Hey there, my friend 👋. If you’re looking for a burger that’s different from the usual beef or chicken, you’re in for a treat. This wild rice burger is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with a nutty, earthy flavor.
And guess what? It holds together beautifully, so you won’t be dealing with a crumbly mess. Stick with me, and I’ll show you how to make it perfect.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Medium pot with lid
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Baking sheet (optional, for baking instead of frying)
Important Info
- Servings: 4 burger patties
- Estimated Cost: Making this recipe will cost about $5-$7
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 210
- Cook Method: Frying or Baking
- Season: Anytime
- Courses: Main Course, Lunch, Dinner
- Cuisine: American-inspired
- Diets: Vegetarian, LowFatDiet
How to Make Wild Rice Burgers
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 1 cup cooked wild rice (cooled)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup mashed beans (any cooked beans)
- 2 tablespoons flour (for binding)
- 2 tablespoons oil (for frying)
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Wild Rice | Brown Rice or Quinoa |
| Breadcrumbs | Crushed Crackers or Oats |
| Egg | 1 tablespoon Flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp Water (vegan option) |
| Cheese | Nutritional Yeast (for a dairy-free option) |
| Mashed Beans | Mashed Sweet Potato |
Instructions
- Cook the wild rice if you haven’t already. Let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the wild rice, mashed beans, and breadcrumbs.
- Add the grated cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix in the flour and beaten egg to bind everything together.
- Use your hands to shape the mixture into four even-sized patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- If you prefer baking, place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve warm with your favorite burger buns and toppings.
Helpful Tips
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Let the patties rest in the fridge for 10 minutes before cooking to help them firm up.
- Don’t press down on the patties while frying – this helps keep them moist inside.
- Want an extra crispy crust? Roll the patties in a bit of extra breadcrumbs before frying.
- Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.
What to Serve with Wild Rice Burgers
These burgers are great with crispy fries, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. If you want something lighter, a side salad with a tangy dressing is a perfect match.
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
You can serve these burgers on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauces. If you’re skipping the bread, wrap the patty in lettuce leaves or eat it with a side of grilled veggies.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
This is a great meal-prep recipe for busy days. It also works well for backyard BBQs, casual dinners, and vegetarian-friendly gatherings. If you’re looking for a protein-packed Meatless Monday option, this is it.
Storage
Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)
- If you’re serving these later in the day, keep them covered on a plate at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Refrigeration
- Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Freezing
- For longer storage, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make wild rice burgers without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or mashed banana as a binder.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture isn’t too wet. Add more breadcrumbs or flour if needed. Chilling the patties before cooking also helps.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and egg with flaxseed or chia egg to make it fully plant-based.
What kind of beans work best for this recipe?
Black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas all work well. They add texture and help bind the patties.
Can I air-fry these burgers?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. This gives them a crispy exterior with less oil.