There’s a certain thrill that comes with crafting a vibrant, homemade meal, and these Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers promise just that! I remember the excitement when I discovered how beautifully these ingredients come together—earthy beets, creamy sweet potatoes, and nutty quinoa create a delightful patty that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a fun meal prep option, they beautifully bridge the gap between comfort food and healthy eating.
After a long week of fast food runs, I craved something hearty yet wholesome, and this recipe quickly became my go-to. Not only are these burgers a feast for the eyes with their vibrant colors, but they also offer a unique flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, they’re versatile—you can serve them on a bun, atop a bed of greens, or even enjoy them as a snack with that spicy pumpkin aioli. Let’s dive in and whip up a batch that will bring the joy of home cooking back into your kitchen!
Why are Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: These burgers burst with a unique combination of sweet and earthy flavors from roasted beets and sweet potatoes.
Nutrient-Packed: Each bite is filled with protein and fiber, making them a filling option for any meal.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re accessible even for novice cooks.
Customizable: Dress them up with your favorite toppings or serve them on a salad for a fresh twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering; everyone will love these!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch this week and enjoy delicious leftovers for easy lunches or dinners.
Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers Ingredients
Unlock the vibrant flavors of homemade burgers with these delightful ingredients!
For the Burger Patties
• Cooked quinoa – 3/4 cup adds a nutty flavor and healthy protein to your burger.
• Sweet potatoes – 2 medium (about 1 cup mashed) provide natural sweetness and creaminess.
• Cooked beets – 3 large (around 8 oz) lend a beautiful color and earthy taste.
• Small onion – Roughly chopped for a savory depth that enhances every bite.
• Minced garlic – 2 TBS brings a punch of flavor and elevates the overall taste.
• Chili powder – 1 1/2 tsp introduces a hint of warmth and spiciness to the mix.
• Cumin – 1 1/2 tsp adds a warm, earthy aroma that complements the other flavors.
• Paprika – 1/2 tsp for a subtle smoky sweetness that enhances the burger’s profile.
• Salt – 1/2 tsp (or to taste) is essential for enhancing the natural flavors.
• Black pepper – 1/2 tsp for a dash of spiciness that lifts the taste profile.
• Quick oats – 1/3 cup acts as a binder, giving structure without compromising flavor.
For Cooking
• High heat oil – Choose options like avocado oil for a healthy cooking medium.
For the Spicy Pumpkin Aioli
• Sriracha or hot sauce – 1 TBS adds the perfect kick to your aioli sauce.
• Canned pumpkin puree – 3 TBS provides a creamy base and enhances the autumnal flavor.
• Mayo (vegan or regular) – 3 TBS adds richness and creaminess to your dip.
For Toppings
• Buns – Choose your favorite type, whether whole grain or gluten-free, for the perfect base.
• Salad greens – Opt for fresh greens to add a crunchy contrast and freshness.
• Avocado – Sliced for creaminess and healthy fats, enhancing every burger.
• Red onion – Thinly sliced for a tangy bite that complements the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers
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Prepare quinoa: Begin by cooking quinoa according to the package instructions until fluffy and tender. This nutty base will add both flavor and nutrition to your burgers.
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Cook sweet potatoes: Scrub the sweet potatoes; poke holes all over them and microwave on high until slightly undercooked or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes until soft. Once cooked, remove the skin, chop them roughly, and add to your blender.
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Add beets: Cut the cooked beets into quarters and pile them onto the sweet potatoes in the blender. These earthy gems will give your burgers their vibrant color and flavor!
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Mix in veggies and spices: Add the roughly chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the blender. Blend the mixture carefully, keeping some texture for the perfect patty experience.
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Combine ingredients: Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl, then gently mix in your cooked quinoa and quick oats. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.
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Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight to help the flavors meld together and facilitate easier patty shaping.
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Form patties: Scoop about 1/2 cup of the chilled mixture and shape it into thick patties, approximately 3/4″ thick. This thickness allows for a nice golden crust when cooked!
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Heat the skillet: Place a skillet on medium heat and add a drizzle of high heat oil. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them.
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Cook patties: Cook each burger for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden crust. For even cooking, lower the heat slightly and cook for an additional couple of minutes.
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Let them rest: Once cooked, allow the patties to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to set their shape and makes them easier to serve.
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Prepare the aioli: In a separate bowl, mix together the sriracha, pumpkin puree, and mayo. This creamy, spicy sauce will elevate your burgers to new heights!
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Serve and enjoy: Serve the quinoa sweet potato beet burgers on your choice of buns, generously topped with spicy pumpkin aioli, avocado, or fresh salad greens for an added crunch.
Optional: Serve with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers
Chill Time Matters: Make sure to chill your mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps the patties hold their shape better during cooking.
Don’t Over-Blend: Pulse blend just until combined; leaving some texture will give your burgers a delightful bite. Avoid a mushy consistency!
Uniform Patties: Aim for even thickness when shaping patties. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that perfect golden crust.
