Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Veggie burgers are not only tasty but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables and plant-based proteins into your diet. This recipe is quick, easy, and made with wholesome ingredients like black beans, oats, and sweet potatoes, which make for a hearty and satisfying patty. They’re perfect for any meal, whether you’re serving them as a main dish or making a plant-based version for a cookout. With endless possibilities for toppings, sauces, and buns, veggie burgers can easily be adapted to suit everyone’s preferences.
Ingredients
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and mashed
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1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice
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1/2 cup grated sweet potato (about 1 small sweet potato)
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version)
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1/4 cup rolled oats (for texture)
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Olive oil for frying
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4 burger buns (or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option)
Optional toppings:
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Avocado slices
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Lettuce
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Tomato slices
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Pickles
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Cheese (dairy or vegan)
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Ketchup, mustard, or your favorite sauce
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Veggie Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the mashed black beans, cooked quinoa (or rice), grated sweet potato, breadcrumbs, oats, chopped onion, and garlic. Stir well to combine. -
Add Seasonings:
Stir in the soy sauce (or tamari), ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs or oats until it holds together. If it feels too dry, add a splash of water to help bind the mixture. -
Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Press them firmly to ensure they hold together. -
Cook the Patties:
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Be careful when flipping, as the patties may be delicate. You can also bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for a hands-off option. -
Assemble the Burgers:
Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired. Place a veggie patty on each bun and top with your favorite toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese, and sauces. -
Serve:
Serve the veggie burgers immediately with a side of fries, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 10-15 minutes (for frying)
Variations
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Sweet Potato and Chickpea Veggie Burger: Replace the black beans with chickpeas and add a bit of grated ginger for a unique twist.
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Mushroom Veggie Burger: Use finely chopped mushrooms (preferably cooked) in place of some of the grains or beans for an earthy, savory flavor.
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Lentil Veggie Burger: Replace the black beans with cooked lentils for a protein-packed alternative.
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Spicy Veggie Burger: Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure your tamari sauce is gluten-free to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover veggie burger patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: To freeze, place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or cook in a skillet for a few minutes on each side until heated through.
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Reheating: Reheat leftover veggie burgers in a skillet with a bit of oil, or in the microwave for a quick fix.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?
Yes! You can use kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas instead of black beans. Each will give the burger a slightly different flavor and texture but will work just as well.
Can I make these veggie burgers ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. If you’re freezing them, place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking.
Are these veggie burgers gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce, these veggie burgers are naturally gluten-free.
Can I bake the veggie burger patties instead of frying them?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I add cheese to these veggie burgers?
Yes! Add a slice of your favorite cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or vegan cheese) on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking to melt.
Can I use a food processor to make the veggie burger mixture?
Yes, using a food processor can help combine the ingredients more quickly. Just pulse the mixture a few times until everything is finely chopped and well combined, but be careful not to over-process it into a paste.
Conclusion
Veggie Burgers are a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers, and they’re perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal or reduce their meat consumption. With their hearty texture and delicious flavor, these homemade veggie burgers are just as satisfying as their meaty counterparts. Customize the recipe to suit your taste, and serve them up with your favorite toppings for a delicious and nutritious meal. Whether you’re grilling, frying, or baking, veggie burgers are sure to be a crowd favorite!
PrintVeggie Burger
Veggie Burgers are a hearty, satisfying, and flavorful alternative to traditional meat burgers. Made with black beans, quinoa, and sweet potatoes, these burgers are packed with plant-based proteins and vegetables. They’re perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, meat-free meal without sacrificing taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and mashed
1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice
1/2 cup grated sweet potato (about 1 small sweet potato)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version)
1/4 cup rolled oats (for texture)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying
4 burger buns (or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option)
Optional toppings: Avocado slices, Lettuce, Tomato slices, Pickles, Cheese (dairy or vegan), Ketchup, mustard, or your favorite sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Veggie Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed black beans, cooked quinoa (or rice), grated sweet potato, breadcrumbs, oats, chopped onion, and garlic. Stir well to combine.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce (or tamari), ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs or oats until it holds together. If it feels too dry, add a splash of water to help bind the mixture.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Press them firmly to ensure they hold together.
- Cook the Patties: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Be careful when flipping, as the patties may be delicate. You can also bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for a hands-off option.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired. Place a veggie patty on each bun and top with your favorite toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese, and sauces.
- Serve: Serve the veggie burgers immediately with a side of fries, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a vegan option, substitute cheese with vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether.
- If you prefer a spicier burger, add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the veggie mixture.
- You can freeze uncooked patties for later use—just store them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag.
- If you want a different texture, you can try substituting the quinoa with lentils or chickpeas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg