Mushroom Veggie Burgers

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are not only packed with flavor but also bring a delightful mix of textures that make them irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a family gathering, these hearty burgers are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to prepare in advance, making them perfect for those outdoor cookouts.

What makes this recipe special is how versatile it is. You can bake them for an oil-free option or pan-sear them for that deliciously charred finish. Trust me; once you try these Mushroom Veggie Burgers, they will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Every bite is bursting with savory goodness from mushrooms, garlic, and herbs.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for all cooking levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these veggie burgers—great for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep these burgers in advance and simply grill or reheat when ready to enjoy.
• Healthy and wholesome: Full of nutrients from beans, barley, and walnuts to keep you feeling great.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create these delightful Mushroom Veggie Burgers.

For the Burgers

• 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 the recipe can be! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use lentils instead of beans for a different texture and flavor.
• Add some spice: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick!
• Go green: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or kale into the mixture for extra nutrition.
• Change the grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice for barley if that’s what you have on hand.

How to Make Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by preheating a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add your chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms release their liquid and it evaporates—this should take about 15 minutes. Next, mix in your minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cooking them together enhances their flavors and ensures your veggie burger base is full of deliciousness!

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven

While your veggies are cooking away, preheat your oven to 400° F. This temperature will help achieve that perfectly golden-brown finish on your burgers. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—it makes cleanup so much easier!

Step 3: Blend Your Mixture

In a food processor, pulse your walnut halves until they are coarsely crumbled. Don’t overdo it; we want some texture! Now add in that delectable sautéed mushroom mixture along with cooked barley, beans, nutritional yeast, vegan worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Process everything until just combined—it’s okay if some pieces remain visible; they add character!

Step 4: Form the Patties

Now comes the fun part—forming your patties! Using about ½ cup of the mixture per burger will yield around eight patties. If you like extra flavor on top, brush each patty with vegan worcestershire sauce and sprinkle some black pepper.

Step 5: Bake or Pan-Sear

For baked burgers: Place those beauties on your prepared baking sheet and bake them for about 30-35 minutes. Flip them halfway through so they cook evenly. They should be firm to the touch and beautifully golden when done!

For pan-seared burgers: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat with two tablespoons of high-heat cooking oil. Carefully add in two to three patties at a time without crowding the pan. Cook each side for about five minutes until they develop that lovely charred crust.

And there you have it—your homemade Mushroom Veggie Burgers are ready! Serve them up with your favorite toppings and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Making delicious mushroom veggie burgers can be a breeze with a few helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture!

• Use fresh mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms not only provide better flavor but also retain moisture, ensuring your burgers are juicy and satisfying.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allow the patties to rest for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up, making flipping easier and preventing them from falling apart.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor. A pinch of cumin or a dash of chili powder can add an exciting twist!

• Grill or bake for variety: Try grilling these burgers for a smoky flavor or baking for a healthier option. Both methods yield delicious results!

• Make a double batch: These burgers freeze beautifully! Prepare extra patties and store them in the freezer for quick meals on busy days.

How to Serve Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Serving mushroom veggie burgers is all about creativity and personal touch. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and complements the earthy flavors of the burger perfectly.
• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil can brighten the dish and add freshness.
• Vegan mayo: A dollop of vegan mayo or aioli can enhance creaminess and tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a perfect complement, providing a slightly sweet contrast to the savory burger.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds refreshing texture and balances out the meal.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring color and nutrition to your plate.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with the hearty burger.

These serving suggestions will not only make your meal visually appealing but also create an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy your homemade mushroom veggie burgers!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade burgers throughout the week. They’re easy to store and reheat, making them a practical choice for busy days!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Form the patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze the patties in a single layer until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling with the date. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated burgers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side or until warmed through.
• From frozen, cook in a skillet or bake at 400° F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• You can also grill them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to ensure they’re heated all the way through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Mushroom Veggie Burgers that you might find helpful!

Can I make Mushroom Veggie Burgers gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the pearled barley with cooked quinoa or brown rice and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

What makes these Mushroom Veggie Burgers so special?

The combination of mushrooms, beans, and walnuts creates an incredibly satisfying texture and flavor that rivals traditional meat burgers while being completely plant-based!

How long can I store Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

You can refrigerate cooked Mushroom Veggie Burgers for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I grill Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Yes! These veggie burgers are great on the grill. Just make sure they’re well-chilled before grilling for best results!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Mushroom Veggie Burgers as I am! They offer a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that will delight both veggie lovers and meat-eaters alike. Enjoy crafting this recipe in your kitchen, and feel free to get creative with toppings and sides. Happy cooking!