18 Vegan Burger Recipes Perfect for Grilling Season

Posted on May 30, 2019 by Elaine Song

Long gone are the days when mouthwatering, flavour-packed BBQ was only reserved for carnivores. With plant-based cuisine taking the helm of the foodie world, there are more “beyond meat” options than ever for vegans that are perfect for the grill. Whether your cravings run more traditional for barbecue sauce and pulled pork or you have an appetite for adventurous flavour pairings, these vegan burger recipes are sure to keep you satisfied all grilling season long.

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Crunchy Sunshine Burger

Plant-based eating doesn’t have to be complicated. This vegan burger recipe only calls for a handful of ingredients — namely sunflower seeds, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/25-beautiful-recipes-you-cant-beet" rel="noopener" target="_blank">beets </a> and brown rice or quinoa — to make for easy and delicious BBQ. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crunchy-sunshine-burger/14718/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Crunchy Sunshine Burger</a>
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Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce

If you’ve ever doubted vegan cooking, you’ve clearly never had a creamy maple tahini sauce! Whether you keep this as a go-to condiment or use it all to smother your <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/delicious-gluten-free-comfort-food-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">gluten-free</a> falafel sliders, we won’t judge either way. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/baked-falafel-sliders-with-tabbouleh-and-maple-tahini-sauce-35387/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce</a>
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BBQ Tempeh Banh Mi Sandwich with Pickled Carrots and Cabbage

The allure of the traditional Vietnamese banh mi is thanks to the well-balanced combination of sweet in the sauce and the briny tang of pickled vegetables. This vegan tempeh version keeps things bright, crisp and spicy with the help of fresh cucumber and jalapenos. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/bbq-tempeh-banh-mi-sandwich-with-pickled-carrots-and-cabbage-36427/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">BBQ Tempeh Banh Mi Sandwich with Pickled Carrots and Cabbage</a>
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Cashew Mushroom Slider

When you’re craving a burger that’s meaty enough to be satisfying and textured enough to be pleasing, this is the vegan recipe for you! The cashew and mushroom mixture help give these patties (created by <a href="https://lovechildorganics.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love Child Organics</a> founder Leah Garrad-Cole) the bite you desire to keep going back, mini burger after mini burger. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cashew-mushroom-sliders/21916/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Cashew Mushroom Slider</a>
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Vegan Lentil Burger

Passing on meat-based BBQ doesn’t mean passing on protein. These vegan burgers are not only <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/high-protein-vegetarian-meals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rich in protein</a> and iron, but are also low-fat to boot. The added seasoning of cumin gives it a warm earthy flavour that’s further enhanced by the grill. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-lentil-burgers/20343/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Lentil Burger</a>
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Vegan Lentil Walnut Burgers with Cashew Pesto

It’s so nice we eat it twice! We took this patty and put it on its head, or rather on the top and bottom, because when it's this moist and delicious you don’t need a bread bun. It also makes for a fantastic high-fibre and healthy option, so you can slather on extra cashew pesto sauce guilt-free. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-lentil-walnut-burger-with-cashew-pesto-37509/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vegan Lentil Walnut Burgers with Cashew Pesto</a>
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The Vegan Big Mac

Now when you hear the golden arches calling you don’t need to answer. This vegan-friendly Big Mac will not only settle your McD’s cravings, but you can nom away guilt-free on this much healthier, fresher option. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/the-vegan-big-mac-35168/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Vegan Big Mac</a>
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Curried Chickpea Sloppy Joe Sliders

Now here's an unconventional take on the sloppy joe that we can get behind: a plant-based curried chickpea filling (seasoned with so many flavourful spices), topped with a tangy pineapple jam and sandwiched between mini sesame buns. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-sloppy-joe-sliders/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Curried Chickpea Sloppy Joe Sliders</a>
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Buddha Burger Patty

