Flavorful & Fast: The Ultimate Vegan Quinoa Burgers (Ready in Under 30 Minutes!)
These incredible vegan quinoa burgers are bursting with flavor, packed with plant-based protein, and incredibly quick to make – perfect for busy weeknights, coming together in under 30 minutes! Featuring the delightful sweet-tart notes of sun-dried tomatoes and generous amounts of melty vegan mozzarella, these healthy veggie burgers are guaranteed to be a hit with both vegans and meat-eeaters alike. Prepare for a satisfying and truly delicious meal that will become a staple in your kitchen.
I often think of these Quinoa Burgers as a gourmet, healthier twist on a classic pizza burger, bringing all those beloved flavors into a convenient patty. They have been a long-standing favorite recipe of mine for over a decade, and through years of refining, I’ve mastered the art of ensuring all the ingredients bind together perfectly, preventing any crumbling – a common challenge with veggie burgers (don’t worry, I’ve included expert tips below if you need extra guidance!). These robust and flavorful vegan burgers are absolutely irresistible when served on soft, fluffy vegan burger buns, piled high with all your preferred toppings. Get ready for a plant-based burger experience that’s both comforting and exciting!
Why You’ll Love These Amazing Vegan Quinoa Burgers
- Naturally Gluten-Free, Wholly Vegan, and Exceptionally Satisfying. These quinoa burgers stand out because they aren’t attempting to imitate meat; instead, they celebrate their own unique and delicious identity. Crafted without traditional breadcrumbs, they are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for a wider range of dietary needs. Each patty is packed with wholesome ingredients that deliver incredible flavor and a truly satisfying texture, ensuring you feel full and happy after every bite.
- Made with Simple, Accessible Ingredients. You don’t need obscure or expensive items to whip up these fantastic burgers. The recipe utilizes straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or readily available at any grocery store. Plus, their inherent simplicity makes them incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization of flavors to suit your personal preferences.
- Effortless One-Bowl Preparation. Say goodbye to multiple dirty dishes! I’ll guide you through making these thick, perfectly shaped, and incredibly tasty quinoa patties all in a single mixing bowl. This streamlined process not only saves you time on cleanup but also ensures a consistent blend of flavors. A quick pan-sear then creates an irresistible crispy exterior while maintaining a tender, flavorful interior.
- Quickly Ready in Under 30 Minutes. This quinoa burger recipe is a true lifesaver for those busy days. With minimal prep time and a rapid cooking process, you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in less than half an hour. It’s an ideal solution for quick weeknight dinners, spontaneous gatherings, or anytime you crave a wholesome and speedy plant-based meal.
Essential Ingredients for Your Vegan Quinoa Burgers
Below, I’ve provided detailed notes on each key ingredient and potential substitutions to help you tailor this recipe to your liking. For the complete list of ingredients with precise measurements, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Quinoa – The star of our burger, quinoa offers a complete protein source and a delightful texture. While you can certainly use pre-cooked or frozen quinoa to save time, I highly recommend cooking yours fresh from uncooked quinoa, ideally in rich vegetable broth, for the best flavor and consistency. If you’re starting with uncooked quinoa, be sure to rinse it first (see below for details).
- Vegan Mozzarella Shredded Cheese – This ingredient is crucial for that classic cheesy, melty burger experience. Pre-shredded vegan mozzarella is a fantastic time-saver, but you can also purchase a block of vegan cheese and shred it yourself. I’ve had great success and highly recommend brands like Miyoko’s, Daiya, Follow Your Heart, and Violife for their excellent melt and flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These concentrated gems are a secret weapon in this recipe. They infuse the burgers with a wonderfully sweet-tart, umami-rich flavor that adds incredible depth and complexity, distinguishing these patties from ordinary veggie burgers.
- Flax Eggs – The humble flax egg plays a dual role in our quinoa burgers. Made from ground flaxseed and water, it acts as an essential binder, holding the quinoa grains and other ingredients together firmly to prevent crumbling. Additionally, flaxseeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to the overall nutritional value and helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Flour – A small amount of flour is vital for ensuring the burgers hold their shape during cooking. All-purpose flour works perfectly here, but if you’re following a gluten-free diet, coconut flour is an excellent alternative. It helps absorb excess moisture and creates a more cohesive patty.
- Scallions or Green Onions – These add a delicate oniony flavor and a pleasant touch of freshness and color to the burgers. You can use the white part for a bit more crunch and pungency, or the green tops for a milder, more verdant taste.
