The Ultimate Vegan Smash Burger is a crispy, flavorful plant-based alternative made with black beans and lentils, perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying meat-free option.
If you’ve ever craved a juicy, crispy-edged burger but want to stick to a plant-based diet, you’re in for a treat! This vegan smash burger recipe will completely change your perception of meatless burgers. Forget the bland, mushy veggie patties of the past—this burger is bursting with flavor, packed with texture, and so satisfying that even meat lovers will be impressed.
Why This Vegan Smash Burger Stands Out
Most homemade veggie burgers have a reputation for being too soft, falling apart easily, or lacking that savory, umami punch. But not this one! By combining black beans and lentils with bold spices and strategic ingredients, we achieve the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and tenderness inside. Plus, using a cast iron skillet to smash the patties ensures a beautifully caramelized crust, mimicking the classic smash burger experience.
To top it all off, we’re slathering it with a creamy, tangy burger sauce and layering it with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy pickles for a restaurant-quality experience at home.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients Breakdown
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s go over what you’ll need. This recipe includes everyday pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it both accessible and budget-friendly.
Burger Patties:
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans – Provides a hearty, protein-rich base.
- ½ cup cooked brown lentils – Adds texture and a rich, earthy taste.
- ½ cup oat flour – Helps bind everything together (DIY: Blend rolled oats in a food processor).
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs or panko – Enhances the crispiness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Gives a deep, umami-packed flavor.
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy, nutty undertone.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Brings in natural sweetness and richness.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Essential for extra savory depth.
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder (divided) – A flavor booster for both the patties and sauce.
- 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika (divided) – Gives a smoky, grill-like taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided) – Enhances overall flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper – For a subtle kick.
- Neutral oil (for frying) – Ensures a crispy, golden-brown crust.
The Ultimate Vegan Burger Sauce:
- ¼ cup vegan mayo – Creamy and indulgent.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup – Adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon mustard – Gives a zesty punch.
- 1 teaspoon dill pickle relish – Provides a tangy contrast.
Toppings:
- 4 slices vegan cheese – Because every burger needs melty, gooey goodness.
- 2 burger buns – Lightly toasted for the perfect bite.
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced – Adds crunch and sharpness.
- 1 tomato, sliced – For a juicy, fresh layer.
- 4 lettuce leaves – A crisp, refreshing touch.
- ¼ cup dill pickles – Brings in that essential tang and crunch.
Step-by-Step: Crafting the Perfect Vegan Smash Burger
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together vegan mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir until well combined, then refrigerate to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Mash the Black Beans
Drain and rinse the black beans, then add them to a large bowl. Using a fork or a food processor, mash them until you get a chunky paste.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
To the mashed beans, add lentils, oat flour, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, tomato paste, onion powder, remaining garlic powder, remaining smoked paprika, remaining salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands until well incorporated.
Step 4: Form the Burger Balls
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and roll them into balls. This ensures each burger gets the right texture when smashed.
Step 5: Heat the Skillet
Add a bit of neutral oil to a cast iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 6: Smash and Sear
Place one ball in the hot skillet, then use a flat lid or spatula to firmly smash it down to about ¼-inch thickness. Let it cook for 3 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
Step 7: Flip and Melt the Cheese
Carefully flip the patty, place a slice of vegan cheese on top, and cover the skillet. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt. Repeat with the remaining patties.
Step 8: Prep the Toppings
While the patties are cooking, slice the onions, tomatoes, and pickles, and get your lettuce ready.
Step 9: Assemble the Burger
Lightly toast your buns and generously spread the burger sauce on both sides. Stack on two patties, red onion, tomato slices, lettuce, and pickles for a fully loaded burger.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately while hot, and get ready to experience one of the best vegan burgers you’ve ever had!
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Smash Burger
✅ Crispy and Juicy: Achieves the perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture. ✅ Bold and Flavorful: Packed with umami-rich ingredients that mimic the depth of a traditional beef burger. ✅ Super Satisfying: The combination of hearty black beans and lentils makes this burger filling and protein-rich. ✅ Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps—perfect for beginners. ✅ Customizable: Add avocado, jalapeños, caramelized onions, or extra pickles to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This vegan smash burger proves that plant-based eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to cut down on meat, this burger will satisfy all your cravings.
Try it out, and let us know how you liked it! Would you add any personal twists? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! Please follow our blog, Dines Hub, for more delicious insights! 🍔✨
