These Red Lentil, Mushroom & Carrot Burger Patties are packed with plant-based protein, hearty vegetables, and satisfying flavor. They’re a great way to eat more legumes without feeling like you’re missing out.
Servings: 8–9 patties
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked red or brown lentils
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼–1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional additions:
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and most of the moisture has cooked off. Add grated carrots and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Lentils: If using dried lentils, rinse and cook according to package instructions until tender but not mushy.
- Mash the Lentils: For brown lentils, lightly mash with a fork, leaving some texture. Red lentils usually don’t require mashing, as they are naturally softer.
- Mix the Patties: In a large bowl, combine lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, thyme, and optional spices. Mix well. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into burger-sized patties. This recipe makes about 8–9 patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side until golden.
- Alternative: Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through if desired.
Notes
- Make sure you rinse the lentils well. They come pretty dirty.
- Red or brown lentils both work—brown lentils hold together better, while red lentils create a softer texture.
- Increasing the carrots adds extra veggies and natural sweetness.
- These patties freeze well and are great for meal prep.
- I increased the amount of dry thyme and paprika to 1 Tbsp.
