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high-protein black bean burger

High-Protein Black Bean Burger

A hearty and flavorful black bean burger packed with protein and wholesome ingredients. Made with black beans, quinoa, and spices, it’s the perfect meat-free burger that’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and full of smoky goodness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Patties:
  • 2 cups cooked black beans or 1 can, rinsed and drained
  • ½ cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs use gluten-free if needed
  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2½ tablespoons water flax egg
  • Optional: pinch of chili flakes for spice
For Serving:
  • 4 whole-grain or brioche burger buns
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Avocado slices or vegan cheese
  • Your favorite sauce mayo, BBQ, or spicy aioli

Method
 

Step 1: Make the Flax Egg
  1. Mix flaxseed and water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 2: Mash the Beans
  1. In a large bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or masher. Leave a few beans whole for texture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
  1. Add cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, spices, and the flax egg. Stir everything until the mixture holds together.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
  1. Divide the mixture into 4–6 even portions. Shape each into a firm patty.
Step 5: Cook the Burgers
  1. Pan Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
  2. Oven Method: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
  1. Toast buns lightly. Layer lettuce, tomato, burger patty, avocado or cheese, and sauce. Serve hot.

Notes

  • You can use canned black beans — just rinse and dry them well before mashing.
  • If the mix feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs. If too dry, a splash of olive oil helps.
  • These patties freeze well! Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
  • Try brushing them with BBQ sauce before cooking for extra flavor.