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Easy Black Bean Burger

Easy Black Bean Burger

This Easy Black Bean Burger recipe is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful plant-based meal that combines black beans with spices, fresh veggies, and wholesome ingredients. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual cookouts, delivering satisfying texture and taste ideal for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone seeking a delicious meat-free option.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg (or 1 flax egg: 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Optional Add-ons

  • 12 finely chopped jalapeños for spice
  • 1/4 cup corn kernels
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Prep the Beans: Rinse and drain one can of black beans thoroughly. Mash them in a mixing bowl using a fork or potato masher until they reach a chunky but mashable consistency, providing the perfect base for binding your patties.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, fresh cilantro or parsley, and egg (or flax egg) to the mashed beans. Stir until the mixture is well combined but still moldable. If too wet, add additional breadcrumbs one tablespoon at a time.
  3. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a firm patty approximately ¾ inch thick for even cooking and ideal portion size.
  4. Cook the Burgers: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes per side until a crispy crust forms and patties are heated through. Handle gently when flipping to avoid breaking.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Place black bean patties on toasted buns and add your favorite toppings such as avocado slices, lettuce, tomato, pickles, chipotle mayo, or salsa. Enjoy as a classic burger or over salads or grain bowls for variety.

Notes

  • Do not over-mash the black beans; keep some texture to avoid dense patties.
  • Adjust chili powder and paprika to customize the spice level to your preference.
  • Chill formed patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold together better.
  • Use a non-stick pan to cook evenly and prevent sticking or breaking.
  • When flipping patties, press gently to retain juices and moisture inside.

Nutrition

Keywords: black bean burger, vegetarian burger, vegan burger, plant-based, quick dinner, easy recipe, gluten-free, healthy burger