Low-Fat Burgers
A flavorful, low-fat burger option combining beans and lean beef, perfect for health-conscious eaters craving a hearty, vegetarian-inspired patty with fresh toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the mashed beans, chopped celery, chopped carrot, chopped onion, softened bread slices, lean ground beef, salt, and pepper thoroughly.
- Form the mixture into 6 or 8 patties.
- Spray a frypan with nonstick spray or prepare the grill.
- Cook the patties over medium heat or on the grill until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve the patties in hamburger buns with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, substitute the lean ground beef with turkey or chicken. If you prefer a vegetarian burger, skip the meat entirely and add more mashed beans or grains like quinoa. To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cumin or smoked paprika. Make sure to let the patties rest for a few minutes before cooking to help them hold together better.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these low-fat burgers on whole wheat buns with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries or a crunchy salad for a complete meal. For a twist, try serving with a dollop of tzatziki or hummus. These burgers also go well with the hearty flavors of Hearty Hodge Podge Stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but this may change the texture slightly. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Burgers contains roughly 318 calories, with 12g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (144% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 766mg per serving (33% 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 patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for quicker meal preparation. Just be sure to separate them with parchment paper if stacking in the fridge.
What can I use instead of whole wheat bread?
If you don't have whole wheat bread, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as gluten-free bread or even rolled oats as a binder. Just adjust the moisture accordingly by adding a bit of water or vegetable broth if needed.
Can I grill these burgers instead of frying?
Absolutely! Grilling these low-fat burgers adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just make sure your grill is well-preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Cook them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, similar to frying.
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).