Chipotle Black Bean and Quinoa Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries
These hearty plant-based burgers combine black beans, quinoa, and smoky chipotle peppers for a satisfying meal with bold Southwestern flavors. The patties get their structure from eggs and panko breadcrumbs, while quinoa adds protein and texture. Paired with crispy smoked paprika sweet potato fries and fresh guacamole, this is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining when you want something healthier than traditional beef burgers but just as filling.
Ingredients
- 1 clove shallots, chopped
- 1 Tbsp cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 avocado
- 2 tsp lime juice
- 1 lb sweet potato fries, frozen
- 2 tsp cooking oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- ketchup(optional)
- ⅓ cup quinoa, uncooked
- ⅝ cup stock, any typewater1:1vegetarian
reduces flavor slightly
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 1 chipotle pepper, choppedjalapeño + smoked paprika1 jalapeño + 1/2 tsp paprikamild heat
less smoky flavor
- 2 Tbsp cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven according to fries package instructions or to 425F if using fresh sweet potatoes
- 2
Spread sweet potato fries on sheet pan and toss with oil and smoked paprika
- 3
Cook quinoa in stock until tender and fluffy
- 4
Sauté diced onion until softened
- 5
Mash black beans with chipotle pepper, cilantro, tomato paste, salt, and pepper
- 6
Mix cooked quinoa, sautéed onion, mashed bean mixture, egg, and panko breadcrumbs
- 7
Form mixture into 4 burger patties
- 8
Heat grill to 450F and clean grates with oil
- 9
Bake sweet potato fries according to package directions
- 10
Grill burger patties for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through
- 11
Toast hamburger buns
- 12
Make guacamole with avocado, shallot, cilantro, and lime juice
- 13
Serve burgers topped with guacamole alongside sweet potato fries
Tips
Make sure black beans are well-drained and patted dry to prevent soggy burgers
Chill formed patties for 30 minutes before grilling to help them hold together
Use a grill pan indoors if outdoor grilling isn't available
Good to Know
Store cooked patties in refrigerator for up to 3 days
Form patties up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate
Serve immediately while burgers and fries are hot
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining beans thoroughly to avoid mushy patties
Handle patties gently when flipping to prevent breaking
Substitutions
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
less smoky flavor
FAQ
Can I make these burgers vegan?
Yes, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and ensure your buns are vegan.
How long do leftover patties keep?
Cooked patties will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze the burger patties?
Yes, freeze uncooked formed patties for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before cooking and add a few extra minutes to cooking time.