Watch the Heat: Cooking on medium heat gives you a nice crust without burning! If they cook too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to switch up toppings! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, pickles, or your favorite cheese. The Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers can handle any twist!
How to Store and Freeze Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers
Fridge: Store cooked quinoa sweet potato beet burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the aioli separate to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties individually on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen patties overnight in the fridge, then pan-fry on medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through.
Tips: Always ensure patties are fully cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to soggy burgers.
What to Serve with Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers?
Creating a complete meal around these vibrant burgers elevates your dining experience into something truly special.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These crunchy fries echo the sweet flavors in the burgers, creating a lovely harmony on your plate. The contrast in textures will add a delightful crunch that keeps each bite exciting.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw brings out the rich flavors of the burgers. The crispness of the veggies pairs beautifully with the softness of the patties, making every bite refreshing.
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Avocado Salad: A simple salad of fresh avocado, cherry tomatoes, and lime creates a colorful side that’s both creamy and refreshing. Its brightness cuts through the hearty burger for a well-rounded meal.
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Pickled Red Onions: These zesty and colorful onions add a punchy contrast that enhances the burger’s flavors. Their tanginess brightens each bite, making for a flavorful experience.
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Grilled Veggies: Charred summer vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant complement the earthy notes in the burgers. Their natural sweetness and smoky hints will add an extra depth to your meal.
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Spicy Pumpkin Soup: Kick off the meal with a warm bowl of spicy pumpkin soup. It ties in seamlessly with the flavors of the aioli while providing a comforting start to your dining experience.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: For drinks, opt for a refreshing iced tea or lemonade. Their crisp and slightly sweet profiles cleanse the palate, making them the perfect pairing for these savory burgers.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a rich, creamy chocolate mousse. Made with avocado, this dessert is indulgent yet healthy, keeping in tune with the wholesome theme of your meal.
Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful burgers your own with these fun variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute quick oats with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats for a gluten-friendly option.
- Spicy Kick: Add more sriracha or a chopped jalapeño into the mixture for an extra punch of heat. This will turn up the flavor dial!
- Herb-Infused: Include fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of freshness that brightens every bite.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to add a creamy, savory layer to your patties.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, more smoky taste. It’s a subtle switch that makes a big difference!
- Sweet Touch: Blend in a tablespoon of maple syrup or a sprinkle of brown sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and beets.
- Bean Boost: Add black beans or chickpeas for an added protein punch and extra texture in the burgers. They will be both hearty and filling!
- Crispy Texture: Coat the patties lightly in breadcrumbs before cooking for a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
Make Ahead Options
These Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by blending the sweet potatoes, beets, onions, garlic, and spices, then chilling in the fridge. By letting the flavors meld overnight, you’ll create an even tastier patty. Shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat your skillet and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This prep-ahead strategy means you’ll have delicious, homemade burgers ready to go, saving you precious time on busy weeknights without sacrificing quality!
Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right sweet potatoes for my burgers?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots or signs of sprouting. The skins should be a vibrant orange-brown. Ideally, choose medium-sized ones for easier peeling and mashing.
What is the best way to store leftover Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers?
To store any leftovers, place the cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the aioli sauce to keep it fresh for longer. This way, you’ll have delicious ready-to-eat meals after a busy day!
Can I freeze the burger patties, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze them, shape uncooked patties and lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the patties individually for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What if my beet burgers keep falling apart during cooking?
Very commonly, under-mixing or insufficient chilling can be the culprits. Ensure that your mixture is thoroughly combined but still retains some texture. Also, chilling the mixture for at least 30 minutes allows it to firm up, making it easier to shape into patties.
Are Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets?
Yes, they are! This recipe is naturally plant-based, as it doesn’t include any meat, dairy, or animal products. If you use vegan mayo in the aioli, they are perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike. Always check your specific ingredients for any allergy concerns as well!
How can I enhance the flavor of my Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers?
A great way to elevate the flavor is by experimenting with spices in the mixture. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a unique twist or try incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Additionally, topping your burgers with pickled onions or spicy jalapeños can bring a delightful burst of flavor!
Savory Quinoa Sweet Potato Beet Burgers for a Flavor Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare quinoa: Cook quinoa according to package instructions until fluffy and tender.
- Cook sweet potatoes: Scrub, poke holes, and microwave for 5-10 minutes, or bake at 400°F for 25 minutes until soft.
- Add beets: Cut cooked beets into quarters and add them to the blender with sweet potatoes.
- Mix in veggies and spices: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the blender and blend carefully.
- Combine ingredients: Transfer mixture to a bowl, and mix in cooked quinoa and quick oats.
- Chill the mixture: Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Form patties: Shape the chilled mixture into thick patties, approximately 3/4" thick.
- Heat the skillet: Drizzle high heat oil in a skillet on medium heat.
- Cook patties: Cook each burger for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
- Let them rest: Allow the patties to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prepare the aioli: Mix sriracha, pumpkin puree, and mayo in a separate bowl.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the burgers on buns topped with spicy pumpkin aioli, avocado, and salad greens.