Delicious Vegan Bean Burger Recipe

This Delicious Vegan Bean Burger is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to bring together — the kind of plant-based burger that doesn’t feel like a compromise at all. It’s tender inside, crisp outside, and holds beautifully whether you serve it on a bun or in a fresh bowl.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup grated carrot or finely chopped bell pepper
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2–3 tbsp oil for cooking

Optional swap: Use kidney beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have on hand.

Steps

  1. Mash the beans.
    In a bowl, mash the beans until mostly smooth. Leave a few pieces for texture — it helps the patties stay hearty.
  2. Add the veggies and seasonings.
    Mix in onion, garlic, carrot, breadcrumbs, flaxseed, soy sauce, and all spices. Don’t worry if the mixture seems soft right now — it firms up as it rests.
  3. Rest the mixture.
    Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes so the flax and breadcrumbs can absorb moisture. This is the secret to burgers that don’t fall apart.
  4. Shape the patties.
    Form 4 even patties, pressing gently so they hold together without becoming dense.
  5. Cook until golden.
    Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until crisp around the edges and warmed through.
  6. Let them settle.
    Give them a minute to rest off the heat it helps the patties stay firm when you serve them.

Chef’s Tips

  • If your mixture feels too wet, add a spoonful of breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water or a bit more soy sauce.
  • Avoid over-flipping one good flip keeps the patties intact.
  • Freeze uncooked patties between parchment sheets for quick future meals.

Variations

  • Southwest Style: Add corn kernels and a pinch of chipotle powder.
  • Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped parsley, lemon zest, and a spoonful of tahini.
  • BBQ Burger: Brush patties with BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking for a sticky, flavorful glaze.