These Cauliflower Veggie Burgers are a wholesome, satisfying twist on the classic burger.
Packed with plant-based protein from lentils and fiber-rich cauliflower, they make a nutritious, low-saturated-fat meal that keeps you full and energized.
The optional tahini-maple sauce adds a creamy, subtly sweet layer of flavor without extra heaviness.
Quick to prepare, versatile for frying or baking, and perfect for meal prep, these burgers are a great choice for everyday cooking—healthy, delicious, and family-friendly, whether served on buns or alongside a fresh salad.
Veggie Burger with Cauliflower
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Blender or food processor
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 spoon or spatula
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
- 1 head cauliflower cut into florets and roasted
- 1/2 cup 100 g uncooked lentils or 1 can (400 g) cooked lentils
- 1 cup 100 g gluten-free bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp tahini optional
- 1 tsp curry powder optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tahini Sauce:
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/4 cup 60 ml water
- 2 tbsp tahini paste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils (if using uncooked): If you’re starting with uncooked lentils, rinse 1/2 cup (100 g) thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Add them to a small saucepan with double the amount of water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 15–20 minutes or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain any excess water and allow the lentils to cool completely. Using pre-cooked or canned lentils works too—just drain and rinse them.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Wash the cauliflower thoroughly, removing any dirt or tough leaves. Cut the head into medium-sized florets to ensure even cooking. Spread the florets on a baking sheet in a single layer so they roast evenly. Roast for approximately 20 minutes, checking halfway through and flipping if necessary, until the edges are lightly golden and tender. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before using.
- Prepare the Tahini Sauce (Optional): While the cauliflower cools, prepare the tahini sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of tahini paste, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with a little more water if needed. The sauce should be pourable but still thick enough to coat a spoon. Set aside for serving with the burgers.
- Combine the Burger Ingredients: Once the cauliflower has cooled, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add the cooked or canned lentils, 1 cup (100 g) of bread crumbs, 1 tablespoon of tahini (if using), 1 teaspoon of curry powder (optional), and salt and pepper to taste. Pulse or blend the mixture until it forms a coarse, chunky texture—smooth enough to hold together but with some bite for a satisfying texture.
- Form the Patties: Transfer the mixture to a clean mixing bowl. Using your hands or a large spoon, divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty about 1/2–3/4 inch thick. Press gently to compact the mixture so the patties don’t fall apart during cooking. If the mixture feels too loose, add an extra tablespoon of bread crumbs to help bind it.
- Cook the Burgers – Pan-Frying Option: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease with olive oil or your preferred cooking oil. Once hot, place the patties in the pan, leaving space between each one. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid flipping too often, as this can cause them to break apart. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Cook the Burgers – Baking Option: If you prefer to bake the burgers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the patties on it. Lightly brush or spray the tops with oil for a golden finish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the patties are firm and lightly browned. Baking is a low-fat alternative that still gives a satisfying texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the cauliflower veggie burgers warm. You can enjoy them on a bun with fresh greens, tomato, and avocado, or simply as a hearty burger patty alongside a salad. Drizzle the tahini-maple sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. These burgers also make great meal-prep options as they store well in the fridge for 2–3 days or freeze beautifully for longer storage.
- Storage and Tips: To store, place cooled patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap each patty individually in parchment paper and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When reheating, bake or pan-fry to restore crispiness. For added flavor, try mixing in finely chopped herbs, spices, or roasted garlic into the batter before shaping the patties.
Notes
- For a firmer texture, allow the roasted cauliflower to cool completely before blending.
- Bread crumbs can be gluten-free or regular, depending on dietary preference.
- Lentils provide protein and binding; canned lentils are a convenient shortcut.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; curry powder adds warmth but is optional.
- The tahini-maple sauce is optional but adds a creamy, subtly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory patties.
- Patties can be pan-fried for crispiness or baked for a healthier version.
- These burgers are meal-prep friendly and can be frozen individually for future use.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Burgers
Creating the ideal cauliflower veggie burger comes down to balancing moisture and texture.
Roasting the cauliflower instead of boiling brings out its natural sweetness and reduces water content, which helps the patties hold together better.
If your mixture feels too loose, a small addition of bread crumbs can help bind the ingredients without making the burger dry.
Always allow patties to cool slightly after cooking to firm up and make handling easier.
For an extra flavor boost, try adding smoked paprika, garlic powder, or finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro directly into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions For Every Occasion
These cauliflower veggie burgers are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.
Serve them on whole-grain buns with fresh avocado, lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion for a classic burger experience.
For a lighter, low-carb option, place the patties over a bed of leafy greens or roasted vegetables.
The tahini-maple sauce enhances both baked and fried patties, adding a creamy touch without heaviness.
You can also serve them alongside grain bowls, quinoa salads, or roasted sweet potatoes for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Storage Tips To Maintain Freshness
To keep your patties fresh, store cooled burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer-term storage, wrap each patty individually in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to two months.
Reheat frozen patties in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or pan-fry them briefly to restore a crispy exterior.
Avoid microwaving for long periods, as this can make them soft and less appetizing. Proper storage ensures you always have a quick, nutritious meal on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe
1. Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is already plant-based, so it’s naturally vegan. Simply ensure that the bread crumbs you use are free from eggs or dairy if you’re strictly vegan.
2. Can I use other vegetables instead of cauliflower?
Absolutely! Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or sweet potato can be used as alternatives, though cauliflower’s mild flavor and texture make it particularly suited for holding the patties together.
3. How can I make the patties more crispy?
For extra crispiness, pan-fry the patties over medium heat with a light coating of oil. Alternatively, bake them at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) and brush lightly with oil halfway through baking.
4. Can I prepare these burgers in advance?
Yes! The patties can be shaped and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. They also freeze well; simply thaw and reheat when needed.
5. What can I serve with these burgers for a complete meal?
Pair them with whole-grain buns, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls. The tahini-maple sauce works as a dip or topping, and a side of avocado or guacamole adds healthy fats for a balanced plate.
