Mushroom Veggie Burgers

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will love, these Mushroom Veggie Burgers are the perfect choice! Packed with flavors from fresh mushrooms, savory beans, and crunchy walnuts, they deliver a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re gearing up for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a fun family cookout, these burgers are sure to impress. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can bake them for an oil-free option or pan-sear for that irresistible charred crust. Plus, they’re great for meal prep — just make a batch ahead of time and reheat on the grill when you’re ready to feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have these burgers ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are packed with flavors that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Cook them in advance and reheat at your next gathering for effortless entertaining.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Bake or pan-sear; both methods yield delicious results!
• Nutritious & Satisfying: A perfect blend of protein and fiber keeps you feeling full and satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these wholesome ingredients is half the fun! They create the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Mushroom Veggie Burgers. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 16 ounces cremini (baby bella) mushrooms, sliced (or a blend of portobello, shiitake or cremini)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 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)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about these Mushroom Veggie Burgers is how flexible they are! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the beans: Use chickpeas or lentils instead of pinto or black beans for a different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
• Change the grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice for the pearled barley if you prefer.
• Spice it up: Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a little heat!

How to Make Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add your chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms release their liquid and it mostly evaporates, which takes about 15 minutes. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of the onions while concentrating the flavor of the mushrooms. Once they look dry, toss in minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook it all together for another couple of minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven

While your veggies are cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your burgers bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 3: Blend It All Together

Now comes the fun part! In your food processor, pulse the raw walnut halves until they’re coarsely crumbled — we want texture here! Then add in that delicious sautéed mushroom mixture along with cooked barley, beans, nutritional yeast, vegan Worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Pulse everything until well combined but still chunky; a little texture is delightful!

Step 4: Form Your Patties

Using about half a cup of burger mixture per patty will yield around eight burgers. Shape them gently into patties — don’t worry if they aren’t perfect! If you like an extra punch of flavor, brush each patty with vegan Worcestershire sauce and sprinkle with black pepper.

Step 5: Bake or Pan-Sear

For baking: Place those lovely patties on your prepared baking sheet and bake them for about 30 to 35 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through so they get nice and golden on both sides.

For pan-searing: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat with two tablespoons of high-heat cooking oil. Place two to three patties in the skillet (don’t overcrowd!), cooking each side for about five minutes until beautifully charred.

And there you have it! Enjoy these Mushroom Veggie Burgers piled high with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Creating the perfect mushroom veggie burger is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you make them shine!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs can elevate the flavor of your burgers significantly. They add a vibrant taste that dried or stale ingredients simply can’t match.

• Don’t skip chilling the patties: After forming your patties, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking and enhances their texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences! Adding a pinch of cayenne or some chili powder can give your veggie burgers an extra kick, making them even more delicious.

• Make-ahead option: Prepare a double batch of these burgers and freeze half for later. Simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking; this way, you’ll always have a quick meal on hand.

• Cook evenly: Whether you’re baking or pan-searing, make sure to flip your patties halfway through cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that delightful golden-brown crust.

How to Serve Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Serving your mushroom veggie burgers in style is just as important as making them! Here are some fun ideas to ensure they look as good as they taste.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Top your burger with fresh cilantro or parsley for a bright pop of flavor.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado not only adds richness but also pairs beautifully with the textures of the burger.
• Pickled onions: A few slices of tangy pickled onions can cut through the richness and add a delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of your burger. Bake or air-fry for a healthier option!
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in a light vinaigrette brings crunch and brightness that complements the burger perfectly.
• Quinoa salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette makes for a hearty side that balances out your meal.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition while being easy to prepare alongside your burgers on the grill.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these scrumptious mushroom veggie burgers! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, homemade burgers all week long. You can cook a batch and store them for quick meals, or even freeze them for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked veggie burgers to cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheat in the oven or skillet for the best texture.

Freezing

• Place cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For oven reheating, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• If using a skillet, heat over medium-low and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Mushroom Veggie Burgers!

Can I make Mushroom Veggie Burgers without nuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Just make sure to adjust the texture slightly by adding more barley or breadcrumbs.

How do I know when my Mushroom Veggie Burgers are done?

Your Mushroom Veggie Burgers should be firm and golden brown on the outside. If baking, flip them halfway through cooking. If pan-searing, look for a nice char on both sides.

What toppings go well with Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

You can top your burgers with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, avocado, or your favorite vegan mayo. Feel free to get creative with sauces and condiments!

Can I grill these Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Yes! These burgers are perfect for grilling. Just ensure they’re well-formed and chilled before putting them on the grill to prevent breaking apart.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these wonderful Mushroom Veggie Burgers as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and flavors that will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re serving them at a cookout or just enjoying a quiet night in, these burgers are sure to impress! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!