Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Meet our favorite homemade Mushroom Veggie Burgers! These burgers are packed with delightful flavors and textures from mushrooms, beans, barley, and walnuts. They are perfect for any occasion, be it a casual dinner or a summer cookout. You can bake them for an oil-free option or pan-sear them for that delicious charred flavor. Plus, they’re a fantastic vegan alternative that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of mushrooms and spices offers a rich taste that even meat lovers will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to make.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Bake or pan-sear these patties to suit your preference, making them adaptable for all occasions.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and simply reheat on the grill for easy meals throughout the week.
• Dietary Options Available: Check the notes for nut-free and gluten-free variations to accommodate all dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large sauté pan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cast-iron skillet (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Ideal for easily mixing ingredients to achieve the right consistency in your veggie burgers.
• Large sauté pan: Perfect for cooking down the onions and mushrooms evenly without burning.
• Baking sheet: Ensures your veggie burgers bake uniformly while keeping your oven clean with parchment paper.

Ingredients

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
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For Texture

• 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)

For Flavoring

• 1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 2 Tablespoons vegan Worcestershire sauce (see Notes)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• black pepper

How to Make Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400° F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat.
2. Cook the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms until their liquid is released and mostly evaporated, about 15 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until dry.

Step 3: Prepare the Mixture

1. In a food processor, pulse the walnut halves until coarsely crumbled.
2. Add the sautéed vegetable mixture, cooked barley, beans, nutritional yeast, Worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Process until mixed but still has visible pieces of beans and mushrooms.

Step 4: Form the Patties

Using about ½ cup of mixture per patty will yield around 8 burgers. If desired, brush with Worcestershire sauce and sprinkle with black pepper.

Step 5: Bake or Pan-Sear

For baking:
1. Place patties on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.

For pan-searing:
1. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium heat with high-heat cooking oil.
2. Cook 2 to 3 burgers at a time for about 5 minutes per side or until nicely charred.
3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate when done.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Mushroom Veggie Burgers!

How to Serve Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Mushroom veggie burgers are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you prefer a classic approach or want to get creative, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Classic Bun and Toppings

• Lettuce Wrap: For a low-carb option, wrap the burger in crisp lettuce leaves instead of a bun.
• Toasted Burger Bun: Serve the patties on a toasted whole grain or gluten-free bun for added texture.
• Classic Toppings: Add traditional toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles for a classic flavor profile.

Gourmet Style

• Avocado Spread: Spread creamy avocado on the bun for extra richness and healthy fats.
• Sautéed Mushrooms: Top with additional sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost.
• Vegan Cheese: Melt dairy-free cheese on top for a deliciously gooey experience.

Unique Twists

• Spicy Sauce: Drizzle with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for an exciting kick.
• Coleslaw: Add a scoop of crunchy coleslaw on top for freshness and texture.
• Chutney or Relish: Spread mango chutney or relish on the bun for a sweet and tangy contrast.

How to Perfect Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Getting your mushroom veggie burgers just right takes some practice. Here are tips to help you achieve the best results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of your burgers.
• Don’t Overprocess: Pulse the mixture just enough to combine ingredients while keeping some texture; it adds to the burger’s character.
• Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate formed patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking; this helps them hold their shape better.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices and herbs according to your taste preferences; creativity can lead to unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Pairing side dishes with mushroom veggie burgers can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement these flavorful patties.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they add a hint of sweetness to balance the savory burger.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a light side.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky grilled corn is perfect for summer cookouts, adding sweetness and crunch.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette offers freshness alongside your hearty burger.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and depth to your plate, enhancing visual appeal.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a classic comfort food side that pairs well with any burger.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mushroom Veggie Burgers, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to cook the mushrooms and onions properly can result in a watery burger. Always sauté until the liquid evaporates for better texture.
• Overprocessing the mixture: Blending too much can lead to a mushy consistency. Aim for a chunky blend with visible ingredients for the best bite.
• Not measuring ingredients: Guessing amounts can affect flavor balance. Always use precise measurements to ensure your burgers turn out consistently delicious.
• Ignoring chilling time: Skipping refrigeration before cooking may cause patties to fall apart. Chill them for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Old panko can ruin the texture of your burgers. Make sure your breadcrumbs are fresh for optimal crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep cooked Mushroom Veggie Burgers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mushroom Veggie Burgers

• Place uncooked patties between parchment paper in a freezer-friendly bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Mushroom Veggie Burgers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Sear on medium heat in a lightly oiled skillet for 5-7 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I serve with Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Mushroom Veggie Burgers pair well with fresh salads, sweet potato fries, or homemade coleslaw. You can also top them with avocado or vegan cheese for extra flavor.

Can I customize Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different spices, herbs, or even other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to make these burgers your own.

Are Mushroom Veggie Burgers gluten-free?

You can make gluten-free Mushroom Veggie Burgers by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that all ingredients are gluten-free certified.

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

They should be firm and golden brown on the outside. If you’re baking them, flipping halfway through helps achieve even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Mushroom Veggie Burgers offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. They are versatile and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving them at a cookout or enjoying them at home, these burgers promise satisfaction in every bite. Try adding your favorite toppings or side dishes for an unforgettable meal!