Save A vibrant, satisfying vegetarian burger bursting with zesty flavors, creamy avocado, and crisp fresh toppings perfect for a quick, wholesome weeknight dinner.
I love making these black bean burgers on busy weeknights because they come together quickly and satisfy everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients
- For the Black Bean Patties: 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed, 1/2 red onion, finely diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed), 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- For Serving: 4 whole-wheat burger buns (or gluten-free alternatives), 1 ripe avocado, sliced, 1 cup shredded lettuce, 1 large tomato, sliced, 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced, 1/4 cup zesty yogurt sauce or chipotle mayo (see Notes), Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
- Step 2:
- Add the red onion, garlic, rolled oats, breadcrumbs, egg, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Step 3:
- Divide the mixture into 4 portions and shape into burger patties.
- Step 4:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface.
- Step 5:
- Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
- Step 6:
- Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired.
- Step 7:
- Assemble the burgers: Spread a dollop of zesty yogurt sauce or chipotle mayo on each bun base. Top with lettuce, a black bean patty, tomato, red onion, and avocado slices. Add the bun top.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately with lime wedges and a side salad, if desired.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table for a casual, tasty meal.
Required Tools
Large bowl, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet or grill pan, spatula, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (if using regular breadcrumbs and buns), egg, and dairy (if using yogurt sauce or cheese). Use gluten-free and vegan substitutions as needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 390 calories, 9 g total fat, 59 g carbohydrates, 16 g protein
Save These black bean burgers are a flavorful and nutritious option that you can customize to fit your dietary needs.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make these burgers vegan?
Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) and substitute the yogurt sauce with plant-based mayo or vegan yogurt.
- → What spices add the zesty flavor?
The mixture includes ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and fresh lime juice, creating a vibrant, zesty taste.
- → Can I use gluten-free ingredients?
Yes, swap breadcrumbs and buns for gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
- → How do I achieve the right patty texture?
Mix the mashed black beans with oats and breadcrumbs to bind, leaving some bean texture for a hearty bite.
- → What toppings complement these burgers best?
Fresh lettuce, tomato slices, thinly sliced red onion, creamy avocado, and a dollop of zesty yogurt or chipotle mayo enhance the flavors beautifully.