Green Goddess Black Bean Burger

The Green Goddess Black Bean Burger is a fresh and tasty twist on a classic favorite. These burgers are packed with black beans, giving them a hearty and satisfying texture,…

By Willow • February 21, 2026 • Reading time: 7 min

Save Recipe Print Recipe

Tip: save now, cook later.

The Green Goddess Black Bean Burger is a fresh and tasty twist on a classic favorite. These burgers are packed with black beans, giving them a hearty and satisfying texture, while the green goddess dressing adds a cool, creamy herby flavor that really makes them stand out. You get a great mix of protein and greens in every bite, and they’re perfect for anyone looking for something a little different yet super comforting.

I love making these burgers when I want an easy meal that feels special without a lot of fuss. The green goddess sauce is my secret weapon—it brightens up the black bean burger and keeps it from feeling too heavy. Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak in some extra herbs and greens. I usually make a big batch and keep some patties in the fridge to have on hand for quick lunches or dinners.

My favorite way to enjoy these burgers is on a toasted bun with lots of fresh lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and maybe a slice of cheese if I’m feeling extra cheesy. They also go well with sweet potato fries or a simple side salad. It’s one of those meals that feels like a little celebration of healthy flavors while still being super comforting and filling. Perfect for when you want something wholesome but delicious!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Black Beans: They’re the main part of the patties and give protein and texture. Use canned black beans for convenience, but cook and mash dried beans if you want to skip canned.

Sweet Potato: This adds moisture and a touch of sweetness to help bind the patties. You can swap with cooked butternut squash or pumpkin if you prefer.

Bread Crumbs: They help hold the patties together. Use gluten-free crumbs or crushed oats if you want a grain-free option.

Fresh Herbs: Cilantro in the patties and parsley, chives, and tarragon in the sauce add bright herbal notes. If tarragon is hard to find, fresh basil works well too.

Avocado: Used in the sauce and as a topping, avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. It’s a great vegan mayo booster or a spread replacement for better flavor and texture.

How Do You Make the Black Bean Patties Hold Together Without Falling Apart?

Keeping black bean patties together can be tricky because of their soft texture. Here’s what helps:

• Mash gently: Leave some bean chunks for texture, but mash most to help bind.
• Use a binder: Sweet potato and bread crumbs absorb moisture and hold the mixture.
• Adjust moisture: If mix feels too wet, add more bread crumbs little by little.
• Form patties firmly: Press them tight but don’t overwork. This keeps shape and texture balanced.
• Cook on medium heat: Gives the patties time to form a crust without breaking.

Chilling patties for 20-30 minutes before cooking can also help them firm up and hold together better.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl – perfect for mashing beans and mixing all the patty ingredients together.
• Fork or potato masher – helps mash black beans to the right texture without turning them into a paste.
• Non-stick skillet – cooks the patties evenly without sticking, making flipping easy.
• Spatula – useful for turning the patties gently to keep them intact.
• Blender or food processor – blends the Green Goddess sauce smooth and creamy.
• Cutting board and knife – for chopping onions, herbs, and slicing toppings.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your spices and ingredients balanced.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add finely chopped mushrooms to the patty mix for extra moisture and a mild, earthy taste.
• Swap black beans for cooked chickpeas or lentils for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Mix in shredded vegan cheddar or mozzarella to the patties for a melty, cheesy surprise.
• Stir in some diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick if you like heat.

Green Goddess Black Bean Burger

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Black Bean Burger Patties:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Green Goddess Sauce:

• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise or regular mayonnaise
• 1/2 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp fresh chives
• 2 tbsp fresh tarragon (or substitute with fresh basil)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 4 brioche buns or your favorite burger buns
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• Alfalfa or other sprouts
• Lettuce leaves (red leaf or green leaf)
• Tomato slices
• Guacamole or mashed avocado spread (about 1/2 cup)
• Optional: vegan aioli or any creamy dressing

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the patties and sauce, 10 minutes to cook the patties, and a few minutes to toast and assemble the burgers. Overall, expect around 30 minutes from start to finish—quick and satisfying!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Black Bean Patties:

Start by mashing the drained black beans in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher. Keep some small chunks for great texture. Stir in the cooked mashed sweet potato, chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well. If the mixture feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more bread crumbs. Once your mix holds together nicely, shape it into 4 even patties and place them on a plate or baking sheet.

2. Cook the Patties:

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, giving them time to develop a crispy, golden crust and warm through. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Green Goddess Sauce:

In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, half an avocado, fresh parsley, chives, tarragon (or basil), lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

4. Toast the Buns and Prepare the Spread:

Lightly toast your burger buns to add a bit of crunch. Spread mashed avocado or guacamole generously on the bottom halves of the buns for a creamy base.

5. Assemble the Burger:

On the avocado-spread bottom bun, add two fresh tomato slices. Then place a warm black bean patty on top. Spread a spoonful of the Green Goddess sauce over the patty. If you like, add a slice of roasted beet or some extra greens next. Layer with slices of ripe avocado, followed by alfalfa sprouts and lettuce leaves. Finish with the top bun, pressing gently to hold everything together.

6. Serve:

Serve your Green Goddess Black Bean Burgers immediately with your favorite side like crispy fries, a fresh salad, or crunchy chips. Enjoy!

Can I Use Frozen Black Beans for the Patties?

Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and drain them before mashing. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture, which helps the patties hold together better.

How Can I Make This Burger Gluten-Free?

Simply swap the regular bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free oats. This keeps the patties binding without gluten.

Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Form the patties and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. For even better texture, chill them to firm up before cooking.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sauce?

Keep the Green Goddess sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before using and add a squeeze of lemon if the flavors have mellowed.