Chipotle Cheese Stuffed Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Creme

7 steps · 45 min total

1. 01

   Sauté Mushrooms and Onions

   Heat a swirl of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced mushrooms and onions, then sauté until they're softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as they cook.
2. 02

   Mash Black Beans

   Drain the black beans and move them to a medium bowl. Use a fork to press and mash the beans until they're mostly broken down, but still retain some texture.
3. 03

   Combine Burger Mix

   Add the sautéed mushrooms and onions to the mashed black beans. Stir in the egg, panko bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder. Mix everything together until it's well combined.
4. 04

   Form and Stuff Patties

   Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a burger patty. Feel free to make them full-sized or smaller sliders, depending on what you prefer.

   Make a small indent in the center of each patty. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese spread into this indent, then carefully mold the burger mixture over the cream cheese to seal it inside.

5. 05

   Cook the Burgers

   Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add another swirl of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add 2 burgers at a time to the pan.

   Sear each side until the patties are cooked through and browned, about 4 minutes per side. For extra cheesiness, place a slice of cheese on top of each burger during the last minute of cooking, then cover the skillet to help the cheese steam and melt. Transfer the cooked burgers to a plate and repeat with the remaining patties.

6. 06

   Make Avocado Creme

   While the burgers cook, get started on the avocado creme. Combine the avocado, 1/4 cup cream, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and a pinch of sea salt in a food processor or blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust with more cream or lime juice if you think it needs it.
7. 07

   Assemble Burgers

   Place each hot, cooked burger onto an open toasted bun. Top with fresh spinach and a slice of tomato, if you're using them, and a generous scoop of the avocado creme. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.