Vibrant Sweet Potato & Black Bean Burgers: Meal Prep Made Easy

Eating clean and vibrant doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you’re balancing a hectic schedule like 12-hour shifts. These colorful, nutrient-packed sweet potato and black bean burgers are a lifesaver for meal prep. They’re simple, satisfying, and full of flavor—and best of all, they freeze like a dream!

Why These Burgers Are Perfect for Busy Weeks

  • Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients, big flavors.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep once and enjoy all week!
  • Packed with Goodness: Sweet potatoes, black beans, and kale bring color and nutrients to your plate.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, steamed and mashed
  • 1 can (15 oz) organic black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked forbidden black rice (day-old works best)
  • 1 cup frozen kale
  • 1/2 cup riced cauliflower
  • 1/4 cup minced onion
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chipotle seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Steam the Sweet Potatoes

  • Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Steam them until fork-tender (about 10-12 minutes). Mash them in a large bowl and let cool slightly.

2. Combine the Ingredients

  • Add black beans to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mash lightly to combine, leaving some beans whole for texture.
  • Stir in cooked black rice, frozen kale, riced cauliflower, and minced onion.
  • Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, chipotle seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Shape the Patties

  • Scoop about 1/3 cup of the mixture and form into burger patties. You should get 8-9 patties, depending on the size.

4. Cook the Burgers

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook the burgers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly crisp.
  • Pro Tip: Fry just enough for the week and freeze the rest for a quick meal later.

5. Freeze for Later

  • Place uncooked patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.

Nutritional Information (Per Patty)

  • Calories: ~150
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Fat: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: ~130% DV (from sweet potatoes)
  • Iron: ~10% DV