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Flavorful Hot Honey Black Bean Burgers with Cream Cheese Centers

hot honey black bean burgers - featured image

These flavorful hot honey black bean burgers feature a creamy cream cheese center and a sweet-spicy hot honey drizzle, making for a quick, easy, and satisfying meatless meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) finely chopped red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or cilantro (optional)
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes
  • Olive oil or avocado oil for cooking
  • Burger buns or lettuce wraps, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cream Cheese Centers: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with chopped chives or cilantro if using. Mix well until smooth. Shape the cream cheese into 8 small balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Place on a parchment-lined plate and freeze for 15 minutes.
  2. Mash the Black Beans: Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly. Place in a large bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but with some texture remaining.
  3. Add the Flavorings: To the mashed beans, add breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Add the beaten egg and stir until the mixture comes together. Adjust moisture with more breadcrumbs or a splash of water/olive oil if needed.
  4. Form the Patties: Divide the bean mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten one portion into a 3-inch disc. Place one cream cheese ball in the center, top with another flattened portion, and press edges to seal. Repeat for all patties. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.
  5. Cook the Burgers: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
  6. Prepare the Hot Honey Drizzle: Warm honey gently in a small saucepan or microwave for 20 seconds. Stir in hot sauce or chili flakes. Keep warm and pourable.
  7. Serve: Drizzle hot honey over cooked burgers just before serving. Serve on toasted buns or lettuce wraps.

Notes

Chill cream cheese balls and patties before cooking to keep them intact. Use medium heat to avoid burning. Use a wide spatula to flip gently. If patties fall apart, chill longer or add more binder. Baking option: bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: black bean burgers, hot honey, cream cheese center, vegetarian, meatless meal, easy dinner, plant-based, gluten-free option