Inspired by the popular macro bowls, now more famously known as <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/healthy-buddha-bowl-with-creamy-tahini-dressing-35814/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Buddha bowls</a>, this recipe makes for a hearty and flavourful burger alternative. With a savoury blend of cumin, curry, ginger, turmeric and chili flakes, these filling patties will become your go-to for the grill. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/buddah-patty/12618/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Buddha Burger Patty</a>
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Vegan Corn Zucchini Fritters with Jalapeno Cream

If you’ve never used a corn fritter as a burger patty, have you even lived? Enjoy this vegan version atop a bun or in a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/fresh-delicious-lettuce-wraps/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">lettuce wrap</a> —just make sure you don’t forget a generous dollop of that jalapeno cream! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/vegan-corn-zucchini-fritters-with-jalapeno-cream-36680/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vegan Corn Zucchini Fritters with Jalapeno Cream</a>
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Vegan Pulled Pork Sliders

Meat or veggie, have you ever come across a slider you didn’t like? Well, consider this one a big win for the vegans. <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/plant-based-recipes-for-beginners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Plant-based eaters</a> can enjoy these mighty and meaty burger bites thanks to the slow-roasted portobello mushrooms flavoured by molasses and spices. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-pulled-pork-sliders/20293/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Pulled Pork Sliders</a>
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Black Bean Rainbow Burger

Packed with plant-based proteins, veggies and spices, this vegan recipe not only delivers on flavour, but also comes chock-full of fibre and phytonutrients. Topped with the salty and spicy combo of adobo sauce, this burger is hard for anyone to resist. Swap out the honey for maple syrup to keep this burger on the vegan side. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/black-bean-rainbow-burger/14720/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Black Bean Rainbow Burger</a>
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Spicy Vegan Sloppy Joe

Spicy, smoky and, yes, oh so sloppy — you won’t be missing the meat in this sloppy joe. Mushrooms, walnuts and peppers make for a meaty (vegan!) patty that’s full of flavour, but won’t make you feel overfed. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-vegan-sloppy-joes/20340/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Spicy Vegan Sloppy Joe</a>
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Black Bean Veggie Burger

Anna Olson brings the Southwest style to the grill with her protein-packed black bean and quinoa burger patties. With simple ingredients, it makes for a quick and easy meal for those long summer nights. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/black-bean-veggie-burger/13643" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Black Bean Veggie Burger</a>
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Tofu Patties with Chili Lime Pineapple

Meatless Mondays have never been more packed with tropical flavour! The addition of a spicy and zesty glazed pineapple turns a simple tofu patty into a juicy, mouthwatering burger. To keep the dish vegan-friendly, simply forego the cheese (or opt for a vegan variety). Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tofu-patties-with-chili-lime-pineapple/14137/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Tofu Patties with Chili Lime Pineapple</a>
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Lentil Burger

Perfect for a family dinner with the kids, these vegan burgers are a great way to include the little ones in the kitchen. Having them shape their own patties makes them proud to eat their meal, which is made even better thanks to the high levels of folic acid in this recipe. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/bbq/blog/lentil-burgers-from-the-hot-plate-2262/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Lentil Burger</a>
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Oh My Chickpea Goodness Burger

Here comes a vegan hamburger that’s perfect for playful appetites. Between the tahini and maple syrup (to substitute for honey), and lemon and cumin, these chickpea and sweet potato patties will have you craving this recipe over and over again. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/oh-my-chickpea-goodness-burger/14719/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Oh My Chickpea Goodness Burger</a>
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Spice Goddess' Vegan Burger

If anyone knows how to spice up a regular old hamburger, it’s the <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/spice-goddess/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Spice Goddess</a>. Bal Arneson’s take on this vegan burger mixes refried beans and chickpea flour to deliver big flavour for a fully satisfying meal. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-burgers/11343/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Spice Goddess' Vegan Burger</a> For more meatless burger inspiration, check out our <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-veggie-burger-recipes" rel="noopener" target="_blank">20 Best Veggie Burger Recipes</a>
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