This Easy Black Bean Burger is a game-changer for quick, wholesome meals bursting with flavor and texture. In just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll create a hearty patty with a crispy exterior and a tender, savory interior.
The blend of smoky spices, earthy black beans, and caramelized onions makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe proves plant-based eating can be both delicious and effortless.
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Now, back to our burger, this plant-based delight is ready in 12 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy. Serve it on a toasted bun with avocado, pickles, or your favorite toppings for a vibrant, nourishing meal.
Ingredients for Easy Black Bean Burgers
- 3 cups cooked black beans (drained and rinsed)
- ⅓ cup grated yellow onion (about ½ medium onion)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo (diced)
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the same can)
- 1 tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan option)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing)
- Cooking spray (if grilling)
- Hamburger buns (for serving)
- Desired fixings (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the black beans, grated onion, minced garlic, diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, tamari, balsamic vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher to mash until the mixture holds together but still has some visible chunks of black beans.
- Add the egg to the mixture and use a spatula to fold until fully combined. Then, gently fold in the panko bread crumbs.
- Use your hands to form the mixture into 6 patties. The mixture should be cohesive and slightly wet. If it’s too wet to handle, chill in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up or mash the beans a bit more.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Brush the skillet with a little olive oil and cook the burgers for about 5 minutes per side, until charred on both sides. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Alternatively, for grilling: Preheat an outdoor grill to 400°F. Lightly brush the patties with olive oil and spray the grill grates with cooking spray. Grill for 8 minutes on the first side and 4 minutes on the second side.
- Serve the black bean burgers on hamburger buns with your desired fixings. Enjoy!
Delicious Toppings and Sauces to Elevate Your Burger
Take your black bean burger to the next level with creative toppings and sauces. Try avocado slices, caramelized onions, or pickled jalapeños for added flavor. For sauces, whip up a quick chipotle mayo (mix mayo with a bit of adobo sauce) or a tangy lime crema (combine sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt). Don’t forget classic options like lettuce, tomato, and red onion for a fresh crunch!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Black Bean Burger
Pair your burger with sides that complement its smoky, savory flavors. Sweet potato fries, grilled corn on the cob, or a zesty quinoa salad are excellent choices. For a lighter option, serve with a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. These sides make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Patties
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess.
Quick Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Save time by using canned black beans instead of cooking them from scratch. Pre-minced garlic and pre-grated onion can also cut down on prep work. If you’re making these ahead, form the patties and store them in the fridge until ready to cook. This way, you can have a delicious meal ready in minutes!
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Experiment with different flavors to customize your black bean burger. Swap panko for oatmeal or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Add corn kernels or chopped bell peppers for extra texture. For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water). The possibilities are endless!
Easy Black Bean Burger
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
- ⅓ cup grated yellow onion (about ½ medium)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo, diced
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon tamari
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
- Cooking spray, if grilling
- Hamburger buns, for serving
- Desired fixings, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the beans, onion, garlic, chipotles, adobo sauce, tamari, balsamic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher to mash until the mixture holds together but still has some visible chunks of black beans. Add the egg and use a spatula to fold until combined. Then, fold in the panko.
- Use your hands to form the mixture into 6 patties. The mixture should be cohesive and a little wet. If it’s too wet to handle, chill in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up or mash your beans a little bit more.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Brush with a little oil and cook the burgers for about 5 minutes per side, until charred on both sides, turning the heat down as necessary. The exact timing will depend on the heat of your stove and cookware.
- Alternatively, preheat an outdoor grill to 400°F. Lightly brush the patties with olive oil, spray the grill grates, and grill for 8 minutes on the first side and 4 minutes on the second side.
- Serve with hamburger buns and desired fixings.