Red Kidney Bean Burgers Recipes

Kidney beans are often overlooked in the world of bean burgers, with white bean and black bean burgers stealing the spotlight. But not anymore—these kidney bean burgers are here to change that!

This recipe is incredibly quick and easy to make, delivering fantastic (and healthy) results with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners, they've quickly become a family favorite in our home!

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 35 mins

Ingredients:

-       1½ cups kidney beans

-       ¼ medium onion

-       2 medium cloves garlic

-       2 tablespoons tomato ketchup

-       1 teaspoon dried oregano

-       1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika , see notes if you are in UK/Europe

-       ½ teaspoon fine sea salt

-       ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

-       1 cup (90 grams) rolled oats , or old fashioned oats (use gluten-free certified oats of necessary)

-       OPTIONAL but recommended if you can

-       1 handful fresh parsley

Instructions:

Preparation

-       Rinse the Beans – Soak Red Beans for a few hours then drain and rinse the kidney beans well, then give them a good shake to remove excess water.-

-       Divide the Beans – Set aside half of the beans in a small container. Add the remaining half to a food processor.

-       Blend the Base – To the food processor, add the onion, garlic, ketchup, oregano, chili powder or smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Process until a smooth paste forms, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well blended.

-       Add Texture – Open the food processor and add the reserved kidney beans, oats, and parsley (if using). Pulse a few times to break everything down into smaller, chunky pieces. Scrape the sides and bottom to ensure even mixing. Be careful not to over-process—you want some texture to remain.

-       Shape the Patties – Remove the blade from the food processor. With your hands, tightly squeeze portions of the mixture into firm balls, then flatten them into four patties about ½ to ¾ inch thick. This helps them hold their shape.

-       Chill the Patties – Place the shaped patties on a parchment-lined plate or tray. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 3 days. If chilling for longer than 30 minutes, cover them well to prevent drying out.

Cooking Methods

Pan-Frying:

-       Lightly brush a large skillet or frying pan with oil and place over medium-low heat.

-       Once hot, carefully add the patties.

-       Cook for about 8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and firm. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your cookware and stove, so adjust as needed.

Oven-Baking:

-       Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

-       Place the patties on a lined baking tray.

-       Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until firm and crispy on the outside.

Grilling:

-       Avoid placing the patties directly on the grill grates. Instead, use greased aluminum foil, a greased grill pan, or a cast-iron skillet.

-       Cook over medium-low heat for about 7–8 minutes per side, until browned and firm.

-       Enjoy your delicious and nutritious kidney bean burgers!