Let’s be honest, the weeknight veggie burger can sometimes fall into a rut. But what if I told you that in just 20 minutes, you could transform a simple patty into a gourmet experience? The secret isn’t in a complicated burger recipe; it’s all in the topping! I’ve created three incredibly easy, flavor-packed toppers that will completely change your burger game. From a tangy and rich ketchup upgrade to a surprising smoky berry mash, these recipes are your new secret weapon for an unforgettable, lightning-fast meal.
Ingredients
• For the Burgers
• 6 refrigerated or frozen desired meatless burger patties
• 6 whole wheat hamburger buns, split
• Ultra Ketchup Topper
• 1/2 cup / 120 ml ketchup
• 3 tablespoons / 45 ml chopped oil-packed dried tomato
• 2 teaspoons / 10 ml packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons / 10 ml red wine vinegar
• 1 dash salt
• 1 dash ground black pepper
• Smoky Berry Topper
• 3/4 cup / 115 g fresh blueberries and/or raspberries
• 2 tablespoons / 30 ml bacon-flavor vegetable protein bits
• 2 tablespoons / 30 ml cider vinegar
• Double Pepper Topper
• 3/4 cup / 135 g chopped roasted red sweet peppers
• 1 tablespoon / 15 ml adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1 tablespoon / 15 ml sherry vinegar
• 1 teaspoon / 5 ml sugar
Instructions
1. First, prepare your chosen topper. For the Ultra Ketchup or Double Pepper Topper, simply combine all the respective in a small bowl. For the Smoky Berry Topper, mash the berries with a fork before stirring in the remaining .
2. Heat the meatless patties according to package directions. While they cook, toast the split hamburger buns until lightly golden and crisp.
3. Assemble your burgers. Place a hot patty on each toasted bun, spoon your homemade topper generously over the top, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
• PER SERVING with Ultra Ketchup Topper: 220 cal., 3 g total fat (0 g sat. fat), 0 mg chol., 798 mg sodium, 36 g carb., 7 g fiber, 18 g pro.
• PER SERVING with Smoky Berry Topper: 203 cal., 2 g total fat (0 g sat. fat), 0 mg chol., 534 mg sodium, 30 g carb., 7 g fiber, 18 g pro.
• PER SERVING with Double Pepper Topper: 194 cal., 2 g total fat (0 g sat. fat), 0 mg chol., 503 mg sodium, 30 g carb., 7 g fiber, 17 g pro.
Pro Tips
• The Ultra Ketchup Topper is fantastic on roasted onion patties, especially when you add a few slices of fresh tomato.
• Pair the sweet and savory Smoky Berry Topper with roasted garlic patties and a handful of peppery watercress.
• For the Double Pepper Topper, use grilled vegetable patties and add some shredded yellow summer squash for a delightful texture contrast.
• Make the toppers up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for an even faster meal assembly.
• Always toast your buns! This simple step adds great texture and prevents the bun from becoming soggy from the sauce.
FAQ
Q: What can I use instead of bacon-flavor bits for the Smoky Berry Topper
A: For a similar smoky and savory flavor, you can substitute the bacon-flavor bits with a half teaspoon of smoked paprika and a tablespoon of toasted, chopped pecans. Finely chopped smoked tofu or tempeh also works well as a plant-based alternative.
Q: How can I add more protein to these veggie burgers
A: To boost the protein content, start by choosing a high-protein patty made from lentils, black beans, or soy. You can also add a slice of plant-based cheese, a spread of hummus, or even some crispy baked tofu on top of your patty.
Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free
A: To make this recipe completely gluten-free, ensure you are using certified gluten-free veggie burger patties and gluten-free hamburger buns. It’s also important to verify that your brand of bacon-flavor vegetable protein bits is gluten-free, as some may contain wheat.
Q: Can I make these veggie burger toppers ahead of time
A: Yes, absolutely! All three toppers can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes for an even faster and more convenient weeknight meal.
