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Black Bean Burgers

This quick and easy recipe creates flavorful black bean burgers. Combining mashed black beans with oats, egg, and a blend of savory spices, the mixture is formed into patties and pan-fried until golden. It’s a versatile and satisfying plant-based alternative, perfect for a weeknight meal, ready in just minutes.
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Total Time 10 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 1465.9 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Potato masher or fork For mashing beans
  • 1 Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
  • 1 Large Skillet For pan-frying
  • 1 Spatula For flipping patties

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 15.5-ounce can black beans
  • 2/3 cup quick oats
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 red onion
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 to 4 slices cheese optional

Instructions
 

  • Drain and rinse the can of black beans thoroughly. In a large bowl, mash about two-thirds of the black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving the remaining third mostly whole for texture.
  • Finely dice the 1/2 red onion.
  • To the mashed beans, add the lightly beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, hot sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and kosher salt. Mix well to combine.
  • Stir in the quick oats and the finely diced red onion until evenly distributed. The mixture should be firm enough to form patties; if too wet, add a little more oats.
  • Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently form them into sturdy burger patties, about 3/4-inch thick.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  • Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the burgers are golden brown and have a firm crust.
  • If using cheese, place a slice on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover the skillet briefly to melt.
  • Remove the black bean burgers from the skillet and serve immediately on buns with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Achieving the right texture for black bean burgers is key. Mash about two-thirds of the black beans, leaving the rest mostly whole for a satisfying bite. The quick oats and egg act as essential binders; if your mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon or two more oats until it's pliable. Conversely, if it's too dry, a splash of water or extra mayonnaise can help. Finely dicing the red onion ensures it integrates well and cooks through without being overly crunchy. When cooking, use a medium heat with adequate vegetable oil to develop a beautiful crust without burning. Don't overcrowd the pan. These patties are excellent pan-fried, baked, or even grilled, providing a versatile plant-based option. Ensure they are cooked through and golden brown for the best flavor and stability.