- Garlic Powder – I opt for powdered garlic over fresh in this recipe for a more mellow, evenly distributed garlic flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients. It also minimizes the risk of burning, which can happen with finely minced fresh garlic during pan-frying. However, if you prefer, fresh garlic can be substituted.
- Oil – A modest amount of oil is used both in the burger mixture and for pan-frying. Olive oil can lend a subtle, nutty undertone, while a neutral-tasting oil like avocado oil allows the other flavors to shine. Choose based on your preference.
- Sriracha – This ingredient is optional, but highly recommended! A dash of sriracha introduces a fantastic sweet and spicy kick that elevates the entire flavor profile of the quinoa burgers. Feel free to use any other hot sauce you enjoy if sriracha isn’t your preference.
Why Rinsing Quinoa is Essential
For the best-tasting quinoa, I strongly recommend thoroughly rinsing uncooked quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water before cooking. This crucial step removes quinoa’s natural protective coating, called saponin. Saponin can impart a bitter, soapy taste to the cooked grains, which you definitely want to avoid in your delicious burgers. While some brands offer pre-rinsed quinoa, it’s always a good idea to double-check the packaging to confirm.
Crafting Your Quinoa Burgers: A Step-by-Step Guide
These homemade vegan quinoa burgers are designed for efficiency and flavor. With just about 20 minutes of active prep time, followed by a quick pan-sear, they truly are one of my go-to weeknight meals. The secret to their incredible crispness and speed is a hot pan – make sure it’s properly preheated and listen for that satisfying sizzle when the patties hit the oil!
- Cook the Quinoa to Perfection. Begin by thoroughly rinsing your uncooked quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter saponins. For an extra step that enhances flavor and texture, dry the rinsed quinoa by adding it to a warm saucepan for a couple of minutes, stirring gently. Next, stir in the vegetable broth and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender and fluffy. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside to cool completely before mixing with other ingredients.
- Combine All Burger Ingredients. Once your quinoa has cooled, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded vegan mozzarella cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, the prepared flax egg, flour, diced scallions, salt, pepper, garlic powder, a touch of oil, and the optional sriracha. Stir all the ingredients vigorously and thoroughly until they are completely combined and form a cohesive mixture. This ensures every bite of your burger is packed with flavor and holds together well.
- Shape the Quinoa Patties. Carefully divide the quinoa mixture into four equal portions. On a piece of parchment paper or a clean plate, form each portion into thick, firm burger patties. Press them together tightly to ensure they hold their shape during cooking. Aim for a consistent thickness for even cooking.
- Pan-Fry Your Delicious Burgers. Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. To ensure the oil is hot enough for a crispy crust without burning, break off a tiny piece of one of the burgers and drop it into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, your pan is ready! Carefully add the shaped burger patties to the hot pan. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until beautifully golden brown and crispy, then gently flip them. Cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side until equally golden and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy. Once cooked, transfer the golden-brown patties to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly and absorb any excess oil. This step helps maintain their crispy texture. Finally, assemble your vegan quinoa burgers on your favorite buns, loaded with all your preferred toppings. Get ready to savor every bite of these homemade, flavorful, and satisfying plant-based burgers!
Expert Tips for Perfect Quinoa Burgers & Common Questions
- Mix Thoroughly for Best Results. Just like any successful burger, whether meat-based or plant-based, the key to a patty that holds together perfectly lies in how you mix your ingredients and form your patties. Ensure you mix all components really well, until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture feels cohesive. When forming the patties, press them together tightly and firmly. This compression is crucial for preventing them from crumbling apart during cooking.
- How to Fix Overly Wet Patties. If, after mixing, you find that your uncooked quinoa patties feel too wet or aren’t holding their shape well, don’t despair! This is an easy fix. Simply add a bit more flour (all-purpose or gluten-free, depending on your preference) to the mixture, re-mix everything thoroughly, and then form the patties again. The extra flour will help absorb excess moisture and provide the necessary binding power.
- Bake Your Burgers for a Different Texture. If you prefer a hands-off approach or a slightly different texture, these quinoa burgers can also be baked! To do so, arrange your perfectly shaped patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400ºF (200ºC) for approximately 20 minutes. For even cooking and a golden finish on both sides, remember to carefully flip the burgers about halfway through the baking time.
