There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of chickpea burgers sizzling in the pan, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. These Easy Chickpea Burgers are not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and texture. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal that perfectly balances tender and crispy elements, making them a hit for any occasion.
This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a quick dinner idea, meal prep option, or a tasty vegetarian alternative at barbecues. You can also prep these burgers ahead of time and store them for easy weeknight meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- These burgers have a satisfying crunch on the outside and a moist interior.
- The spices create a flavor profile that enhances every bite.
- They’re quick to make — ready in under 30 minutes!
- Versatile enough to be served with various toppings and sauces.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious chickpea burgers.
For the Burgers
- 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (1 1/2 cups cooked)
- 1 large carrot, grated
- ½ red onion, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose, whole wheat or gluten-free flour
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 1/4 cup grapeseed or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving
- Your favorite BBQ sauce (optional; check for organic without high fructose corn syrup)
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Red onion
- Shiitake bacon (optional but recommended!)
- Spicy mayo or special burger sauce
- 4 burger buns
Note: Use gluten-free flour if needed.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Tahini can be swapped for sunflower seed butter.
- Chickpeas can be replaced with cooked lentils.
- Use any preferred burger sauce instead of spicy mayo.
- Regular onions can be used in place of red onion.
How to Make It
Let’s get started on your delicious chickpea burgers.
1. Preheat
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Prepare the Chickpeas
Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them in a bowl until they’re mostly mashed, with some chunks remaining. Use a large grater to grate the onion and carrot, then finely grate the garlic or place all in a food processor and process until finely minced. Add these to the bowl with the chickpeas.
3. Mix Ingredients
Stir in the tahini, flour, cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix with a spoon and then with your fingers until a sticky dough forms.
4. Form Patties
Form the mixture into 4 round patties, about 3 inches wide and 3/4 inch thick, placing them on a cutting board.
5. Heat Oil
In a medium frying pan, heat 1/4 cup of oil over medium heat. Carefully add the patties to the pan. If you have one, use a splatter screen to minimize mess.
6. Fry Patties
Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip and fry for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown, turning down the heat as necessary.
7. Bake Patties
Transfer the patties to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and baked through.
8. Cool and Serve
Remove the patties from the oven and let them cool for at least 15 minutes to firm up. Paint liberally with BBQ sauce and add your desired toppings, ensuring to include a creamy rich topping like spicy mayo or special sauce for extra flavor.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t over-mash the chickpeas for better texture.
- Allow the patties to rest before frying to hold their shape.
- Adjust spices according to your preferences for boldness.
- Serve with an array of toppings for a fun meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a hearty meal with crispy fries.
- Pair with a fresh side salad for a lighter option.
- Great for casual gatherings or summer barbecues.
