This protein-packed quinoa burger brings a wholesome twist to traditional patties, delivering both nutrition and incredible flavor in just 50 minutes. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers, each patty contains 9g of protein and only 198 calories, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meat-free meal. The 30-minute refrigeration time ensures the patties hold together beautifully, while the quick 10-minute cooking time means you’ll have dinner ready in a flash. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply exploring nutritious alternatives, these quinoa burgers will become your new favorite.
Colorful Quinoa Burger Components
- Quinoa & Rice Base: 2 cups cooked quinoa and 1 cup brown rice create a hearty, protein-rich foundation
- Fresh Vegetables: Chopped spinach and diced red bell pepper add nutrients and vibrant color
- Binding Ingredients: 2 eggs and Greek yogurt help hold everything together perfectly
- Seasonings: Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder create a delightful savory profile
- Toppings: Provolone cheese, fresh arugula, tomato slices, onion rings, and creamy avocado for the perfect finish
Step-by-Step Burger Creation
- Mix & Season: Combine all burger ingredients in a large bowl, adjust seasonings to your preference
- Chill: Let mixture rest in refrigerator for 30 minutes to help ingredients bind together
- Shape: Use a ½ cup measure to portion and form uniform patties on parchment paper
- Cook with Care: Heat skillet over medium heat, cook patties 3-4 minutes each side until golden brown
- Build Your Burger: Layer your whole wheat bun with cheese, fresh toppings, and favorite sauce for the ultimate experience
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These quinoa burgers are perfect for meal prep! You can keep the uncooked patties in your fridge for up to 2 days – just place them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container. After cooking, they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. Want to freeze them? Stack the uncooked patties with parchment paper between them, wrap well, and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking!
Easy Substitutions
Don’t have every ingredient? No problem! Swap the panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs or quick oats. Replace Greek yogurt with mayo, or use mashed avocado for a dairy-free option. No spinach? Try kale or Swiss chard instead. The eggs help bind everything together, but if you’re vegan, try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
Serving Ideas
These hearty burgers taste amazing with so many toppings! Try mixing up a quick sauce by combining mayo, sriracha, and lime juice. Love extra crunch? Add some pickled red onions or cucumber slices. For a low-carb meal, skip the bun and serve your burger on a bed of mixed greens with sliced avocado. These patties also taste great crumbled over a grain bowl or salad!
Success Tips
The secret to perfect quinoa burgers is making sure they hold together well. Don’t skip the 30-minute chill time – it helps the patties stay firm while cooking. When you’re shaping the patties, press them firmly together. If your mixture feels too wet, add a sprinkle more breadcrumbs. Too dry? Add a tiny splash more yogurt. Be gentle when flipping them in the pan, and let them get nice and golden on each side.
Quinoa Burger
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Large skillet
- Measuring Cup
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
Burger Patty
- 2 cups cooked quinoa about ½ cup dry
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves packed then finely chopped
Assembly
- 5 whole wheat buns
Instructions
- Add all burger ingredients to a large mixing bowl and stir very well to combine. Taste and add a little more salt and pepper, or other spices, to your liking, if needed.
- Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Line a large tray with parchment paper. Spoon burger mixture into a ½ cup measuring cup and pack it in with the back of a spoon. Invert mixture onto parchment paper. Use your hands to gently press down and mold the sides of the mixture to form a patty. Repeat with remaining mixture—it should make about 5 patties.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil to the pan or spray really well with non-stick cooking spray. Once hot, add patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until crisp and golden on the bottom. Very carefully flip them to the other side and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until golden brown on that side.
- Serve burgers on a whole wheat bun or lettuce wrap. Top with provolone cheese, arugula, tomato, avocado, onion, and desired sauce.
