Black Bean Burgers

These black bean burgers are hearty, protein-packed, and designed to hold their shape while still staying tender inside. Browning them on the stovetop first creates a flavorful crust, while finishing them in the oven allows the patties to set without drying out. They freeze beautifully, making them an ideal component for meal prep flows throughout the week.

Ingredients

2 (14-ounce) cans black beans, drained, rinsed, and patted dry

1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

¾ cup (100 g) finely chopped bell pepper

1 finely chopped yellow onion

3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 Tablespoon)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ cup (60 g) breadcrumbs

½ cup (70 g) feta cheese (or ¼ cup nutritional yeast for plant-based)

2 large eggs (or flax eggs for plant-based)

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (see note for vegetarian/vegan version)

2 Tablespoons ketchup, BBQ sauce, or tomato paste

Instructions

1. Cook the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook slowly until softened and lightly translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly while preparing the remaining ingredients.

2. Pulse the beans:Add the drained and dried black beans to a food processor. Pulse until mostly broken down but still slightly chunky. You’re looking for texture here, not a smooth purée.

3. Build the mixture:Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, breadcrumbs, feta (or nutritional yeast), eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup or tomato paste to the food processor. Pulse briefly until combined, being careful not to over-process.

4. Add texture:Transfer the mixture to a bowl if needed. Fold in the sautéed onions and chopped bell peppers last so they remain visible and provide texture rather than blending fully into the batter.

5. Chill the mixture:Cover and refrigerate the burger mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps the patties firm up and makes shaping easier.

6. Preheat and shape:Preheat the oven to 400°F. Divide the chilled mixture evenly and form into patties.

7. Brown the burgers:Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for a few minutes per side until browned and a crust forms.

8. Finish in the oven:Transfer the patties to a lined sheet pan and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until heated through and set.

Notes

These burgers freeze very well. Allow cooked patties to cool completely, then freeze in portions. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For a fully plant-based version, use flax eggs and a vegan Worcestershire sauce (or coconut aminos).