The Veggie Leggie Burger from Hard Rock Cafe features a flavorful veggie patty made with black beans, corn, and quinoa, topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, and tangy pickles, all nestled in a toasted whole wheat bun for a hearty and satisfying plant-based meal.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Grill or grill pan
- Toaster (for buns)
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- Whole wheat burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickle slices
When preparing the Veggie Leggie Burger, ensure the black beans are well-drained and rinsed to prevent excess moisture that can affect the patty's texture. Using cooked quinoa adds a nutritious, protein-rich base that helps bind the ingredients together, while the combination of corn, diced onions, and bell peppers provides a balance of sweetness and crunch. Ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper intensify the flavor profile, making the patty savory and aromatic. Opt for a flax egg to keep the recipe vegan without sacrificing binding quality. Your Veggie Leggie Burger from Hard Rock Cafe copycat menu will offer a hearty, flavorful plant-based meal that rivals the original.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash black beans with a fork or food processor until mostly smooth.
- Add cooked quinoa, corn, diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic to the beans.
- Mix in breadcrumbs, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add beaten egg (or flax egg) and 1 tablespoon olive oil; mix until well combined.
- Shape mixture into burger patties.
- Arrange patties on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush tops with remaining olive oil.
- Bake patties for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Heat a frying pan or grill pan over medium heat.
- Sear baked patties for 2–3 minutes per side for a crispy exterior.
- Toast whole wheat buns in a toaster or on the skillet/grill pan.
- Assemble burgers: place lettuce leaves, a veggie patty, tomato slices, and pickle slices on each bun.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
The Veggie Leggie Burger from Hard Rock Cafe copycat menu can be customized easily by swapping black beans with chickpeas or kidney beans if preferred. You can substitute cooked quinoa with bulgur, couscous, or brown rice to achieve a similar texture and nutritional profile. Using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats allows you to adapt the recipe for gluten sensitivity without compromising binding. If you do not have a grill or grill pan, cooking the patties in a lightly greased frying pan yields excellent results. Your choice of bun can also be adjusted to gluten-free or gluten-containing options based on dietary needs or availability.
Tips
Ensure the black beans are well mashed but retain some texture to keep the patties from becoming too dense. When shaping patties, make them slightly thicker to hold their shape during baking and searing. Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy clean-up. You can toast your whole wheat buns on the skillet or grill pan to add a subtle smoky flavor and crunch before assembling your burger.
Nutritions
The Veggie Leggie Burger from Hard Rock Cafe is a nutritious plant-based option rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. Black beans and quinoa provide a complete protein profile, supporting muscle health and satiety. Whole wheat buns contribute complex carbohydrates and additional fiber, helping to maintain steady energy levels. Your meal also includes fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes, which add antioxidants and vital micronutrients for overall wellness.
Storage
Store uncooked veggie patties wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the shaped patties on parchment-lined baking sheets until firm, then transfer to freezer bags and keep frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking and searing as instructed to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can boost the protein content by adding cooked lentils or chickpeas to the black bean mixture. For a smokier flavor, try incorporating chipotle powder instead of chili powder. Swap the whole wheat buns with gluten-free or lettuce wraps to accommodate dietary preferences. If you prefer a crispy texture without baking, pan-fry the patties in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
Allergies
The Veggie Leggie Burger contains common allergens like eggs and wheat found in the breadcrumbs and whole wheat buns, which could trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. You should also be aware of potential sensitivities to corn and black beans, as legumes can sometimes cause allergic responses. Always check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Veggie Leggie Burger from Hard Rock Cafe is celebrated for its flavorful blend of fresh vegetables, hearty legumes, and signature spices, creating a satisfying and health-conscious alternative to traditional burgers. Its balanced texture and rich taste cater to both vegetarians and meat-eaters seeking a nutritious yet indulgent meal. You'll find its unique combination of wholesome ingredients makes it a standout choice that is enjoyable and easy to customize at home. Crafting a copycat version allows you to replicate its bold flavors and wholesome goodness, delivering a gourmet experience tailored to your personal taste and dietary preferences.