Black Bean Burger

This easy black bean burger recipe transforms plant based patties into a wholesome meal packed with flavor! Plus, they come together in less than 30 minutes.

  • Total 28 minutes
  • Serves 4 burgers
  • Dinner
  • American
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Black Bean Burger lifted up on a spatula

This easy black bean burger recipe transforms plant based patties into a wholesome meal packed with flavor! Plus, they come together in less than 30 minutes.

Four Black Bean Burger patties on a baking sheet with a spatula more

Why this recipe works

Black beans can do some pretty incredible work in the kitchen. From hearty black bean soup to perfectly spiced black bean tacos all the way to this wholesome black bean burger recipe, they make an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and protein when you’re on a plant based diet or looking for an alternative to beef.

Believe us when we say that these vegetarian burgers are anything but bland. Plenty of spices and seasonings pump the patties with life along with diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, soy sauce, red onion, and bell peppers for loads of flavor and texture. This is by far the best black bean burger we’ve ever sunk our teeth into!

Black Bean Burger on a stone serving board

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredients for Black Bean Burger

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

BLACK BEANS – You will need two 14-ounce cans of black beans that have been drained and rinsed for this recipe.

VEGETABLES – Minced garlic, red onion, and bell peppers plus a can of diced chipotle in adobo sauce will make these burgers stand out. They also add a welcome bit of texture to the burgers. We will sautee the garlic, onion, and bell peppers in a skillet with butter. Use vegan butter if needed!

BINDER – The egg and panko breadcrumbs work as a binder along with the black beans to help shape the mixture into a patty. For a vegan alternative to eggs, substitute with a flax egg which is 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2 1/2 tablespoons of water.

How to Make Black Bean Burger

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

  1. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, red onion and green pepper. Sauté until tender, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool.sauteed bell peppers, onion, and garlic in a skillet
  2. To a mini food chopper, add half of the black beans, chili powder, garlic salt, cumin, chipotles, and soy sauce. Blend/process until completely homogenous.black beans in a food processor with seasonings, chipotle peppers, and soy sauce
  3. To a large mixing bowl, add remaining black beans, onion mixture, blended black bean mixture, egg, and bread crumbs. Stir together until completely mixed.blended black bean mixture added to bowl with an egg, sauteed veggies, and whole black beansbreadcrumbs added to bowl with black bean mixtureblack bean burger mixture in a mixing bowl
  4. Using gloved hands, form mixture into 4 patties.hand holding black bean burger patty
  5. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  6. Cook patties in oil until nicely browned, about 4 minutes per side.black bean burgers in a skilletcooked black bean burgers in a skillet
  7. Serve on sandwich buns with your favorite toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Can you make black bean burgers ahead of time?

Yes, this black bean burger recipe is perfect for prepping in advance. Prepare the mixture and shape them into patties, then place them on a plate (separating layers with parchment paper if needed) and refrigerate up to a day in advance.

How do you store leftover black bean burgers?

Store leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.

Can you freeze black bean burgers?

Yes, absolutely! To freeze, form them into patties, place them on a baking sheet, and flash freeze. Once solid, transfer the patties to an air-tight container or freezer safe ziptop bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Close up photo of a Black Bean Burger with the top bun removed

Serving Suggestions

Serve your black bean burger with your favorite toppers such as pickles, avocado, sliced jalapenos, crisp lettuce, raw or pickled onions, and tomato. A drizzle of hot sauce or creamy chipotle sauce add an extra touch of heat if that’s your fancy. Regular or vegan cheese is always welcome on our patties as well. All in all, treat them as you would any other burger and garnish to your heart’s content.

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