Pioneer Woman Black Bean Burger Recipe

The Pioneer Woman’s black bean burgers are so good, I don’t even miss the meat!

The key to keeping them from falling apart is mashing about half the beans while leaving some whole for texture.

A mix of spices, breadcrumbs, and an egg helps hold everything together while adding tons of flavor.

I always let the patties rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking so they firm up.

Pan-frying them gives a crispy crust that makes every bite even better.

Stack them on a toasted bun with avocado, spicy mayo, and some crunchy lettuce, and they’re completely next-level!

How to Make Pioneer Woman’s Black Bean Burger

Ingredients

• 2 cans Black Beans (15 oz. each)
• 1 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs
• 1 Small Zucchini (grated)
• 1 Medium Carrot (grated)
• 1/4 cup Grated Onion
• 1 Whole Egg
• 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Hot Sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Rinse and drain the black beans.

Place them in a large bowl and use a fork to mash them lightly until they form a chunky consistency.

Step 2:

Add the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated zucchini, carrot, onion, whole egg, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined.

Step 3:

Shape the mixture into patties that hold together well.

You should get about four to six patties, depending on your preferred size.

Step 4:

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.

Once the oil is shimmering, place the patties in the skillet and cook them for about four to five minutes on each side until they’re browned.

Step 5:

If desired, add a slice of Swiss cheese to each burger after flipping.

Invert a second skillet over them for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

 

Drain Thoroughly

Make sure to drain the black beans thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent the patties from holding together.

Binding Perfection

If the mixture seems too wet, adding a little more breadcrumbs can help bind your patties perfectly.

Zucchini Prep

Squeeze out extra moisture from the grated zucchini to enhance the mixture’s texture and make the patties hold better.

Customize Flavor

Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs, like cumin or cilantro, to customize the flavor to your liking.

Resting Time

Letting the patties rest in the fridge for ten minutes helps them firm up and makes them easier to cook.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Black Bean Burgers

Brioche Buns

When it comes to serving these burgers, the choice of bun can really make a difference!

Soft, buttery brioche buns enhance the flavor profile of the rich, hearty black bean patties perfectly.

They offer a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the savory taste of the burgers.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are always a classic choice!

With their crispy texture and natural sweetness, sweet potato fries pair wonderfully with the earthy flavors of black bean burgers.

You can even sprinkle a pinch of chili powder or cinnamon for an extra burst of flavor.

Cilantro Coleslaw

A refreshing cilantro coleslaw can be a tasty side dish to consider adding next to black bean burgers.

The crisp cabbage and tangy dressing create a nice balance to the rich burger patties.

Be sure to garnish generously with fresh cilantro leaves for a vibrant look and taste.

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

If you want to try something exciting, grilled pineapple salsa is a great option!

The caramelized pineapple gets an irresistible smoky-sweet flavor when grilled.

Combined with some jalapeños, red onions, and lime juice, this salsa adds a bright and fruity contrast to your black bean burgers.

Avocado Fries

For something out of the ordinary, avocado fries are worth a shot!

Their creamy interior and crispy coating make them an unexpected, yet delicious side dish.

They are not only tasty but also bring a fun element to your meal that both avocado lovers and skeptics might enjoy.

Variations and Substitutions

Beans and Spices

You don’t have to stick to black beans if you want to switch things up.

Try using pinto beans or a mix of beans to create a different texture.

Experiment with adding cumin or smoked paprika to bring out more depth in flavor!

Bindings and Fillers

Breadcrumbs are just one option for binding the burgers.

You can crush up some cornflakes or even oats as a substitute.

Adding ingredients like grated zucchini or carrots can offer a vegetable boost and a hint of sweetness.

Cheese Choices

Swiss cheese is a classic choice, but you can easily swap it for cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Don’t hesitate to try some vegan cheese options if you’re avoiding dairy.

Hot Sauce Varieties

Try reaching for different hot sauces to change up the flavor profile.

If you like a bit of heat, go for Sriracha, or add a hint of smokiness with chipotle hot sauce.

These small tweaks can change the whole dish!

How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Black Bean Burgers

You might have some extra black bean burgers, and storing them correctly is key!

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

It’s convenient to have them ready whenever you’re craving a quick meal.

Freezing Techniques

Wrapping each burger individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil helps preserve their texture.

Then, place the wrapped burgers in a zip-top bag for added protection.

Remember to label them with the date, so you know how long they’ve been in the freezer.

Freezing Duration

Did you know you can store black bean burgers in the freezer for up to three months?

It’s a lifesaver for meal prep enthusiasts wanting to stock up on these tasty goodies.

When you’re ready to use them, just take out what you need!

Thawing Suggestions

Thaw the frozen burgers overnight in the refrigerator to keep them at their best.

Having them thawed and ready means you can enjoy them with minimal fuss when hunger strikes.

Make sure they’re completely defrosted before you start cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Draining the Beans Properly

You’ve got to drain those beans thoroughly, or you’ll end up with a mushy mess!

Rinsing them under cold water can help remove excess liquid, too.

Patting the beans dry with a paper towel is your friend here.

Over-Mashing the Beans

It’s tempting to mash the beans into oblivion, but don’t do it!

You want some texture left for that perfect bite.

Try using a fork and mash until most beans are broken but some chunks remain.

Using Too Many Wet Ingredients

You might think more moisture means juicier burgers, but it’s a trap!

Too much liquid can turn your patties into an unmanageable mixture.

Stick to the recipe and adjust only if your mixture feels too wet.