Pin It Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers perfect for meal prep—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with spices and veggies.
This recipe has been my go-to staple for meal prepping quick and delicious vegetarian meals that satisfy everyone at home.
Ingredients
- Beans & Base: 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed), 1 large egg (or flaxseed egg for vegan 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup finely diced red onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Spices & Flavorings: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- To Cook: 2 tbsp olive oil
- To Serve: 4 burger buns, Lettuce leaves, Tomato slices, Sliced red onion, Your favorite sauces (e.g., chipotle mayo, ketchup, mustard)
Instructions
- Mash Beans:
- In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth leaving a few larger pieces for texture
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the oats, breadcrumbs, egg (or flaxseed egg), bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper Mix until fully combined
- Rest Mixture:
- Let the mixture rest for 5 10 minutes to allow the oats and breadcrumbs to absorb moisture
- Shape Patties:
- Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties
- Freeze Patties (Optional):
- For make ahead, place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes Transfer to a freezer bag for storage up to 3 months thaw before cooking
- Cook Patties:
- Heat olive oil in a large non stick skillet over medium heat Cook patties 5 7 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through
- Assemble Burgers:
- Toast burger buns if desired Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite sauces
Pin It This dish quickly became a family favorite perfect for casual dinners and weekend gatherings.
Notes
For a vegan version, use a flaxseed egg instead of regular egg Add a handful of chopped cilantro or jalapeño for extra flavor Patties can also be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes flipping halfway Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad Pair with a light lager or a citrusy soda
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Potato masher or fork Knife and cutting board Non stick skillet Spatula
Allergen Information
Contains Egg, Wheat (if not using gluten free breadcrumbs and buns) For gluten free Use gluten free breadcrumbs and buns For vegan Use flaxseed egg Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies
Pin It 
Enjoy these black bean burgers as a nutritious and customizable meal perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent black bean patties from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is well combined and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to absorb moisture. Using oats and breadcrumbs helps bind the patties together for better stability during cooking.
- → Can these black bean patties be made vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) to keep the patties vegan-friendly without compromising their texture.
- → What cooking methods work best for these patties?
Pan-frying in olive oil over medium heat ensures a crispy exterior, but baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, is a convenient alternative.
- → Are there gluten-free options for this dish?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to maintain a gluten-free meal while keeping the texture intact.
- → What flavors enhance these black bean patties?
Spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder pair wonderfully, while fresh vegetables such as red bell pepper and onion add brightness and depth.