Mushroom Veggie Burgers

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty burger that everyone will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are a staple in our home. They’re packed with flavor and have a fantastic texture that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun family cookout, these burgers fit perfectly into any occasion. Plus, they’re super easy to make ahead of time!

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped up a batch of these veggie burgers for friends and family gatherings. The best part? They can be baked for an oil-free option or pan-seared for that delightful charred flavor. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to recipe too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up these burgers in less than an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Even the kids will ask for seconds! These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are loved by all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Perfect for busy days!
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to experiment with spices and toppings to match your taste.
• Hearty & Delicious: Each bite is packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Mushroom Veggie Burgers. You’ll find everything here at your local grocery store!

For the Burgers

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 16 ounces cremini 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

This Mushroom Veggie Burger recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your burgers:

• Swap the Beans: Try using chickpeas or lentils instead of pinto or black beans for different flavors.
• Add Extra Veggies: Grate in some carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and moisture.
• Change Up the Grains: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of barley if you’re looking for a different texture.
• Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to give your burgers an extra kick.

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, stirring occasionally. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and most of it evaporates—about 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it intensifies the flavor while giving your burgers that savory taste.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Once your mushroom mixture looks dry, add in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This aromatic blend will elevate your veggie burger’s flavor profile!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the walnut halves until coarsely crumbled. Then add in your sautéed vegetable mix along with cooked barley, beans, nutritional yeast, worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Pulse until everything is well incorporated but still has some visible bits—this adds texture!

Step 4: Form Your Patties

Using about ½ cup of mixture per patty will yield around eight burgers. Form them gently with your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet. If you’d like some extra flavor on top, brush them lightly with vegan worcestershire sauce and sprinkle black pepper over each patty.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your veggie burgers in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through so they cook evenly! When they are firm and golden brown, they’re ready to be devoured.

Step 6: Pan-Seared Option

For those who prefer a little more charred goodness, preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat with high-heat cooking oil. Cook 2-3 patties at a time for about 5 minutes per side until they are beautifully browned on both sides. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

And there you have it—delicious homemade Mushroom Veggie Burgers that are sure to impress! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Creating the perfect mushroom veggie burger is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your burgers turn out delicious every time.

• Use a variety of mushrooms: Mixing different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, adds depth of flavor and a satisfying texture that makes each bite a delight.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: If you have time, refrigerate the formed patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking and enhances their flavors.

• Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to taste the mixture before forming the patties! Adding more spices or herbs can make your burgers uniquely yours and packed with flavor.

• Experiment with toppings: Try adding avocado, spicy aioli, or fresh herbs to elevate your burger experience. The right toppings can take your veggie burger to another level!

• Freeze extras for later: These patties freeze beautifully! Make a double batch, and after cooking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for quick meals on busy nights.

How to Serve Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Serving your mushroom veggie burgers is just as important as making them! Here are some fun ideas to present this delightful dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh arugula: Adds a peppery crunch that complements the earthy flavors of the veggie burger perfectly.

• Sliced tomatoes: Juicy and refreshing, they provide a nice contrast to the hearty patty.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries offer a healthy alternative to traditional fries with a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory burgers.

• Coleslaw: A crisp, tangy slaw adds texture and brightness. You can make it with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the mushroom burgers beautifully while keeping it nutritious.

By following these serving tips and pairing suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that everyone will love. Enjoy your homemade mushroom veggie burgers!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mushroom Veggie Burgers recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy delicious, hearty burgers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked veggie burgers to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To keep them fresh, separate layers with parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the burgers cool fully.
• Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped burgers in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated burgers, simply microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• For frozen burgers, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat using the microwave or bake them at 350° F for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• If you prefer a crispy texture, pan-sear them in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about our Mushroom Veggie Burgers.

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

Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms are recommended, you can also mix in portobello, shiitake, or any other variety you love. Each type will bring its unique flavor and texture to your burgers.

How do I make Mushroom Veggie Burgers gluten-free?

To make these Mushroom Veggie Burgers gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I bake these Mushroom Veggie Burgers instead of pan-searing?

Yes! Baking is a great oil-free alternative. Bake them at 400° F for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they’re golden brown and firm.

What can I serve with my Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

These burgers pair beautifully with fresh salads, sweet potato fries, or even grilled vegetables. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, vegan mayo, or fresh herbs to elevate the flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Mushroom Veggie Burgers as much as I do! They’re not only packed with flavor but also offer a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just looking for a wholesome weeknight dinner, these veggie burgers will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings and sides—make it your own! Happy cooking!