Save to Pinterest A vibrant, satisfying vegetarian burger bursting with zesty flavors, creamy avocado, and crisp fresh toppings perfect for a quick, wholesome weeknight dinner.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite on busy weeknights. The black bean patties hold together perfectly and combine well with creamy avocado for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- 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 to Pinterest My kids love helping assemble these burgers and picking their favorite toppings which makes mealtime extra fun and interactive.
Notes
For a vegan version, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) instead of the egg and vegan mayo or yogurt for the sauce. Add a slice of cheese or pepper jack for extra indulgence. Try adding grated carrot or corn to the patties for added texture. For a homemade zesty yogurt sauce mix 1/4 cup Greek yogurt with 1 teaspoon lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and a pinch of salt.
Required Tools
Large bowl, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet or grill pan, spatula, knife and cutting board.
Nutritional Information
Calories 390, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 59 g, Protein 16 g per serving.
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This recipe makes for a healthy, flavorful meal any night of the week that everyone will enjoy.
Questions & Answers
- → What can I use instead of egg to bind the patties?
You can substitute the egg with a flax egg made by mixing 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water, letting it sit until gel-like.
- → How do I make the patties hold together better?
Using rolled oats and breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture and bind the mixture. Ensure black beans are mashed but still have some texture for structure.
- → Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to keep the patties gluten-free without compromising taste and texture.
- → What spices bring the most flavor to the patties?
Ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and fresh lime juice add warm, smoky, and zesty notes to the black bean patties.
- → How should I cook the patties for best results?
Cook on a lightly oiled nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat for 4–5 minutes each side until golden brown and warmed through.