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Crispy, Juicy & Flavor-Packed: The Ultimate Vegan Smash Burger

Writer's picture: Parisa BehboodiParisa Behboodi

Updated: Feb 12


A close-up of a stacked vegan smash burger with lettuce, and tomatoes on a toasted bun.
Crispy edges, juicy center—this Vegan Smash Burger is a plant-based dream!

Craving a smoky, crispy, and ultra-juicy burger without the meat? This Vegan Smash Burger delivers all the classic burger flavors with a crispy-edged, tender patty loaded with umami goodness. The key? A perfectly seasoned plant-based patty, a hot griddle, and a quick smash for that signature crust! Whether you're vegan or just looking for a delicious plant-based alternative, this recipe is a must-try.


This easy, foolproof recipe requires zero fancy techniques, so you don’t have to be a pro to make it. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a burger that rivals any restaurant’s, but 100% plant-based.


Let’s get smashing! 🍔🔥


Ingredients


For the Patties:


  • 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and mashed

  • ½ cup vital wheat gluten (for structure & chewiness)

  • ¼ cup finely chopped mushrooms (for umami flavor)

  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (adds a cheesy flavor)

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)


For Assembling the Burger:


  • 2 soft vegan burger buns

  • 2 tbsp vegan butter (for toasting buns)

  • 2 slices of vegan cheese (cheddar-style or your favorite)

  • ¼ cup shredded lettuce

  • 2 slices of tomato

  • 4 slices of pickles

  • 2 tbsp vegan burger sauce (recipe below)


For the Vegan Burger Sauce:


  • ¼ cup vegan mayo

  • 1 tbsp ketchup

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tbsp finely chopped pickles


Nutrition Information (Per Burger)


  • Calories: 420

  • Carbohydrates: 48g

  • Protein: 21g

  • Fat: 15g

  • Sugar: 6g

  • Fiber: 7g


Allergy Information


  • Dairy-Free: Yes

  • Nut-Free: Yes

  • Soy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute vital wheat gluten & breadcrumbs with oat flour (texture will be softer)


Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Smash Burger


  • Don’t overmix the patty dough! Over-kneading can make it too dense. A little kneading helps create the perfect texture.

  • Use a very hot pan. A high-heat skillet gives you that crispy, restaurant-quality sear.

  • Smash with force. The thinner you smash, the crispier the edges!

  • Melt the cheese perfectly. Cover the pan with a lid for 30 seconds after flipping to help the cheese melt beautifully.


Tasty Variations


  • Spicy Chipotle Smash Burger: Add 1 tsp chipotle powder to the patty mixture and top with jalapeños.

  • Garlic Butter Smash Burger: Spread garlic-infused vegan butter on the buns before toasting.

  • California Smash Burger: Add avocado slices and vegan ranch dressing for a creamy twist.


Storage & Meal Prep Tips


  • Make Ahead: Shape the patties and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties for up to 1 month. When ready, cook directly from frozen (add 2 extra minutes to cook time).

  • Reheating: Warm cooked patties in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.


Time of Preparing:


  • Servings: 2 burgers

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 20 minutes


Instructions


Step 1: Make the Burger Patties


  • In a large bowl, combine mashed black beans, vital wheat gluten, mushrooms, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, and all spices.

  • Mix well, then knead for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is firm but still pliable.

  • Divide the mixture into two equal balls.


Step 2: Smash & Cook the Patties


  • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.

  • Place a ball of the burger mixture onto the hot pan.

  • Using a flat spatula or a burger press, smash the patty down as thin as possible (about ½-inch thick). Hold for 10 seconds to ensure it stays flat.

  • Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip. Place a slice of vegan cheese on top and cook for another 2-3 minutes until crispy and browned.


Step 3: Toast the Buns


  • While the patties cook, spread vegan butter on the inside of each burger bun.

  • Toast them in the skillet until golden brown and crispy.


Step 4: Assemble the Smash Burger


  • Spread vegan burger sauce on both sides of the toasted buns.

  • Add shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles.

  • Place the crispy, cheesy burger patty on top.

  • Cover with the top bun and press gently.


Step 5: Enjoy!


  • Serve immediately with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a side of your choice. Get ready for the juiciest, crispiest vegan burger experience!


A bite taken out of a vegan smash burger, showing the crispy, well-seasoned patty and melted cheese.
No meat? No problem! This plant-based smash burger delivers all the flavor and crunch!

🔥 Who said plant-based burgers can’t be amazing? This Vegan Smash Burger is proof that you don’t need meat for a crispy, juicy, and ridiculously delicious burger experience! Try it once, and you’ll be hooked.


🍔 Give it a shot and share your creations using #KitchenPal! We can’t wait to see your burger masterpieces!




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