chili powder – adds a mild heat and depth, but adjust to your spice tolerance.
- Egg – acts as a binder to hold everything together, making the burgers easy to cook.
These Black Bean Burger ingredients set the stage for a tasty, nutritious meal that everyone will love!
How to Make Black Bean Burger
Mash
Start by mashing the black beans in a large bowl until they are chunky. The goal is to achieve a nice texture that will hold the patties together while still allowing for some bean bites.Sauté
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions turn translucent and aromatic.Combine
Mix the sautéed onion and garlic into the mashed beans. Add in breadcrumbs, ground cumin, chili powder, and egg. Stir everything together until well combined and the mixture holds together nicely.Shape
Form the mixture into patties that are about ½ inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly and creates that beautiful crust when seared.Cook
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You want a lovely sear for added flavor!
Optional: Serve topped with avocado or your favorite salsa for extra freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Black Bean Burger
Room Temperature: Black Bean Burgers can be left out for up to 2 hours if you’re serving them at a gathering. Ensure they’re covered to keep them fresh.
Fridge: Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the skillet or microwave before serving to enjoy their full flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy.
Black Bean Burger Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these black bean burgers to match your taste buds and dietary needs!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for that extra kick of heat. Your taste buds will dance with every bite!
Sweetness: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for a hint of sweetness and vibrant color. It’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies!
Herb Delight: Throw in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to enhance the flavor profile. The fresh aroma will elevate your burgers to gourmet status.
Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) to make these burgers completely plant-based. This swap keeps them just as delicious!
Quinoa Boost: Replace some or all of the breadcrumbs with cooked quinoa for added protein and texture. It’s a superfood twist that will leave you feeling fantastic.
Extra Crunch: For a crispy outer layer, coat the patties in panko breadcrumbs before frying. This will give you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
Cheesy Love: Add shredded cheese into the patty mixture for a cheesy version. Or, top with your favorite cheese during cooking for that gooey goodness.
Flavor Infusion: Try experimenting with different spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for a unique flavor boost. Each variation brings a refreshing twist!
These ideas not only keep the recipe exciting but also allow you to cater to different palates and preferences within your family or friend circle. Enjoy the process of creating your perfect black bean burger!
What to Serve with Black Bean Burger?
Let’s create a delightful meal that elevates your Black Bean Burger experience and tantalizes your taste buds!
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch complement the hearty burger, adding a lovely contrast of textures.
Zesty Coleslaw: Crisp cabbage and a tangy dressing provide a refreshing bite that balances out the richness of the burger.
Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocados mixed with lime and cilantro bring a bright, refreshing note that enhances every bite.
Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa tossed with fresh veggies and a light vinaigrette adds protein and a delightful chew.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky-sweet grilled corn drizzled with lime and chili powder makes for a fun, finger-licking side dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A bubbly drink with a citrus twist refreshes the palate between bites; it’s perfect for summer!
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a decadent note with this creamy, indulgent dessert that feels decadent yet healthy.
Make Ahead Options
These Black Bean Burgers are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy cooks! You can prepare the patty mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just follow the steps to mash the beans, sauté the onion and garlic, then combine all ingredients in a bowl. Transfer the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate it. While the flavors meld together, you’ll save invaluable time later. When you’re ready to cook, simply shape the mixture into patties and pan-fry them for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade burgers with minimal effort, ready to delight your taste buds on a busy weeknight!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making black bean burgers, ensure you mash the beans just enough to retain some texture for a delicious bite.
- Avoid over-sautéing the onion and garlic; a few minutes is all you need for them to become fragrant and not browned.
- When combining ingredients, it’s essential to stir gently but thoroughly to maintain the mixture’s structure.
- For best results, cook the patties on medium-high heat to achieve that golden-brown crust in about 4 minutes on each side.
Black Bean Burger Recipe FAQs
What type of black beans should I use for the Black Bean Burger?
I recommend using canned black beans for convenience and a creamy texture. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before mashing. Alternatively, you can cook dried black beans from scratch, but this will require more time.
How long can I store leftover Black Bean Burgers in the fridge?
You can store cooked Black Bean Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them thoroughly in a skillet or microwave to bring back their savory flavors!
Can I freeze Black Bean Burgers and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your patties, wrap each individual Black Bean Burger in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why are my Black Bean Burgers falling apart?
If your patties are crumbling, it could be due to not enough binding agent. Make sure to use the egg as instructed, and if needed, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help them hold together. Also, gently mash the beans without pureeing them; this maintains texture and structure.
Are Black Bean Burgers suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs when making your Black Bean Burger. They are a fantastic plant-based alternative for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, gluten-free meal, with plenty of flavor to satisfy all palates.
Can my dog eat Black Bean Burgers?
While black beans in moderation can be safe for dogs, avoid giving them the burgers with added spices and seasonings like garlic and onion, which can be harmful to pets. Stick to plain mashed black beans without extras if you want to share a little treat with your furry friend!
Black Bean Burger
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mash the black beans in a large bowl until they are chunky.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix the sautéed onion and garlic into the mashed beans. Add in breadcrumbs, ground cumin, chili powder, and egg. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Form the mixture into patties that are about ½ inch thick.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
