Sweet Potato Black Bean Burger Recipe (Vegan & Gluten Free)

These Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers are the perfect hearty and healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers. Packed with fiber-rich black beans, nutritious sweet potatoes, and a blend of savory spices, these vegan burgers are not only delicious but also satisfying. Whether you’re grilling them for a BBQ or making them on a stovetop, these burgers will quickly become a favorite in your plant-based meal rotation!

Sweet Potato Black Bean Burger Recipe

Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Ingredients:

1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (optional, for binding)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying or grilling)
Burger buns (gluten-free, if needed)
Toppings of choice (e.g., lettuce, tomato, avocado, vegan mayo, pickles)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sweet Potato:

Peel and cube the sweet potato, then steam or boil it until tender (about 10-12 minutes). Once soft, mash it with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Burger Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some whole beans for texture.
Add the mashed sweet potato, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground flaxseed (if using), cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a tablespoon of water.

3. Form the Patties:

Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions, depending on how large you want your burgers. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a patty shape, about 1/2 inch thick.

4. Cook the Burgers:

Stovetop Method: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the patties in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Grilling Method: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grates and cook the patties for about 5 minutes per side, flipping gently to avoid breaking.

5. Assemble the Burger:

Toast the burger buns (optional) and place each patty on a bun. Top with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, pickles, or vegan mayo.

6. Serve:

Serve the burgers with a side of sweet potato fries, a green salad, or your favorite veggies.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers:

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the burger mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for later use—just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before freezing.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices like turmeric, garlic powder, or Italian herbs to customize the flavor profile.
Vegan Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, top your burger with a slice of vegan cheese while cooking the patties to melt.
Grilling Tip: If grilling, make sure the patties are well-formed and not too thick, as they can break easily on the grill.

Why You’ll Love These Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers:

Nutrient-Packed: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, while black beans provide protein and fiber, making this burger both healthy and filling.
Vegan & Gluten-Free: These burgers are perfect for anyone following a plant-based or gluten-free diet.
Versatile: You can easily adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste preferences, making these burgers adaptable for everyone.
Delicious & Satisfying: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these burgers will surely satisfy your cravings for a hearty meal.

These Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers are a perfect choice for anyone looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional burgers. They’re great for meal prep, BBQs, or just a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Enjoy the hearty flavors and satisfying texture in every bite!