Print

Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 1 review

These easy 6-ingredient lentil burgers are a healthy, delicious, and protein-packed vegetarian alternative to traditional beef burgers, perfect for a quick meal. Made from red lentils, garlic, shallots, carrots, tomato paste, and fresh cilantro, they can be baked or pan-fried until crispy and served with your favorite burger toppings or sides.

Ingredients

Primary Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups dried red lentils
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large shallot (or 1 small onion), small diced (about 1/3 cup)
  • 1/3 cup grated carrots (about 3 small)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Cooking

  • Neutral flavored cooking oil (for pan frying, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
  2. Soak lentils: Place the dried red lentils in a bowl and cover with water by about 2 inches. Let them soak for two hours to soften, then rinse and drain thoroughly.
  3. Prepare burger mixture: In a food processor, combine the drained lentils, minced garlic, diced shallot, grated carrots, tomato paste, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Pulse the mixture until well combined and it sticks together, scraping down the sides as needed.
  4. Shape patties: Using a ¼ cup measure, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them gently into patties about ½ inch thick.
  5. Option 1 – Bake: Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each patty and bake for an additional 10 minutes until both sides are crispy and golden.
  6. Option 2 – Pan-fry: Heat neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the patties. Fry the patties for about 4 minutes per side in batches if necessary, until they develop a golden, crispy crust. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
  7. Serve: Enjoy the lentil burgers on buns with your desired toppings, or serve alongside a fresh side salad or oven-roasted potatoes for a wholesome meal.

Notes

  • Soaking the lentils helps soften them and makes the patties easier to form and cook.
  • You can choose either baking or pan-frying depending on your preference for texture and convenience.
  • If you prefer a firmer texture, consider adding a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or oats to the mixture.
  • For additional flavor, season with cumin or smoked paprika if desired.
  • Store any leftover patties covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.