Name: Best Black Bean Burger Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked black beans (drained and rinsed); ⅓ cup grated yellow onion (about ½ medium); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 chipotle peppers from a can of chipotles in adobo (diced); 2 tablespoons adobo sauce; 1 tablespoon tamari; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 large egg; 1 cup panko bread crumbs; Extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing); Cooking spray (if grilling); Hamburger buns; Desired fixings (lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, ketchup, mustard, etc.)

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If you have been searching for a delicious, wholesome, and hearty veggie option that satisfies those burger cravings, you’ve just found the Best Black Bean Burger Recipe. This recipe is packed with smoky chipotle heat, the earthiness of black beans, and a hint of tangy balsamic vinegar, all coming together in a patty that’s tender but holds its shape perfectly. Whether you’re a longtime plant-based enthusiast or just looking to up your burger game, these black bean burgers will win you over with their perfect balance of flavor, texture, and irresistible charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with shiny black beans sits in the center, with a wooden spoon resting inside it. To the right, a white bowl contains dry white rice, placed next to a folded blue and white striped cloth. Below the bowls, there's a whole onion with light brown skin, a whole garlic bulb, and a single brown egg arranged on the white marbled surface. Around the bowls, there are small white dishes and glass containers holding black pepper, a dark sauce, red sauce, and yellow spice, all carefully placed in a neat layout. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple, fresh, and essential. Each one plays a special role in creating the perfect texture, flavor depth, and vibrant color that make the Best Black Bean Burger Recipe truly stand out.

3 cups cooked black beans: The rich, creamy base that offers protein and fiber while keeping the burgers moist.
⅓ cup grated yellow onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to the mix; about half a medium onion.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a punch of savory warmth that complements the beans beautifully.
2 chipotle peppers in adobo, diced: Bring smoky heat and a slight kick that makes these burgers unforgettable.
2 tablespoons adobo sauce: Amplifies the chipotle’s smokiness and infuses deep flavor.
1 tablespoon tamari: Adds a boost of umami and saltiness without overpowering.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Provides a bright, tangy contrast that lifts the entire patty.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Creates a warm, earthy undertone that pairs perfectly with the chipotle.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the layers of flavor in the patties.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spice to round out the taste.
1 large egg: Serves as the binder to keep your patties intact and tender.
1 cup panko bread crumbs: Lightly breadcrumbs for structure and a pleasant texture.
Extra-virgin olive oil: For brushing, which helps you achieve that perfect sear and moisture.
Cooking spray (if grilling): Ensures the burgers don’t stick to the grill grates.
Hamburger buns and desired fixings: To assemble your masterpiece exactly how you love it.

How to Make Best Black Bean Burger Recipe

Step 1: Mash and Mix the Veggie Goodness

Start by combining your cooked black beans, grated yellow onion, minced garlic, diced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, tamari, balsamic vinegar, cumin, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Using a potato masher, gently mash the mixture until the ingredients come together but you still see some lovely chunks of black bean. This keeps your texture interesting, neither too smooth nor too crumbly.

Step 2: Bind the Mixture

Next, add the large egg and fold it into your bean mixture carefully with a spatula. Then, gradually fold in the panko breadcrumbs: they’re crucial for holding everything together while keeping your burger light and tender. The mixture should feel cohesive and slightly moist. If it feels too wet to shape, pop it in the fridge for about 20 minutes to firm up or give those beans another little mash.

Step 3: Shape Those Patties

With clean hands, form the mixture into 6 equal-sized patties. Taking the time here ensures consistent cooking and that perfect bite every time. The texture should be firm but still give a bit when gently pressed.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and brush it lightly with olive oil. Place the patties in the pan, cooking each side for about 5 minutes until charred and crispy. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning, adjusting as necessary. If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to 400°F, brush the patties with olive oil, lightly spray the grills, and place the burgers down. Grill for 8 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 4 minutes until perfectly seared.

Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy

Once cooked, your black bean patties are ready to be nestled into your favorite hamburger buns and dressed with whatever fixings you love most. From crisp lettuce and juicy tomato slices to creamy avocado or spicy mayo, the combination is endlessly customizable.

How to Serve Best Black Bean Burger Recipe

The image shows two burgers with visible layers. One burger is fully assembled on a white plate with a sesame seed bun on top. The layers from top to bottom include the bun, a thick slice of purple onion, green lettuce, a slice of red tomato, another slice of red onion, pickle slices, a burger patty, and a white paper lining underneath the burger. Next to it, there are crinkle-cut fries. The second burger is open with the top sesame seed bun removed, showing a burger patty with purple onion rings, green lettuce on a white plate with white paper under it. A woman's hand is holding a burger bun near this burger. Around the burgers, there are small jars with sauces, a drink with ice slices, and a knife placed on the marble surface. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your black bean burger from tasty to spectacular. Think crisp lettuce leaves for crunch, thin slices of red onion for bite, juicy tomato for freshness, and creamy avocado or a dollop of chipotle mayo to echo those smoky flavors. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime adds a bright finish that makes each bite sing.

Side Dishes

Complement your Best Black Bean Burger Recipe with sides that add texture and fun. Sweet potato fries or baked potato wedges are fantastic choices, providing a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness. If you’re aiming for something lighter, a vibrant coleslaw or a tangy cucumber salad brings refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, a quinoa salad or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with the smoky intensity of the burgers.

Creative Ways to Present

Why stick to traditional when you can dazzle your guests? Try serving these burgers open-faced with colorful layers of grilled peppers and melted cheese, or turn them into slider bites perfect for parties. Wrapping the patty in lettuce leaves works beautifully for a low-carb twist. You can even crumble leftover patties over a grain bowl for a hearty, protein-packed lunch that doesn’t feel like leftovers at all.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover black bean burgers, no worries. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy their smoky goodness again without compromising flavor or texture.

Freezing

These burgers freeze like a dream. Simply place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge, and they’re ready for reheating or a quick grill session.

Reheating

You can reheat your black bean burgers on the stove in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, flipping gently to warm both sides evenly. Alternatively, the oven set at 350°F works well, just cover loosely with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 10 minutes. Microwaving is possible but may yield a less crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer. This will still bind your patties nicely without compromising taste or texture.

Can I use canned black beans?

Yes! Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce excess sodium and moisture. This helps ensure your patties hold together and don’t turn soggy.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

You can reduce or omit the chipotle peppers and adobo sauce if you prefer a milder flavor. Try adding smoked paprika for a similar smoky quality without the heat.

Can these burgers be grilled outdoors?

For sure! Preheat your grill to 400°F, lightly oil the patties, and grill for about 8 minutes on one side, then 4 minutes on the other. They hold up well and develop a fantastic smoky char.

How do I prevent the burgers from falling apart?

Make sure to mash the beans properly so there are enough mashed surfaces for binding. Also, don’t skip the panko bread crumbs and egg—they’re key. If your mixture is too wet, chilling before shaping helps solidify the patties.

Final Thoughts

There is something so deeply satisfying about biting into a homemade black bean burger that’s packed with flavor, wholesome ingredients, and a little smoky kick. The Best Black Bean Burger Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of how versatile and delicious plant-based cooking can be. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these patties as much as I do. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!