Get ready to wow your taste buds with these Mushroom Lentil Burgers—a truly satisfying, hearty alternative to traditional burgers that even the biggest meat lovers will crave. Each bite bursts with umami-rich mushrooms and wholesome lentils, complemented by savory aromatics and just the right amount of smoky flavor. These burgers aren’t just delicious—they’re also packed with plant-based protein and nourishing, fiber-rich ingredients, making them a weeknight staple and a crowd-pleasing option at any gathering. If you’re looking for a new favorite veggie burger, this is the one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes these Mushroom Lentil Burgers so irresistible? It’s all in the simple but purposeful ingredients—every element plays a role in building the complex flavor, satisfying texture, and irresistible aroma. Let’s give each one its moment in the spotlight!
- Lentils: The hearty base, full of plant-based protein and a nutty flavor that forms the perfect “meaty” texture.
- Water or Vegetable Broth: Use broth for a flavor boost, but water works just fine to cook your lentils to tender perfection.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies for maximum depth of taste.
- Onion: Finely chopped to blend smoothly and bring lovely sweetness and complexity.
- Garlic: Two cloves infuse the patties with bold, aromatic flavor—don’t skip it!
- Cremini or White Mushrooms: These are the flavor backbone, bringing earthiness and a juicy, “umami” punch.
- Soy Sauce: Lends saltiness and a deep savory layer that makes the burgers downright addictive.
- Smoked Paprika: Just a teaspoon brings gentle heat and sensational smokiness that echoes classic BBQ.
- Dried Thyme: Adds subtle herbal notes that round out the flavors beautifully.
- Rolled Oats: Acts as a binder and brings a lovely, hearty texture to the patties.
- Breadcrumbs: Help hold everything together and add a hint of crunch.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and making every ingredient shine.
- Oil for Cooking: Ensures a golden, crispy exterior when pan-frying the burgers.
How to Make Mushroom Lentil Burgers
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
Start by rinsing your lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Place them in a saucepan with water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower your heat and let the lentils simmer gently—about 20 to 25 minutes—until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Drain off any extra liquid and set the lentils aside to cool slightly while you work on the veggies. This foundational step is key to the firm-yet-tender bite of your Mushroom Lentil Burgers.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms
While the lentils cook, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for around three minutes until soft and fragrant. Next, add the finely chopped mushrooms. Let them cook down—this takes about six to eight minutes—so they lose their moisture and begin to brown, unlocking that signature savory flavor. Finish this step by stirring in your soy sauce, smoked paprika, and thyme, ensuring every bit of mushroom goodness is seasoned just right.
Step 3: Mash and Mix the Patty Base
Place your cooked lentils in a large mixing bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher, leaving some whole for texture. Scrape in the mushroom mixture, then add rolled oats, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined—your mixture should hold together nicely. The oats and breadcrumbs soak up any excess moisture, helping form patties that are sturdy yet moist. Let the mixture rest for 10 to 15 minutes, which gives the oats time to soften and helps everything bind together beautifully.
Step 4: Form and Cook the Patties
Using clean hands, form the mixture into four to six patties. Heat a thin layer of oil in your skillet over medium heat, and once shimmering, cook the patties for about four to five minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous, crispy crust and a piping hot center. If you prefer baking, line a tray, preheat to 375°F, and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. These Mushroom Lentil Burgers are truly versatile, so choose your favorite method!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the patties are beautifully browned, slide them onto your favorite burger buns, pile high with toppings, and savor every bite. With their deep flavor and appealing texture, these Mushroom Lentil Burgers deserve all your best fixings. Now you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Mushroom Lentil Burgers
Garnishes
The fun part! Dress up your burgers with all your favorite goodies. Crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, tangy pickles, creamy avocado, or vegan cheese all work wonders. A generous swipe of vegan mayo, spicy mustard, or even smoky barbecue sauce helps highlight the rich flavor of Mushroom Lentil Burgers. The more colorful and fresh, the better!
Side Dishes
Pair your Mushroom Lentil Burgers with a side of crispy baked fries, sweet potato wedges, or a simple green salad for balance. Coleslaw and roasted vegetables are great choices, too. Looking for something lighter? Try a fresh cucumber-tomato salad or grilled corn for that ultimate summer cookout feel.
Creative Ways to Present
You don’t have to stick with the classic burger bun! Serve patties over a bed of leafy greens for a nourishing burger bowl, or stuff them into pita pockets with shredded veggies and tahini sauce. For a brunch twist, top a patty with a fried (or vegan) egg and sautéed mushrooms. Mushroom Lentil Burgers are just as happy in wraps, sandwiches, or even sliced over grain bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have cooked patties leftover, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Separate layers with parchment or wax paper to keep them from sticking together and to maintain the perfect texture when you reheat.
Freezing
To freeze, let patties cool completely, then layer them between parchment in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. You can freeze them cooked or uncooked—just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating or cooking.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat your Mushroom Lentil Burgers in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, about 2–3 minutes per side. Alternatively, warm them in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes. Microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll miss out on that irresistible crust!
FAQs
Can I make Mushroom Lentil Burgers gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe completely gluten-free, just swap in certified gluten-free rolled oats and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Everything else is naturally wheat-free, so you can serve these burgers with confidence.
Do I need to use cremini mushrooms, or can I substitute another kind?
You can use either cremini or white button mushrooms with equally delicious results. If you want to experiment, try portobello mushrooms for even more umami—or mix a couple for extra depth.
Can I bake the Mushroom Lentil Burgers instead of frying them?
Yes! Baked burgers are just as tasty and a bit lighter. Simply arrange the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes at 375°F, flipping once halfway through.
Why is it important to let the mixture rest before forming patties?
Resting allows the oats and breadcrumbs to absorb moisture and bind everything together. Skipping this step may lead to burgers that don’t hold their shape well, so give the mixture at least 10 minutes to rest before shaping.
Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
Definitely! Form the patties as usual, then freeze them flat with parchment between the layers. When ready to cook, let them thaw in the refrigerator first so they hold together during cooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dependable, flavor-packed veggie burger that everyone will love, this Mushroom Lentil Burgers recipe is about to become your go-to. Whether for a weekday dinner or a backyard feast, they deliver savory satisfaction in every bite. Give them a try—and discover just how delicious plant-based cooking can be!
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Mushroom Lentil Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 burgers 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Mushroom Lentil Burgers are a delicious and hearty plant-based option for burger lovers. Packed with protein and fiber, these vegan patties are flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Lentil Mixture:
- 1 cup dry brown or green lentils
- 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
Mushroom Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking
Instructions
- Cook Lentils: Rinse lentils and cook in water/broth until tender. Drain and cool.
- Sauté Vegetables: Sauté onion, garlic, mushrooms, soy sauce, paprika, and thyme.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine lentils, mushroom mixture, oats, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Form Patties: Shape into patties and let rest.
- Cook: Pan-fry patties until browned and heated through.
- Serve: Enjoy on buns with desired toppings.
Notes
- To make the burgers gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and breadcrumbs.
- Burgers can also be baked at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
