Epic Black Bean Burger (Printable version)

Hearty black bean patties with cumin, smoked paprika, and fresh toppings for a satisfying vegetarian meal

# What You'll Need:

→ Burger Patties

01 - 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
02 - 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
05 - 1/4 cup rolled oats
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 tsp ground cumin
08 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
09 - 1/2 tsp chili powder
10 - 1/2 tsp salt
11 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
13 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Burger Assembly

14 - 4 burger buns, toasted
15 - 4 slices cheddar cheese
16 - 1 avocado, sliced
17 - 1 tomato, sliced
18 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
19 - Lettuce leaves
20 - 4 tbsp mayonnaise
21 - 2 tbsp ketchup
22 - Pickles

# How to Prepare:

01 - Mash black beans in a large bowl using fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
02 - Add chopped red onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, oats, egg, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Mix until thoroughly combined.
03 - Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties.
04 - Heat olive oil in non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden and heated through. Add cheese slices during last minute if using; cover to melt.
05 - Lightly toast burger buns until golden.
06 - Spread mayonnaise and ketchup on buns. Layer with lettuce, black bean patty, tomato, avocado, red onion, and pickles if desired. Top with remaining bun.
07 - Serve hot with preferred sides.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • These burgers have that perfect crispy exterior while staying tender inside, something most veggie burgers completely miss
  • You can customize the toppings endlessly and they actually satisfy that comfort food craving
02 -
  • Letting the mixture rest for 10 minutes before shaping helps the oats absorb moisture and prevents crumbling
  • Do not flip them too early or they will break apart, wait for that golden crust to form first
03 -
  • Mash the beans when they are still slightly warm from the can, they break down so much easier
  • Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking