Quick Black Bean Burgers

Name: Quick Black Bean Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or oats; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying; Burger buns and toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado)

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals

I love whipping up these Quick Black Bean Burgers when I need a fast, delicious meal that is both satisfying and healthy. The combination of black beans, spices, and oats results in a satisfying texture that holds together well on the grill or stovetop. These burgers are so flavorful that even non-vegetarians enjoy them! Plus, they can easily be customized with your favorite toppings, perfect for a weekday dinner or a weekend barbecue.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:10:27.297Z

During one of our busy weeknights, we decided to try making vegetarian burgers that wouldn't take forever to prepare. The outcome was beyond our expectations! These Quick Black Bean Burgers came together effortlessly, thanks to canned black beans and a handful of accessible ingredients.

The real trick was in properly mashing the black beans to ensure a good texture without becoming overly mushy. They cooked beautifully on the stovetop in just 10 minutes, and adding spices made every bite a flavorful experience.

You Will Love These Burgers Because
Wholesome ingredients that are both nutritious and hearty
Bursting with flavor from spices and herbs
Quick preparation and cooking time makes them perfect for busy days

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the right texture in your black bean burgers is crucial for a satisfying bite. When mashing the black beans, leave some chunks intact; this enhances the burger's heartiness and prevents it from becoming mushy. The combination of breadcrumbs or oats is essential here, as they provide structure and absorb moisture. If you find your mixture too loose, don’t hesitate to add a bit more breadcrumbs, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.

When forming the patties, be gentle but firm; this ensures they hold together during cooking. If you notice any cracks while shaping, press the mixture back together. For easier handling, wet your hands slightly before forming the patties—this prevents the mixture from sticking to your fingers and helps shape perfect rounds that are about 3/4 inch thick.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking these burgers over medium heat is ideal for achieving a golden-brown crust while ensuring they're heated through without burning. Preheating your skillet with olive oil for about a minute before adding the patties allows for that perfect sear. Watch for golden edges and a nice, crisp exterior; this usually takes about 5 minutes per side. If they aren't browning, your skillet might not be hot enough, so increase the heat slightly but remain cautious to avoid burning.

Another handy tip is to use a spatula to gently press down the patties while they cook. This increases contact with the skillet and helps develop a crispy outer layer. If you’re grilling, ensure the grill is well-oiled to prevent sticking, and flip the burgers carefully with a grill spatula. Cook until they're heated through, and considering using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Ingredients

For the Burgers

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or oats
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying
Burger buns and toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Mixture

In a bowl, mash the black beans with a fork until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in breadcrumbs or oats, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Form the Patties

Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, ensuring they hold together. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Cook the Burgers

In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, until they're nicely browned and heated through.

Assemble and Serve

Place the cooked patties in burger buns and add your favorite toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Burgers!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different spices or add vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the mixture for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These black bean burgers are perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, making them ideal for quick lunches or dinners. You can also freeze uncooked patties; layer parchment paper between them in a freezer-safe container to keep them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, and when you're ready to cook, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frying or grilling.

If you have leftovers, reheating them is simple. Place the patties in a skillet over medium-low heat with a little olive oil for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer texture. To revive their crustiness, you could also pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes instead.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding different spices or ingredients. For instance, incorporating diced bell peppers or corn into the bean mixture can add a refreshing crunch. If you're a fan of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños. For a smoky flavor, replace the smoked paprika with chipotle powder. I often tweak these spices based on what I have on hand, and each variation has turned out delicious!

Toppings can also be tailored to suit your preferences. While lettuce and tomato are classic choices, why not try adding sliced jalapeños, pickled onions, or even a dollop of creamy avocado sauce? A sprinkle of feta or a vegan cheese alternative can introduce a tangy profile. The versatility in toppings truly allows these burgers to fit any flavor palette, whether you're craving something zesty, spicy, or creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these burgers gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats for the mixture.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover burgers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked patties between sheets of parchment paper and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use as a substitute for black beans?

You can use kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer a different flavor.