Go Back

Black Bean Burger

A protein-packed, flavorful black bean burger that is budget-friendly and easy to prepare, perfect for family meals and meal planning.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, vegetarian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans (or 3 cups cooked black beans) The star ingredient packed with protein and fiber.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing and added healthy fats.
  • 1 chopped onion Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic (pressed) Essential for that savory, aromatic quality.
  • 4 tablespoons tomato paste Helps to bind the mixture and add umami.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Enhances the savory notes.
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle powder (can substitute with 1 tsp smoked paprika + ¼ tsp chili powder) A smoky depth of flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Brightens the overall taste.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder.
  • ¾ cup feta cheese (crumbled) Adds creaminess and a salty finish.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs For structure; can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste + black pepper to taste) Seasoning to bring out the flavors.
  • 4 burger buns toasted buns To hold everything together.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Spread black beans on a baking tray and bake for 20 minutes to reduce moisture.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions for 3 minutes until they soften, then add the pressed garlic, chopped jalapeño, tomato paste, cumin, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. In a food processor, combine half of the baked beans with all of the flavor base. Add balsamic vinegar, egg, and breadcrumbs. Pulse briefly until mixed but still chunky.
  4. Transfer to a bowl, fold in the remaining beans and crumbled feta, and shape into 4–6 patties.
Cooking
  1. Pan-fry: In an oiled skillet over medium-low heat, cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden.
  2. Air-fry: Brush with oil and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
  3. Grill: Preheat grill to 400°F (200°C). Brush patties with oil and grill for 5–8 minutes per side.
  4. Oven-bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
Assembly
  1. Serve the burger between toasted, buttered buns with chipotle sauce or a mix of sriracha and mayo, topped with lettuce, guacamole, and pickled onions.

Notes

Mistakes to Avoid: Overworking the bean mixture, not drying the beans first, skipping the seasoning. Pro Tips: Use wax paper when shaping patties to minimize sticking. Make a double batch as these burgers freeze well.