Save Hearty, flavorful black bean burgers perfect for meal prep—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with spices and veggies.
I first served these to my family and was amazed at how much they loved the texture and flavor combination.
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 (eg 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.
- Mix 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.
- Optional Freezing:
- 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.
Save My family enjoyed these burgers during a weekend barbecue, making it a memorable, healthy meal together.
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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, without toppings or bun: Calories 220, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 10 g
Save 
These burgers make for a delicious and nutritious meal that's easy to customize and enjoy.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I make the patties hold together?
Using rolled oats and breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture, while letting it rest allows them to absorb moisture and firm up.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, form patties and freeze them on a baking sheet for 30 minutes, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- → What cooking methods work best?
Pan-frying in olive oil yields a crispy exterior and tender interior, but baking at 400°F for 20 minutes is a good alternative.
- → How can I adapt this for a vegan diet?
Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg made from 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water.
- → What toppings complement these patties?
Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and sauces like chipotle mayo or mustard enhance the flavor nicely.
- → Are there allergen considerations?
Contains egg and wheat unless gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns are used. Always check ingredient labels.