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Air fryer black bean burger with a crispy black bean patty, melted cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, fresh greens, and a toasted bun, served as a hearty vegetarian meal.
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Air Fryer Black Bean Burger – Crispy, Hearty, and Easy

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Black beans: 1 can 15 ounces, drained and rinsed well
  • Egg: 1 large or a flax egg for vegan: 1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water
  • Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup regular or panko; use gluten-free if needed
  • Rolled oats: 1/4 cup lightly crushed
  • Red onion: 1/4 cup finely minced
  • Bell pepper: 1/4 cup finely diced (any color)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves minced
  • Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon adjust to taste
  • Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tablespoon
  • Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
  • Lime juice: 1 teaspoon or lemon
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Olive oil or avocado oil spray: for the basket and patties
  • Buns: 4 burger buns toasted if you like
  • Toppings: lettuce tomato, red onion slices, pickles, avocado, ketchup, mustard, or chipotle mayo

Instructions

  • Dry the beans: After rinsing, spread the black beans on a clean towel and pat very dry. Excess moisture makes mushy burgers.
  • Mash: Add beans to a large bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher.
  • Leave about one-quarter of the beans partly whole for texture.
  • Mix the binder: In a small cup, whisk the egg (or prepare the flax egg by mixing flax and water; rest 5 minutes). Stir in soy sauce, tomato paste, and lime juice.
  • Add the flavor base: To the beans, add onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the egg mixture and stir until combined.
  • Bring it together: Sprinkle in the breadcrumbs and oats.
  • Mix just until the mixture holds together. If it’s sticky, add 1 to 2 more tablespoons of breadcrumbs.
  • Shape the patties: Form 4 even patties, about 3/4-inch thick. Press the edges to compact them so they don’t crack.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  • Lightly spray the basket to prevent sticking.
  • Cook the first side: Place patties in a single layer without crowding. Lightly mist the tops with oil. Air fry for 7 to 8 minutes.
  • Flip and finish: Carefully flip, mist again, and cook another 6 to 7 minutes until the edges are crisp and the centers feel set.
  • Toast and assemble: Warm the buns in the air fryer for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Stack the patties with your favorite toppings.