Smoked Cheddar and Lentil Burgers

Savor the rich, smoky allure of these Smoked Cheddar and Lentil Burgers, a perfect fusion of hearty plant-based protein and indulgent cheesiness. Packed with protein-rich green or brown lentils, these patties are elevated with shredded smoked cheddar, aromatic spices like smoked paprika and cumin, and a touch of panko breadcrumbs for the ideal texture. The lentil mixture is skillfully crafted into golden-brown patties, pan-seared for a deliciously crisp exterior while remaining tender inside. Perfectly nestled in toasted burger buns, these vegetarian burgers come to life when topped with fresh garnishes like lettuce, tomato, or pickles. Ideal for weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues, this 45-minute recipe yields four satisfying servings, packed with bold flavors that will impress vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Green or brown lentils
• 3 cups Water
• 1 cup Smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large Egg
• 1 small Yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 4 Burger buns
• 0 Optional toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, etc.)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and allow the lentils to cool slightly.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked lentils with a fork or potato masher. Leave some texture for a heartier bite.

Step 3

Add the shredded smoked cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, egg, diced onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the mashed lentils. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Place the patties on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 5

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the lentil patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through.

Step 6

Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired. Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a bun and adding your preferred toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onion.

Step 7

Serve immediately and enjoy your smoked cheddar and lentil burgers!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1461.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1604.9

Total Fat 65.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 28.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.3g
Cholesterol 339.5mg	0%
Sodium 4295.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 179.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.3g	0%
Total Sugars 20.3g
Protein 74.6g	0%

Vitamin D 77.8IU	0%
Calcium 1140.0mg	0%
Iron 17.4mg	0%
Potassium 1356.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.7%

Protein: 18.6%

Carbs: 44.7%