Black Bean Burgers
Hearty, flavor-packed black bean patties with a crispy seared crust and tender, chunky center. Seasoned with cumin, smoked paprika, and a gentle kick of chili, these homemade burgers hold together beautifully and taste incredible loaded up on toasted buns with your favorite toppings. Ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Mash the black beans.
1.Place 315g (about 1.5 cups) of the cooked black beans into a large mixing bowl.2.Mash with a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth with some chunky bits.3.Set aside the remaining 105g (about 0.5 cup) of whole beans for texture. - saute · ~6 min
Sauté the aromatics.
1.Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a small skillet over medium heat until shimmering.2.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent (4-5 min).3.Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.4.Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.TIPDon't rush the onions — letting them soften properly prevents raw crunch in the patty. - mix · ~5 min
Combine the burger mixture.
1.Scrape the sautéed onion mixture into the bowl with the mashed beans.2.Add the reserved whole beans, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.3.Mix well with a spoon or your hands until evenly combined.4.Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about 2 cm thick.TIPIf the mixture feels too wet to hold a patty shape, chill in the fridge 10 minutes or add 1 extra tablespoon breadcrumbs. - fry · ~10 min
Cook the black bean patties.
1.Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat.2.Place the patties in the pan without crowding and cook 4-5 minutes per side.3.Flip gently when the underside is well-browned and crisp.4.Cook until deeply golden on both sides and heated through.TIPAvoid flipping too early — a good crust prevents the patty from crumbling. - assemble · ~2 min
Build the burgers.
1.Toast the split buns lightly on the pan or in an oven until golden.2.Place a cooked black bean patty on the bottom half of each bun.3.Top with your favorite fixings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, or a tangy sauce.4.Close with the top bun and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Drain and rinse canned black beans well to remove excess sodium and starch for better texture.
- 2Resist mashing all the beans — leaving some whole adds pleasing texture to the patty.
- 3Chill the formed patties for 10 minutes if the mixture feels sticky for easier handling.
- 4Use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet for a reliably crispy crust.
- 5Let the first side cook undisturbed until deeply browned before flipping to prevent breakage.
- 6To make the patties ahead, shape them and refrigerate on a parchment-lined tray for up to 24 hours.
- 7Leftover cooked patties reheat best in a 350°F oven or dry skillet, not the microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Swap the egg for 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (let sit 5 minutes). The flax gel mimics egg's binding without dairy or eggs.
gluten freeGluten-free
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rolled oats instead of regular breadcrumbs to keep the recipe celiac-friendly.
spicy southwestSpicy southwest
Add 1/4 cup finely chopped pickled jalapeños and a handful of fresh corn kernels to the mix for a smoky-sweet kick.
cheesyCheesy
Fold 1/3 cup crumbled feta or grated cheddar into the patty mixture for a melty, savory surprise inside.
low carbLow-carb
Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour and serve the patty in lettuce wraps instead of a bun to reduce carbs.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Plant-Based Protein
Black beans are a top source of protein and fiber, which support muscle health and digestion.
Rich in Antioxidants
Smoked paprika and cumin deliver antioxidant compounds that help combat inflammation.
High in Dietary Fiber
Each patty provides several grams of fiber from black beans, promoting fullness and gut health.
Low in Saturated Fat
With only a modest amount of vegetable oil and no meat, these burgers are naturally low in saturated fat.
Frequently asked questions
The patty might be too wet — chill it for 10 minutes before cooking, or add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs. Also ensure the first side develops a deep golden crust before flipping.



