Pin it A vibrant, satisfying vegetarian burger bursting with zesty flavors, creamy avocado, and crisp fresh toppings perfect for a quick, wholesome weeknight dinner.
This recipe has become a staple for my family when we want a flavorful meatless meal that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans: drained and rinsed
- 1/2 red onion: finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic: minced
- 1/2 cup rolled oats:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: use gluten-free if needed
- 1 large egg:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice:
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika:
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt:
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: optional
- 4 whole-wheat burger buns: or gluten-free alternatives
- 1 ripe avocado: sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce:
- 1 large tomato: sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion: thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup zesty yogurt sauce or chipotle mayo: see Notes
- Lime wedges: for garnish
Instructions
- Mash Beans:
- In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
- Mix Ingredients:
- Add the red onion, garlic, rolled oats, breadcrumbs, egg, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Patties:
- Divide the mixture into 4 portions and shape into burger patties.
- Heat Skillet:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface.
- Cook Patties:
- Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
- Toast Buns:
- Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired.
- Assemble Burgers:
- Spread a dollop of zesty yogurt sauce or chipotle mayo on each bun base. Top with lettuce, a black bean patty, tomato, red onion, and avocado slices. Add the bun top.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with lime wedges and a side salad, if desired.
Pin it My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these burgers, making weeknights feel special with minimal effort.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 390 calories, 9 g total fat, 59 g carbohydrates, 16 g protein.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten if using regular breadcrumbs and buns, egg, dairy if using yogurt sauce or cheese. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns. For vegan, use flax egg and plant-based sauces.
Required Tools
Large bowl, fork or potato masher, nonstick skillet or grill pan, spatula, knife and cutting board.
Pin it 
This recipe is perfect for quick dinners and can be customized with your favorite toppings for endless variety.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the patties hold together?
Mixing ingredients like oats, breadcrumbs, and egg helps bind the black beans. Make sure to mash the beans but leave some texture for better binding.
- → Can I cook these patties without oil?
Lightly oiling the pan or grill enhances browning and prevents sticking. Use a nonstick skillet to minimize oil use if preferred.
- → What can I use instead of egg for a vegan version?
A flax egg made from ground flaxseed and water provides a plant-based binder suitable for vegan diets.
- → How can I add more texture to the patties?
Incorporate grated carrot or corn kernels into the blend for added crunch and flavor variation.
- → What toppings complement these black bean patties?
Creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, red onion, and a zesty yogurt or chipotle mayo sauce add balance and freshness.
- → Are gluten-free options available?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to accommodate gluten sensitivities.