This easy black bean burger is tasty and healthy! Made with black beans, spices, and oats, it’s a great veggie option that’s packed with flavor.
Who knew being healthy could be this yummy? I love cooking them up on the grill. Serve with fresh veggies for a fun and colorful meal that’s sure to please!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: These are the star of our burger, providing protein and fiber. If you don’t have canned black beans, you can use cooked dried beans instead for a fresher taste. Just ensure they’re well-drained for the right texture.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds crunch and sweetness. If you prefer, you can use red, yellow, or even jalapeño for a kick. Plus, if you’re not a fan of bell peppers, you can skip them entirely or use grated carrots.
Egg: It helps bind the ingredients. For a vegan option, replace it with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or 1/4 cup of mashed banana. Keep in mind that this might alter the taste slightly.
Oats: These act as a binding agent. Quick oats work best, but rolled oats will do. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Toppings: Get creative! I love adding mashed avocado and fresh greens. You can also swap cheese for a dairy-free option or skip it entirely. The burger will taste great without it too!
How Can I Make Sure My Black Bean Patties Hold Together?
Achieving the perfect texture where your patties don’t fall apart is essential. Here’s how to do it:
- Mashed Beans: Don’t over-mash! Leave some chunks for texture while ensuring everything sticks together.
- Rest the Mixture: Let the combined mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the oats to absorb moisture and helps with the binding.
- Shaping the Patties: Be gentle but firm when shaping the patties. Make them slightly thicker to prevent them from falling apart while cooking.
- Cooking Temperature: Medium heat works best. If the heat is too high, they may burn on the outside before cooking through.
With these tips, your black bean burgers should hold together beautifully and be delicious!
Easy Healthy Black Bean Burger Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup quick oats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Assembly:
- Whole wheat burger buns
- Leaf lettuce
- Sliced red onion (or caramelized onion)
- Sliced cheese (optional)
- Guacamole or mashed avocado
- Ketchup or preferred sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing and mashing the ingredients, forming the patties, and then cooking them to perfection on the stove. Total time from start to finish is about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Black Bean Mixture:
In a medium bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the black beans. Aim for a mostly smooth consistency but leave some chunky bits for texture. This adds to the burger’s character!
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, stir in the finely chopped green bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. These ingredients bring great flavor and freshness to your black bean burgers.
3. Combine with Egg and Spices:
In a small bowl, beat the egg and then mix it into the black bean mixture. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix until well combined.
4. Incorporate Oats:
Add the quick oats to the mixture. This will help bind everything together. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the oats to absorb some moisture, making your patties easier to handle.
5. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Ensure they are compact so they hold together when cooking.
6. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. They should be nicely browned and heated through when done.
7. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the whole wheat buns until they are warm and golden.
8. Assemble Your Burger:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place a patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add cheese if you like it melted, along with your choice of toppings: caramelized onions or fresh red onions, guacamole, ketchup, and a layer of leaf lettuce. Cap it off with the other half of the bun.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your healthy, flavorful black bean burger! These burgers are not only delicious but also filling and packed with nutrients. Perfect for any meal!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Black Bean Burger Recipe
Can I Use Canned Black Beans for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned black beans are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium. If you’re using dried beans, be sure to cook and cool them beforehand for the best results.
How Can I Make These Burgers Vegan?
You can easily make this recipe vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens. It works great as a binding agent!
How Do I Store Leftover Black Bean Burgers?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Freeze the Patties?
Yes! These patties freeze wonderfully. Before cooking, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. You can cook them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