Irresistible Burger Toppings Ideas
Elevate your quinoa burger experience with these fantastic topping suggestions:
- Classic condiments like ketchup, mustard, or creamy vegan mayonnaise
- Fresh and crisp lettuce, thinly sliced onion, and ripe tomatoes
- Melty vegan cheese slices for extra indulgence
- Creamy sliced avocado or a generous dollop of homemade guacamole
- A touch of exotic flavor with Jamaican Jerk sauce
- Sweet and tangy mango salsa for a vibrant twist
Creative Serving Suggestions
Beyond the delicious toppings, these versatile quinoa burgers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. Serve them alongside my popular healthy kale cabbage slaw for a fresh crunch, or drizzle them with my creamy homemade ranch dressing. For classic comfort, you can’t go wrong with a side of crispy homemade sweet potato fries. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try them with some savory maple roasted Brussels sprouts with apples and pecans or a simple side of sautéed spinach. For a lighter meal, consider shaping the patties smaller and serving them atop a vibrant salad bowl.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Quinoa Burgers
These vegan quinoa burgers are not only delicious fresh but also hold up well for future meals, making them perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate. To keep your cooked burgers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results and to prevent sticking, place a piece of wax paper between each patty. They will maintain their quality and flavor for approximately 4-5 days when stored this way. While they are good chilled, they genuinely taste their best when enjoyed fresh or properly reheated.
- Reheat. When you’re ready to enjoy your stored quinoa burgers, there are several easy reheating methods. You can warm them gently in the microwave until heated through, or for a crispier exterior, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, a quick warm-up in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat will also work wonderfully, helping to restore some of that initial crispy texture.
- Freeze. For longer storage, these quinoa burgers freeze beautifully! Arrange cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using one of the methods above.
More Delicious Vegan Burger Recipes to Explore
If you loved these quinoa burgers, be sure to check out these other fantastic plant-based burger creations:
- Easy Grillable Veggie Burgers
- Vegan Quinoa Cauliflower Burgers
- Flavorful Falafel Burger
- Hearty Vegan Quinoa Beet Burgers
Enjoy, friends! If you make this mouthwatering recipe, please snap a photo and share it using #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! We’d absolutely love to see your creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and give the recipe a rating – your feedback is so appreciated! Thank you!
Quinoa Burgers (30 Minutes & Vegan)
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Ingredients
To cook quinoa (makes 3 cups):
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Quinoa Burgers
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ¾ cup vegan mozzarella shredded cheese
- 2 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 flax eggs, (2 tablespoons of flax meal + 6 tablespoons of water mixed together for 15 minutes)
- 3 tablespoons flour, you can use coconut flour for GF
- 1 tablespoon chopped scallion/green onions
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sriracha, optional
- 2 tablespoons oil
Instructions
Cooking Quinoa
- Thoroughly wash the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under running water.
- In a saucepan over medium-high heat, add 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Add the rinsed quinoa to the pan and toast it for about 2 minutes to dry and enhance its nutty flavor.
- Pour the vegetable broth and salt into the pan with the quinoa. Stir well, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Once all the water has been absorbed, the quinoa is perfectly cooked. Fluff it gently with a fork. Allow the cooked quinoa to cool completely before using. You won’t need all 3 cups for the burgers, so set the remainder aside for other delicious uses.
Quinoa Burgers
- In a large bowl, combine the 1 cup of cooled cooked quinoa with all remaining burger ingredients. Stir vigorously until thoroughly combined and the mixture forms a cohesive mass.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into firm, thick burger patties. Place them on parchment paper (or directly on a plate) until ready to cook.
- Heat the 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- To ensure the oil is hot enough (but not smoking or burned), break off a tiny piece of one of the burgers and drop it into the pan. If it sizzles instantly, the oil is ready for cooking.
- Carefully place the burger patties into the hot pan. Allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms, then gently flip them over.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side until equally golden brown and cooked through. If they’re not quite golden enough, cook for an additional minute on each side as needed. Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly and absorb any excess oil. Assemble with your favorite toppings and enjoy your delicious vegan quinoa burgers!
Notes
To make a flax egg, simply combine 1 tablespoon of ground flax meal with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency, mimicking an egg. For this recipe, you’ll need two flax eggs, so double the quantities (2 tablespoons flax meal + 6 tablespoons water).
The secret to a perfectly structured burger is diligent mixing and firm patty formation. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until uniformly combined. When shaping, press the patties tightly to prevent crumbling. If your mixture feels too wet, gradually add a little more flour (either all-purpose or a gluten-free option like coconut flour) and remix until it reaches the desired consistency.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
To Refrigerate: Store cooked quinoa burgers in an airtight container in the fridge, separated by wax paper to prevent sticking. They will last for about 4-5 days and are best enjoyed fresh or reheated.
To Reheat: Warm refrigerated burgers in the microwave, in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
To Freeze: Place cooked patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, with parchment paper between layers, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.