There’s nothing more underrated than the vegan burger. (No, carnivores, that is not an oxymoron.) Though there’s a growing number of plant-based recipes that vegans and meat-eaters can’t wait to get their hands on, the burger sadly falls by the wayside. It seems like our options are either some kind of spontaneously disintegrating soy product or another variation of the black bean burger.
Let’s be clear here—we have no problem with black beans. In fact, we pretty much worship the ground these little protein-packed burrito buddies grow on. We just know it’s not thrilling to eat the same thing at every.single.cookout. Luckily, there are some slightly more creative options out there for the hungry vegan. These 11 vegan burger recipes are delicious and diverse, so you can serve up a totally new kind of burger for every occasion—while keeping that can of beans in the cabinet.
1. Maple Sriracha Tempeh Burger
If you’re on team tempeh, you’ll want to add this sweet and spicy burger to your roster immediately. Don’t be fooled: Though sweetened with a touch of maple syrup, this patty has a kick. Add a little extra Sriracha to spice it up (or, as we like to say, crank up the tempeh-rature.)
2. Roasted Garlic Artichoke Burger
Roasted garlic, lemon, and artichoke hearts sound like they should belong in your favorite dip—not between two buns. But made with a white bean base seasoned with parsley and tossed in bread crumbs, this burger holds its own. We suggest topping it with mustard or vegan aioli and—unless you’re about to smooch someone special—be generous with the garlic.
3. Smoky Vegan BBQ Beet Burger
Loaded with spiced lentils, beets, and BBQ sauce, these protein-packed burgers feature all the best flavors of summer. Chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and smoked paprika? Yes, yes, and more, please! Top these guys with a generous mound of sweet, caramelized onions and pretend it’s grilling season already.
4. Curry-Spiced Sweet Potato and Wild Rice Burger
This is a perfect dinner for when you’re craving curry but are hungry enough to consume about 12 entrées. This combination of soft sweet potato, crispy wild rice, walnuts, cranberries, and a mound of spices comes together to create a flavorful and perfectly textured burger. Top it with some arugula and mango chutney.
5. Sun-Dried Tomato Chickpea Burger
Sweet sun-dried tomatoes, basil, crushed almonds, and hearty chickpeas come together in this herby ensemble. Serve these up on ciabatta rolls with sprouts, avocado, and a little vegan aioli for a garden burger we wish could grow in our backyard.
6. Acorn Squash Burger With Cranberries and Pecans
Practically Thanksgiving-on-a-bun, this acorn squash burger is about as festive as it gets. Serve on a warm, toasted wheat roll, on top of some leafy greens, or maybe just in a cornucopia.
7. Lentil Walnut Burgers
This patty proves that “burger” and “healthy” can exist in the same sentence. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts, antioxidants from mushrooms, and all the fiber from the lentils, this patty is packed with the good stuff.
8. Thai Quinoa Burger
Vegan burgers should have flavor. And, in our opinion, lots of it. This burger packs a powerful punch, featuring a slew of spices, herbs, and red curry paste. And no need to worry about these guys falling apart in the oven—the quinoa and flax egg help to keep them together.
9. Eggplant Pulled Pork Burger
Think going vegan means putting pulled pork in your past? Think again. This eggplant version is even better (and better for you) than the original. Serve this smoky, hearty hoagie with a side of sweet potato fries and watch the non-vegans come running.
10. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burger
OK, we won’t deny that there are black beans in here. But trust us, this patty will put those mushy wads of beans you once called burgers to shame. Packed with baked sweet potato, walnut, and spices, this slightly smoky burger is loaded with flavor.
11. Red Lentil Cauliflower Burger With Chipotle Habanero Mayo and Roasted Peppers
If the flame emoji could apply to any burger, it would be this one. This spicy cauliflower and lentil burger is packed with flavor and fiber. Heat things up more by topping each patty with jalapeños and a dollop of homemade vegan habanero mayo.
