Craving a juicy, flavorful burger but want to skip the meat? This vegetarian burger recipe is your new go-to for satisfying that burger craving without compromising on taste or texture.
Packed with wholesome ingredients like black beans, oats, and a blend of spices, these patties come together easily and cook up beautifully with a crispy outside and tender inside. Whether you’re a full-time vegetarian, trying to cut back on meat, or simply looking for a delicious plant-based option, this recipe offers a perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence.
The beauty of this burger lies not just in its taste, but in its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, buns, and sauces to create a burger experience that feels uniquely yours.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra fiber and protein with wholesome plant-based ingredients. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian burger recipe is a winner for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring simple pantry staples and minimal prep time.
The black beans provide a hearty base rich in protein and fiber, while oats bind the patties naturally, eliminating the need for eggs or breadcrumbs.
Another great feature is its adaptability. You can add different spices, herbs, or veggies to tweak the flavor profile to your liking.
Plus, these burgers hold together well during cooking, whether you’re grilling, pan-frying, or baking. They’re perfect for casual dinners, picnics, or even meal prep for busy weeks.
Finally, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, with less saturated fat and more nutrients. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a nutritious twist!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated carrot
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp chili flakes for heat
- Burger buns and toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, etc.)
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Knife and chopping board
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for carrot)
Instructions
- Prepare the beans: Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly. Place them in a mixing bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still a bit chunky for texture.
- Add the veggies and oats: Stir in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and rolled oats. These add moisture, flavor, and help bind the mixture.
- Season the mixture: Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, tomato paste, soy sauce, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything well to combine. If you like a bit of heat, add chili flakes now.
- Form patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. With clean hands, shape each portion into a firm patty about 3/4 inch thick. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more oats; if too dry, a splash of water or soy sauce.
- Chill the patties: Place the patties on a plate or tray, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold together during cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned and crispy on the outside. Be gentle when flipping to keep them intact.
- Assemble your burgers: Toast your burger buns lightly if desired. Place a patty on each bun and add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, onions, cheese, or sauces.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with your choice of sides like sweet potato fries, salad, or coleslaw.
Tips & Variations
“Don’t skip chilling the patties — it really helps them stay together and improves the texture.”
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Boost the protein: Add 1/4 cup cooked quinoa or chopped walnuts to the mix for extra texture and nutrition.
- Switch up the beans: Try chickpeas or kidney beans instead of black beans for a different flavor.
- Add cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or vegan cheese to the patty mixture before shaping for a melty surprise.
- Spice it up: Add chipotle powder, curry powder, or fresh herbs like basil or mint to change the flavor profile.
- Bake instead of frying: Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 burger patty) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 9 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These vegetarian burgers are truly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and toppings. For a classic combo, try them with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato slices, red onions, pickles, and a smear of your favorite mayo or ketchup.
For a Mediterranean twist, top with tzatziki, cucumber slices, and feta cheese. Alternatively, add avocado and spicy chipotle mayo for a creamy, smoky flavor.
Serve alongside sweet potato fries, a crisp green salad, or even some grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Looking for more delicious recipes to complement your burger night? Check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for light starters, or try a refreshing dessert like Lemon Straws Recipe to finish on a bright note.
Conclusion
This vegetarian burger recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the essence of a burger while embracing plant-based eating. It’s simple to prepare, nourishing, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these burgers are sure to impress with their rich flavors and satisfying texture.
By using wholesome ingredients like black beans and oats, you get a delicious meal that supports your health goals without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility allows you to cater it to dietary needs or experiment with new spices and toppings.
Next time you want a tasty, meat-free meal, give this recipe a try — you might just find your new favorite burger!
For more tasty ideas, explore our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or if you want to try a different protein entirely, check out the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for an adventurous option.
📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Burger
Description: A delicious and hearty vegetarian burger made with black beans and spices. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup grated carrot
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and condiments for serving
Instructions
- Mash black beans in a bowl until mostly smooth.
- Add breadcrumbs, onion, carrot, garlic, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, and egg. Mix well.
- Form mixture into 4 patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
- Toast burger buns if desired.
- Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, and preferred condiments.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 15g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 45g
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