Bran Burgers
Bran Burgers combine hearty ground beef with spicy chili bean topping and melted cheddar, offering a flavorful, satisfying meal perfect for casual dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Lightly oil a baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, egg, salt, garlic, ketchup, and 1/2 cup of cracker crumbs.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal balls.
- Flatten each ball into a 5-inch circle and turn up the edges to form a 1-inch rim.
- Bake the meat shells for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine beans, brown sugar, mustard, mayonnaise, green chilies, cumin seeds, and chili powder to make the topping.
- Spoon the bean mixture into the baked meat shells using a slotted spoon.
- Sprinkle with French onions.
- Place strips of cheddar cheese over the onions.
- Bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese melts and topping is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique flavor, try adding some smoked paprika or diced jalapeños to the bean topping. If you want to make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans. You can also use store-bought burger buns instead of making meat shells for a quicker option. Pair these burgers with a refreshing side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Bran Burgers with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a zesty coleslaw or even a simple tomato and cucumber salad. For a fun twist, consider serving them on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the cheese and meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bran Burgers contains roughly 46 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 575mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and form the shells ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled before cooking.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to cheddar, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick. You could also use a dairy-free cheese if you're following a vegan diet. Just ensure it melts well for the best results.
Are there any low-carb options for this recipe?
Absolutely! Instead of the meat shells, you can use large portobello mushrooms or zucchini boats as a base. This will significantly lower the carb count while still providing a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of these Bran Burgers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).