Green Goddess Black Bean Burger
The Green Goddess Black Bean Burger is a tasty and vibrant twist on a classic veggie burger. Packed with hearty black beans, fresh herbs, and a creamy green goddess dressing,…
Tip: save now, cook later.The Green Goddess Black Bean Burger is a tasty and vibrant twist on a classic veggie burger. Packed with hearty black beans, fresh herbs, and a creamy green goddess dressing, this burger offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. You’ll notice the bright, herby kick from the dressing blending beautifully with the earthy beans and a little crunch from some fresh veggies.
I love making these burgers when I want something both filling and fresh. The green goddess sauce is my secret weapon—it adds a cool, tangy burst that makes every bite exciting. Plus, these burgers are easy to prep ahead of time and cook up quickly, making them a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.
My favorite way to serve these is on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and maybe a slice of avocado for extra creaminess. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or a satisfying solo meal. Whenever I make these, everyone asks for seconds, and I don’t blame them—these burgers have a way of winning over even the toughest burger fans!
Green Goddess Black Bean Burger Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: These are the star! Using canned black beans saves time. Just rinse and mash gently—you want some texture for a good bite. If you prefer, pinto beans or chickpeas work too but change the flavor slightly.
Rolled Oats: Oats help bind the patties and add texture. If you don’t have oats, use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers instead. For gluten-free, make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Herbs (Cilantro, Parsley, Basil): Fresh herbs make the burger and sauce pop with flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great alternative. For the sauce, basil and parsley give it that fresh Green Goddess vibe.
Egg or Flax Egg: Eggs hold the patties together well. For vegan options, flax eggs (ground flaxseed + water) do the trick. Just remember to let the mixture sit so it binds properly before cooking.
Avocado: It’s creamy and mild in the Green Goddess sauce. If avocados aren’t available, try using mashed cooked peas or a bit of zucchini blended for creaminess.
How Do You Make the Black Bean Patties Hold Together Without Falling Apart?
Binding the patties can be tricky but is key for great texture. Follow these tips for best results:
- Mash black beans until mostly smooth but leave some whole for texture—too much mash makes it mushy, too little, and it won’t hold.
- Use rolled oats or breadcrumbs to soak up moisture and help hold everything together.
- Mix in an egg or flax egg and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes so oats absorb liquid and bind well.
- Shape patties firmly but gently—avoid pressing too hard, which can make them dense.
- Cook on medium heat with a bit of oil to get a golden crust, which helps the structure hold during flipping.
With these steps, your patties should stay intact and have a nice crispy outside with a tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining and mixing the burger ingredients evenly.
- Potato masher or fork – helps mash black beans to the right texture without turning them into paste.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan – ideal for cooking patties evenly with minimal sticking.
- Spatula – makes flipping patties easy without breaking them apart.
- Food processor or blender – great for blending the Green Goddess sauce until smooth.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts to get the best flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the patty mix for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Swap cilantro for fresh mint or dill in the sauce for a different green herbal note.
- Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack into patties for a melty surprise inside.
- Use black bean patties as a base for a breakfast burger by topping with a fried egg and hot sauce.
Green Goddess Black Bean Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Black Bean Burger Patties:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 egg or flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, for vegan option)
For the Green Goddess Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed to thin
For Assembly:
- 4 whole wheat or brioche burger buns
- Slices of fresh tomato
- Slices of ripe avocado
- Mixed salad greens or microgreens
- Melted cheese slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and mix the burger patties and sauce, plus 10 minutes resting time for the patties to bind well. Cooking the patties takes about 10-12 minutes. Overall, plan for around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a flavorful and wholesome meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, gently mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture. Add rolled oats, chopped onion, minced garlic, corn kernels, cilantro or parsley, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the egg or flax egg to help bind the mixture together. Mix everything well, then let it sit for 10 minutes so the oats absorb moisture and the mixture binds nicely.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts. Shape each portion into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick so they cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes per side until they have a nice golden crust and are heated through. If you want to add cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking, cover the pan, and allow it to melt.
4. Make the Green Goddess Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, basil, parsley, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time to reach a creamy, spreadable consistency.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Lightly toast the burger buns. Spread a generous layer of Green Goddess sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a black bean patty on top, then add slices of avocado, tomato, and a handful of greens or microgreens. Spread more sauce on the top half of the bun and place it on top.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your vibrant Green Goddess Black Bean Burgers are ready! Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad, for a delicious, wholesome meal.
Can I Use Canned Black Beans Straight From the Can?
Yes! Just make sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and liquid before mashing. This helps the patties hold together better.
What’s the Best Egg Substitute for a Vegan Burger?
A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) works great as a binder. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding to the mixture.
How Should I Store Leftover Patties?
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I Make the Green Goddess Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep it bright green, press plastic wrap directly onto the sauce’s surface to prevent browning.