Bean and Rice Veggie Burger Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Veggie burgers have become a beloved staple for anyone seeking a nutritious, flavorful, and meat-free alternative to traditional burgers. Among the many plant-based options, a bean and rice veggie burger stands out for its hearty texture, rich taste, and incredible versatility.

Combining the protein-packed goodness of beans with the satisfying chew of rice, this burger is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic treat. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to add more wholesome meals to your diet, this recipe is guaranteed to impress both your taste buds and your guests.

Not only is this burger simple to prepare, but it also uses pantry staples that you might already have on hand. The addition of fresh veggies and carefully selected spices ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.

Plus, making your own veggie burgers lets you customize ingredients to suit your dietary preferences and experiment with exciting toppings and buns. Ready to dive into a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying homemade bean and rice veggie burger?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bean and rice veggie burger recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly nutritious, with a great balance of plant-based protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.

The combination of beans and rice creates a complete protein, making it a wholesome option for vegetarians and vegans.

Secondly, the texture is spot-on—soft yet firm enough to hold together without falling apart. This is thanks to the use of binders like oats and ground flaxseed, eliminating the need for eggs or dairy.

The spices and fresh herbs add depth and freshness, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.

Finally, it’s versatile and budget-friendly. You can make a big batch and freeze extras for quick meals later, or switch up the beans and spices for endless variations.

This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting a healthy, tasty, and easy-to-make burger.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked black beans (or any beans of your choice, rinsed and drained if canned)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice (cooled)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (helps bind the mixture)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated carrot (adds moisture and sweetness)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• Burger buns and toppings (lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan mayo, etc.)

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Skillet or non-stick frying pan
• Grater (for carrot)
• Chopping board and knife
• Spatula
• Small bowl (for flax egg mixture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water. Stir well and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This will act as a binder in the burger mixture.
2. Mash the beans: Place the cooked black beans in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until mostly smooth but with some chunks for texture.
3. Combine the base ingredients: Add the cooked brown rice and rolled oats to the mashed beans. Stir to combine evenly.
4. Add the veggies and seasonings: Mix in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and fresh parsley. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Stir well.
5. Add the flax egg binder: Pour in the prepared flax egg and combine it thoroughly with the rest of the ingredients. The mixture should be sticky but hold together when pressed. If too wet, add a little more oats; if too dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.
6. Form the patties: Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions, depending on your preferred size. Shape each portion into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick. Place them on a plate or tray.
7. Preheat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, leaving space between each.
8. Cook the patties: Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently to avoid breaking.
9. Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. Serve on burger buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, or vegan mayo.

Tips & Variations

“For a gluten-free option, replace rolled oats with gluten-free oats or cooked quinoa.”

If you want to add an extra punch of flavor, try incorporating a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce or some fresh chopped jalapeño into the mixture. For more texture, finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers make a great addition.

Another variation is to swap black beans for kidney beans, chickpeas, or lentils—each gives a slightly different taste and texture. You can also experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil depending on your flavor preferences.

To make these burgers even more protein-packed, consider adding 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast, which also lends a subtle cheesy flavor. If you’d like a smokier flavor, a dash of liquid smoke works wonders.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bean and rice veggie burger pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. For a classic burger experience, serve it on a toasted whole wheat bun with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, red onion rings, and creamy avocado or vegan mayo.

For a lighter meal, enjoy the patties on a bed of mixed greens or inside lettuce wraps with your favorite sauces. Sweet potato fries or a fresh cucumber salad make excellent sides to complement the flavors.

To add some extra flair, try topping your burger with sautéed mushrooms, pickled jalapeños, or a slice of vegan cheese. Don’t forget to check out our Vegetarian Burger Recipe Lentils That Everyone Will Love for more creative burger ideas.

Conclusion

Making your own bean and rice veggie burger is not only satisfying but also a fantastic way to bring wholesome, plant-based nutrition into your meals. This recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

By using simple ingredients and pantry staples, you can whip up a batch that’s both budget-friendly and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and add-ins.

Whether you’re new to vegetarian cooking or looking to expand your recipe collection, this burger is a must-try. For even more amazing vegetarian meal ideas, explore our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and happy eating!

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