Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegan Black Bean Burger is hearty, flavorful, and packed with plant-based goodness. With a satisfying texture and bold seasonings, it’s perfect for grilling season, meal prep, or a healthier weeknight dinner. These burgers are easy to make, hold their shape well, and pair beautifully with your favorite toppings and sauces.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

black beans (canned or cooked)rolled oatsoniongarlicbell pepperground cuminchili powdersoy saucesmoked paprikabreadcrumbsolive oil (or another neutral oil)saltpepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat if pan-frying.

Drain and rinse the black beans. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

In a food processor, pulse the oats until they form a coarse flour. Transfer to a mixing bowl.

Add the beans, onion, garlic, bell pepper, soy sauce, and spices to the food processor. Pulse until mostly combined but still a bit chunky.

Transfer the mixture to the bowl with oats. Stir in breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together well. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Form the mixture into patties, pressing firmly so they hold their shape.

Place the patties on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, cook in a skillet with a little oil for about 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and heated through.

Serve on buns with your favorite toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4-5 patties.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 20-25 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add corn kernels or chopped jalapeños for a Tex-Mex twist.

Use quinoa instead of oats for added protein.

Add a tablespoon of BBQ sauce to the mixture for smoky sweetness.

Top with vegan cheese and grill for a melty burger experience.

storage/reheating

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.Freeze uncooked or cooked patties for up to 2 months.Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these without a food processor?

Yes, mash the beans with a fork and finely chop all other ingredients. Mix thoroughly by hand.

Do they fall apart when cooking?

Not if properly mixed and cooked; adding enough oats and breadcrumbs ensures they hold together.

Are these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free oats and breadcrumbs to make them fully gluten-free.

Can I grill these?

Yes, but they should be well-chilled beforehand and cooked on a well-oiled grill or grill pan.

What beans can I use instead?

Kidney beans or lentils can work but may change the flavor and texture slightly.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the mixture can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I keep the burgers from being mushy?

Drain beans well, avoid over-processing, and bake or fry until crispy.

Can I use fresh herbs?

Absolutely—cilantro or parsley adds a fresh pop of flavor.

Are these spicy?

They’re mildly spiced. Adjust chili powder to your taste.

Do I need oil to cook them?

Oil helps achieve a crispy crust, but you can bake them oil-free if desired.

Conclusion

Vegan Black Bean Burgers are a versatile and delicious alternative to traditional burgers. Packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable to your taste, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether baked or pan-fried, these patties offer a satisfying, meatless option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.