Name: Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 medium sweet potato (peeled and cut into chunks (about 3 cups shredded)); 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/2 cup rolled oats (for added texture and binding); 1/4 cup ground flax seed (a great egg substitute that adds fiber); 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder (for flavor); 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin (a warm spice that complements the beans); 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (to season); 2 15-ounce cans black beans (drained and rinsed; divided); 2 pieces chipotle peppers in adobo; 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (for smokiness); 1 tablespoon avocado oil (for cooking); Burger buns (your choice of bread to hold the burgers); Chipotle mayo (a creamy, spicy condiment to enhance the flavor); Red onion, lettuce, avocado, etc (for topping)

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Sweet potato black bean burgers are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, these burgers are not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a delicious option for your next barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious world of sweet potato black bean burgers!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about sweet potatoes and black beans. They complement each other beautifully, offering a balance of sweetness and earthiness. This sweet potato black bean burger recipe is a favorite in my kitchen because it’s simple, nutritious, and utterly delicious. The addition of chipotle peppers gives a smoky kick that elevates the flavor profile, making these burgers stand out. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making them a hit with everyone around the table.

The Essentials

To make these mouthwatering sweet potato black bean burgers, you will need the following ingredients:

1 medium sweet potato: Peeled and cut into chunks (about 3 cups shredded)
1/2 red onion: Finely chopped
1/2 cup rolled oats: For added texture and binding
1/4 cup ground flax seed: A great egg substitute that adds fiber
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder: For flavor
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: A warm spice that complements the beans
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: To season
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans: Drained and rinsed; divided
2 chipotle peppers in adobo: Plus 1 tablespoon adobo sauce for smokiness
1 tablespoon avocado oil: For cooking
Burger buns: Your choice of bread to hold the burgers
Chipotle mayo: A creamy, spicy condiment to enhance the flavor
Red onion, lettuce, avocado, etc: For topping

Prep & Cook Tools

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the following tools:

Large pot: For boiling the sweet potato
Mixing bowl: To combine ingredients
Fork or potato masher: For mashing the sweet potato and beans
Baking sheet: To bake the burgers
Skillet: For pan-frying the burgers for a crispy exterior
Spatula: To flip the burgers

Step-by-Step: Sweet Potato Black Bean Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the peeled and chopped sweet potato and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Mash the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweet potato, half of the black beans, red onion, rolled oats, ground flax seed, garlic powder, ground cumin, and kosher salt. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the mixture until well combined but still a bit chunky.

Step 3: Add the Chipotle

Finely chop the chipotle peppers and add them along with the tablespoon of adobo sauce to the sweet potato mixture. Stir in the remaining black beans, ensuring that they remain mostly whole for added texture.

Step 4: Form the Patties

Using your hands, form the mixture into patties of your desired size. This recipe should make about 6-8 burgers, depending on how large you make them.

Step 5: Cook the Burgers

Heat the avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

Toast your burger buns lightly. Spread some chipotle mayo on the bottom half, add the sweet potato black bean patty, and top with red onion, lettuce, and avocado. Finish with the top bun and enjoy!

Make It Fit Your Plan

These sweet potato black bean burgers are highly customizable. Here are some ideas to make them fit your dietary needs or preferences:

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free buns or enjoy the patties on their own with a side salad.
Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses flax seed as a binder instead of eggs.
Spice it up: Add more chipotle peppers or some jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheese lovers: Top with your favorite cheese for a creamy addition.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

When making sweet potato black bean burgers, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

Ensure the sweet potato is fully cooked and not watery; draining well helps prevent sogginess.
Don’t skip the oats or flax seed, as they play a crucial role in binding the mixture.
Let the patties rest for a few minutes after forming them; this helps them hold together better during cooking.
Adjust the spice level to your taste—start with less chipotle if you’re unsure.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To enjoy your sweet potato black bean burgers over the week, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet to harden, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, bake in the oven or warm in a skillet until heated through.

Reader Q&A

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What can I serve with sweet potato black bean burgers?

These burgers pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Can I use other beans instead of black beans?

Yes! You can substitute pinto beans or kidney beans if you prefer. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well.

Are these burgers filling?

Yes! The combination of sweet potatoes and black beans makes for a hearty and satisfying meal that will keep you full.

Bring It to the Table

Sweet potato black bean burgers are not just a meal; they are an experience. Gather your friends and family, set the table, and enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors these burgers bring. With the smoky chipotle mayo, crisp lettuce, and creamy avocado, every bite is a celebration of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just enjoying a cozy night in, these burgers will surely be the star of your dinner table.

Sweet potato black bean burgers are a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based eating without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and whip up a batch of these delicious burgers. You won’t regret it!