A Nutritious and Delicious Plant-Based Family Favorite
When it comes to plant-based burgers, texture and flavor are everything. These Chickpea Oven Burgers hit all the right notes—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with rich umami flavor. They’re so delicious that even my kids get excited when they see them on the dinner menu! These burgers are easy to make, loaded with wholesome ingredients, and bake up beautifully in the oven.
The best part? They don’t require a bun to be satisfying. They’re just as good served on their own alongside sides like maple roasted Brussels sprouts, roasted vegetables, or even your favorite potato chips. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these burgers are a nourishing, protein-packed option that will keep everyone happy.
Let’s dive into the health benefits of the ingredients before we get into the full recipe!
The Nutritional Power of Chickpea Oven Burgers
These burgers are far more than just a meatless alternative. They’re packed with fiber, plant-based protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that nourish your body while keeping you full and satisfied. Here’s a breakdown of what makes each ingredient so beneficial:
Chickpeas – The Protein and Fiber Powerhouse
Chickpeas are the base of these burgers, providing a hearty texture, plant-based protein, and soluble fiber. This fiber supports digestion, balances blood sugar, and keeps you feeling full longer. Chickpeas are also rich in iron, folate, and magnesium, making them an excellent food for energy production and heart health.
Pumpkin Seeds – A Mineral-Rich Superfood
Pumpkin seeds bring a slight crunch and a boost of zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats to these burgers. Zinc is crucial for a strong immune system, while magnesium supports muscle relaxation, making these burgers a great meal after a long day of physical activity.
Flax Seeds – Omega-3 and Fiber for Gut Health
Flax seeds are an amazing source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), which are essential for brain function and reducing inflammation. They also contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Hemp Seeds – Complete Plant-Based Protein
Hemp seeds provide all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source. They’re also high in healthy fats and vitamin E, which promote glowing skin and balanced hormones.
Nutritional Yeast – The Umami Flavor and B-Vitamin Boost
Nutritional yeast gives these burgers a delicious, cheesy-like flavor while also being an excellent source of B vitamins, including B12 (if fortified). These vitamins are essential for energy, mood regulation, and red blood cell formation.
Mini Bella Mushrooms – A Natural Source of Umami
Mushrooms add depth of flavor, antioxidants, and immune-supporting compounds. They are rich in selenium, potassium, and beta-glucans, which help fight inflammation and support overall wellness.
Bell Peppers – Vitamin C for Immune Support
Bell peppers add a slight sweetness and provide a generous dose of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and aids collagen production for healthy skin.
Coconut Aminos – A Soy-Free Alternative to Soy Sauce
Coconut aminos bring a slightly sweet and salty balance to the burgers. Unlike soy sauce, they are naturally gluten-free and lower in sodium while still packing in amino acids.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Digestive and Detoxifying Benefits
Raw apple cider vinegar (with the mother) helps balance blood sugar, aids digestion, and enhances nutrient absorption. It also adds just the right amount of tangy flavor to these burgers.
Herbs & Spices – Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
The blend of thyme, oregano, garlic powder, chili powder, and red pepper flakes doesn’t just provide incredible flavor—it also offers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs and spices can help support immune function and fight oxidative stress.
How to Make Chickpea Oven Burgers
These burgers are simple to prepare, require no fancy equipment, and bake to perfection in the oven. This makes it perfect to make even in the winter months. In the summer, we also make these on our outdoor griddle.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 12 ounces mini Bella mushrooms
• 1 medium bell pepper, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
• 1/4 cup flax seeds
• 1/4 cup hemp seeds
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon white miso
• 1/4 cup coconut aminos
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (with the mother)
• 3 cups cooked or canned chickpeas
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 3 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 375°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a pan over medium heat, sauté the onion, mushrooms, and bell pepper until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor or blender, combine all ingredients except the sautéed vegetables. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms.
4. Add the Cooked Vegetables
Once cooled slightly, add the sautéed veggies to the blender and pulse a few more times until everything is evenly combined but still slightly chunky.
5. Form the Patties
Using a 4-ounce (#8 disher) scoop, portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each patty to about 1 inch thick.
6. Bake the Burgers
Bake for 40 minutes, then check for firmness. If needed, carefully flip and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Chickpea Oven Burger Patties Fresh Out Of The Oven
7. Let Cool Before Serving
Allow the burgers to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and develop the perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers are delicious with or without a bun! Here are some ways to serve them:
With a Bun:
• Toasted gluten-free or whole-grain bun
• Classic toppings: ketchup, mustard, pickles, lettuce, tomato
• Avocado slices and caramelized onions for extra flavor
Ready To Serve!
Bun-Free Options:
• On a bed of greens with tahini dressing
• Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a light, fresh meal
• Topped with roasted veggies and hummus for extra creaminess
Perfect Side Dishes:
These Chickpea Oven Burgers pair beautifully with:
• Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts (caramelized and crispy perfection!)
• Roasted root vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips)
• Homemade potato chips for a fun and crunchy contrast
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
As a busy homeschool mom with a small homestead to manage, I love meals that are nutritious, easy to make, and family-approved. My kids get genuinely excited when I make these burgers—they love the crispy edges and the slightly smoky, cheesy flavor.
Because these burgers are made with whole-food ingredients, they’re not just a tasty meal but also a powerful way to nourish our bodies. They’re packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals—all without any processed ingredients.
Plus, they store well! I often make a big batch and freeze extras for quick meals later. Simply reheat in the oven or on the stovetop, and they taste just as good as fresh. Sometimes I even will eat these for breakfast!
Final Thoughts
These Chickpea Oven Burgers are proof that plant-based meals can be flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a meatless meal option, a high-protein veggie burger, or a kid-approved dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.
Give them a try, and let me know how your family enjoys them!
Chickpea Oven Burgers
Equipment
- blender
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- 4 oz Food Disher
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 12 ounces mini Bella mushrooms
- 1 medium bell pepper roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/4 cup flax seeds
- 1/4 cup hemp seeds
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon white miso
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar with the mother
- 3 cups cooked or canned chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 375°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a pan over medium heat, sauté the onion, mushrooms, and bell pepper until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a food processor or blender, combine all ingredients except the sautéed vegetables. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms.
- Once cooled slightly, add the sautéed veggies to the blender and pulse a few more times until everything is evenly combined but still slightly chunky.
- Using a 4-ounce (#8 disher) scoop, portion out the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each patty to about 1 inch thick.
- Bake for 40 minutes, then check for firmness. If needed, carefully flip and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Remember every oven is different, monitor the burgers so they aren't undercooked or overcooked.
- Allow the burgers to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and develop the perfect texture.
Notes
