Quick Black Bean Burgers

Name: Quick Black Bean Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 burgers
Ingredients: 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for cooking; Burger buns and toppings of choice

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Recipes

I love making Quick Black Bean Burgers when I want a meal that's both satisfying and quick to prepare. These burgers are packed with flavor and a great way to enjoy plant-based protein. With just a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes of my time, I can whip up a delicious meal that's perfect for any weeknight dinner. Plus, they're easy to customize with my favorite toppings, making them a hit with friends and family alike!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:54:28.289Z

I remember the first time I made these Quick Black Bean Burgers; it was a spur-of-the-moment decision after a long day. I opened my pantry and found a can of black beans waiting for me. I combined them with spices, some oats, and an onion, and within no time, I had delicious patties frying on my stovetop. It was a game-changer!

What I particularly love about these burgers is their adaptability. You can add in additional spices or even some grated vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor. The texture from the black beans and oats creates a satisfying bite, and I often serve them with a zesty avocado lime dressing that brings everything together beautifully.

Why You'll Love These Burgers
Incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for busy evenings.
Healthy, hearty, and packed with protein, these burgers will keep you full.
Customizable toppings allow for endless flavor combinations.

The Importance of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this black bean burger plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The black beans serve as the base, providing a creamy texture and a hearty taste. Rolled oats not only act as a binder but also add a slight chewiness, helping the patties hold together while cooking. The onions and garlic impart aromatic flavors that elevate the entire dish, so using fresh, finely chopped varieties is key to enhancing taste.

Spices are another essential element in this recipe. Cumin offers warmth and earthy notes, while smoked paprika brings a subtle smokiness that complements the beans beautifully. Adjusting the spice levels to your liking can transform these burgers — consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for added heat or experimenting with fresh herbs for a unique twist.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Patties

When it comes to forming the patties, the texture is vital. If you mash the black beans too much, you might end up with a mushy burger. Aim for a mix of smooth and chunky for the best texture. When shaping the patties, use slightly wet hands to prevent sticking and ensure they hold their shape during cooking. It's also beneficial to let the formed patties chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before cooking, which helps them firm up and reduces the chances of breaking apart in the skillet.

Cooking the burgers correctly is equally important for flavor and texture. Preheating the skillet adequately will create a nice sear on the patties, giving them a golden-brown crust. Keep an eye on the heat level; medium-high is ideal, but you might need to adjust it to avoid charring while ensuring they cook through. If you're not sure, a good indicator is to look for a slight bubbling around the edges — that's when they’re ready to flip.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Quick Black Bean Burgers:

Ingredients

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
Burger buns and toppings of choice

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Quick Black Bean Burgers:

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, mash the black beans with a fork until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture. Add the rolled oats, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is well incorporated.

Form the Patties

Using your hands, shape the mixture into four equal-sized patties, pressing them firmly to hold their shape.

Cook the Burgers

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.

Serve your Quick Black Bean Burgers on buns with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in grated cheese or chopped jalapeños into the burger mixture. They also freeze well—just cook and cool the patties, then wrap them tightly for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

These Quick Black Bean Burgers are versatile when it comes to toppings. My personal favorites include avocado slices, fresh salsa, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. For an extra crunch, consider adding coleslaw or pickles. Experiment with different sauces too; a garlic aioli or spicy mayo can really enhance the overall flavor profile of the burger.

If you're hosting a gathering, these burgers can be easily adapted for a crowd. Simply double or triple the ingredients — the mixture holds up well in larger batches. Cook the patties in batches using two skillets to save time, and ensure you keep the cooked ones warm in the oven while the rest finish. This way, you can serve everyone fresh burgers without a long wait.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These black bean burgers are excellent for meal prep! After cooking, let them cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze uncooked patties: place parchment paper between each patty and keep them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to 3 months and can be cooked straight from frozen — just add an additional 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.

When reheating cooked patties, I recommend using the oven over the microwave for better texture. Simply preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the burgers for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crisped back up. This technique helps retain the burger's texture, ensuring they're just as satisfying on day two.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried black beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand.

→ How can I make these burgers spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.

→ Are these burgers gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free oats, these burgers can be made gluten-free.

→ Can I grill these burgers?

While they are best pan-fried, you can grill them carefully using a grill pan to keep them from falling apart.