Mushroom Veggie Burgers

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love, these Mushroom Veggie Burgers are just what you need! Not only are they packed with hearty ingredients like mushrooms, beans, and walnuts, but they also have a delightful texture that makes them feel like a real treat. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a fun cookout with friends, these veggie burgers are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re super easy to make ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones!

What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can bake the patties for a healthier option or pan-sear them for that irresistible charred flavor. No matter how you prepare them, these Mushroom Veggie Burgers will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these veggie burgers in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds when they taste these flavorful patties!
• Make-ahead convenience: These burgers are perfect for meal prep—make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Delicious flavors: The combination of mushrooms, beans, and spices creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
• Great for gatherings: Impress your friends at BBQs or potlucks with these tasty plant-based burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Mushroom Veggie Burgers use simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s gather everything we need:

For the Base

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 16 ounces cremini (baby bella) mushrooms, sliced (or a blend of portobello, shiitake or cremini)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning & Flavor

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ cup raw walnut halves
• 1 ¼ cups cooked pearled barley (see Notes for subs)
• 1 cup cooked pinto or black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 2 Tablespoons vegan worcestershire sauce (see Notes)

For Binding

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• Black pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chickpeas instead of pinto or black beans for a different texture and flavor.
• Add some heat: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like your burgers spicy.
• Change the grains: Substitute quinoa or farro for pearled barley to switch up the base.
• Veggie boost: Add grated carrots or zucchini into the mixture for extra nutrition and moisture.

How to Make Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook while stirring occasionally until most of the liquid from the mushrooms has evaporated—this takes about 15 minutes. Adding garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika at this stage lets those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare for Baking

While your veggies are cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures easy cleanup later!

Step 3: Process the Mixture

In your food processor, pulse the walnut halves until they are coarsely crumbled. Then add the sautéed mushroom mixture along with cooked barley, beans, nutritional yeast, vegan worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Process until everything is well combined but still has some visible chunks—that’s where the texture comes from!

Step 4: Form Patties

Now it’s time to shape our burgers! Using about half a cup of the mixture per patty will yield around eight delicious burgers. If you want an extra flavor boost, brush them lightly with vegan worcestershire sauce and sprinkle on some black pepper before cooking.

Step 5: Bake Your Burgers

Place your formed veggie patties on the prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes—flipping them halfway through ensures they cook evenly. When done, they should be firm and golden brown.

Step 6: Pan-Seared Option (Optional)

If you prefer some crispy edges on your burgers instead of baking them all the way through, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat with two tablespoons of high-heat cooking oil. Cook two to three patties at a time for about five minutes on each side until nicely charred. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate when done.

Now you’re ready to savor these mouthwatering Mushroom Veggie Burgers! Serve them up with your favorite toppings and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Making the perfect mushroom veggie burger is a delightful adventure! Here are some simple tips to help you create burgers that are full of flavor and texture.

• Choose a variety of mushrooms: Mixing different types of mushrooms can enhance the depth of flavor in your patties. Consider using a combination of cremini, shiitake, and portobello for an earthy taste.
• Don’t skip the resting time: After forming your patties, let them rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle while cooking.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add spices or herbs that you love! Experiment with ingredients like cumin, chili powder, or fresh herbs to create a burger that’s uniquely yours.
• Use high-quality breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs for a light and crispy texture. They absorb less moisture than regular breadcrumbs, allowing your burgers to stay firm without becoming mushy.
• Pre-cook for meal prep: These veggie burgers freeze beautifully! Cook a batch and freeze them individually. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them on the grill or in the oven for a quick meal.

How to Serve Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Serving your mushroom veggie burgers in style can make all the difference! Here are some fun and delicious ideas for presenting this wholesome dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Top your burger with fresh basil or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of the burger.
• Vegan mayo or aioli: A dollop of vegan mayo can elevate your burger with creaminess and additional flavor.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory flavors of your burger.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the veggie burgers.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled alongside your burgers provide vibrant color and nutrition.
• Quinoa salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with colorful veggies and a zesty dressing makes for a filling side that pairs wonderfully with mushroom veggie burgers.

Enjoy creating these delightful meals that are as satisfying as they are nourishing!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade goodness throughout the week! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or planning a family feast, these burgers store beautifully and make effortless meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooked veggie burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side.
• If frozen, allow the patties to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for even cooking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these Mushroom Veggie Burgers!

Can I use different types of mushrooms for Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Absolutely! You can mix and match various mushrooms like portobello, shiitake, or cremini to create unique flavors. Each type brings its own distinct taste and texture!

How can I make these Mushroom Veggie Burgers gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Mushroom Veggie Burgers, simply substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free oats. Additionally, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Can I cook Mushroom Veggie Burgers on the grill?

Yes! Pre-cook the patties as directed, then grill them on medium heat for a smoky flavor. Just be sure to brush them lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

What toppings go well with Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

These veggie burgers are versatile! Top them with avocado, fresh greens, tomatoes, vegan mayo, or your favorite sauces. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Mushroom Veggie Burgers as I am! They’re not just packed with flavor; they also bring comfort and satisfaction in each bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout with friends and family, these burgers are sure to impress. Enjoy making them and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking!