Black Bean Burger Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade black bean burgers with this easy baking recipe. Featuring a perfect blend of beans, spices and vegetables for a crispy exterior and tender center. These protein-packed vegetarian patties are foolproof and freezer-friendly for quick weeknight meals.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

30 mins

Serves:

6 burgers

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 (400g) cans black beans, drained and rinsed</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium red onion, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3 cloves garlic, minced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 red bell pepper, finely diced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">90g panko breadcrumbs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 large eggs, beaten</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">40g rolled oats</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for cooking</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp soy sauce</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp cumin</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp smoked paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp chili powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30g fresh coriander, chopped (or parsley)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">½ tsp black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">6 burger buns</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Toppings: sliced cheese, lettuce, tomato, avocado, pickles, condiments</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 210 calories

🥑 Fat: 5 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 1 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 31 g

🍭 Sugar: 2 g

🍗 Protein: 12 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 62 mg

🧂 Sodium: 420 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Food processor</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large baking sheet</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large mixing bowl</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the drained and rinsed black beans onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture, which prevents mushy burgers. Bake the beans for 10-12 minutes until slightly dried out but not crispy. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>While the beans are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The caramelization develops deeper flavors in your burgers. Set aside to cool.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Transfer about two-thirds of the baked beans to a food processor and pulse several times until roughly chopped but not completely pureed. You want some texture remaining – this creates the perfect burger consistency with both structure and visible bean pieces.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>In a large mixing bowl, combine the processed beans, whole beans, cooked vegetables, beaten eggs, panko breadcrumbs, oats, remaining olive oil, soy sauce, and all seasonings. Mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be slightly wet but hold together when formed into a patty. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a touch more olive oil.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>With lightly dampened hands (to prevent sticking), divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 2cm thick. Press firmly to ensure they hold together, and create a slight indent in the center with your thumb – this prevents the burgers from doming as they cook.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Arrange the formed patties on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This resting period is essential as it allows the ingredients to bind together and flavors to develop.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Brush the chilled patties lightly with olive oil on both sides. Bake for 20-25 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through, until the burgers are firm and crisp on the outside. Look for a deep golden brown color with a lightly crisp exterior – this contrast with the tender interior creates the perfect texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>If desired, add sliced cheese on top of each patty during the last 2 minutes of baking to melt. Meanwhile, lightly toast your burger buns. Assemble your burgers with your favorite toppings and condiments. The patties will firm up slightly as they cool, so allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Black Bean Burger Recipe?

Black Bean Burger Recipe uses black beans, red onion, garlic, red bell pepper, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, rolled oats, olive oil, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, fresh coriander, salt and pepper. These are formed into patties and served on burger buns with your favourite toppings.

How to cook Black Bean Burger Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Black Bean Burger Recipe by first drying your rinsed beans in the oven, then sautéing vegetables for flavour. Pulse some beans in a food processor, combine with whole beans, vegetables and seasonings. Form into patties, chill them for at least 30 minutes, then bake until crispy outside and tender inside. Top with cheese and serve on toasted buns with your favourite toppings.

Why do veggie burgers often fall apart and how can I prevent this?

Veggie burgers fall apart due to excess moisture and inadequate binding. The key is drying the beans in the oven first, using sufficient binders like eggs and breadcrumbs, and chilling the formed patties before cooking. This resting period allows ingredients to bind properly, creating patties that hold their shape.

Can you freeze homemade bean burgers for later use?

Absolutely! Once formed, place the uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They'll keep for up to 3 months. Cook straight from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time. This makes them perfect for quick weeknight meals.

What's the secret to creating a crispy exterior on vegetarian burgers?

The secret lies in removing excess moisture from beans by oven-drying them first, using panko breadcrumbs for texture, and ensuring the outside is lightly brushed with oil before baking. The oven's dry heat creates a deliciously crisp exterior while maintaining a tender interior.

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