Black Bean Smash
The Black Bean Smash proves that vegetarian burgers can be just as bold and satisfying as their beef counterparts. Crafted with a seasoned black bean patty, fresh toppings, and a smoky chipotle mayo, it’s a flavorful fusion of protein, spice, and texture that even meat lovers appreciate.
Unlike many veggie burgers that taste dry or grainy, the Black Bean Smash offers depth, richness, and that unmistakable Smashburger sizzle. It’s a tribute to how creative plant-based dining can be — hearty, wholesome, and absolutely crave-worthy.
Price: $9.69 | 670 Cal
Price Information💵
Item | In-Store Price (USD) | Combo Meal (USD) | Delivery Range* |
Black Bean Smash | $9.69 | $13.49 – $13.99 | $14.89 – $15.49 |
- *Delivery fees and taxes vary slightly by platform.
- Combos include fries and a drink; some Denver outlets also offer an “Avocado Club” variant featuring guacamole and pepper-jack cheese.
Background
The Black Bean Smash was introduced to broaden Smashburger’s appeal beyond traditional beef lovers. First launched in Colorado in 2013 as a limited-time vegetarian test, it became a permanent menu item after strong fan demand.
What sets it apart is Smashburger’s refusal to use heavily processed plant proteins. Instead, the black bean patty is made with real beans, corn, peppers, and grains — seared just like beef patties for that signature Smashburger crust. It’s a wholesome, hearty burger with genuine texture and a smoky Southwestern personality.
Ingredients & Flavor Profile
Each component of the Black Bean Smash plays a key role in balancing flavor, spice, and freshness:
- Black bean patty, made with black beans, corn, bell peppers, rice, and spices.
- Pepper-jack cheese, creamy and spicy.
- Chipotle mayo, smoky and tangy.
- Lettuce and tomato, adding crispness.
- Fresh avocado or guacamole (available in some regions).
- Butter-toasted bun, golden brown and soft.
The flavor is complex: earthy from the beans, mildly spicy from the pepper-jack, and creamy from the mayo. The patty’s crispy sear contrasts beautifully with its soft, flavorful core.
Calories & Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 670 |
Protein | 27 g |
Total Fat | 38 g |
Saturated Fat | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 54 g |
Sugars | 6 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Cholesterol | 55 mg |
Sodium | 1,210 mg |
The Black Bean Smash delivers balanced nutrition with high fiber, moderate calories, and plant-based protein — perfect for flexitarians or anyone seeking a lighter but flavorful meal.
Allergen & Dietary Information
Allergen | Present |
Milk | ✅ |
Wheat | ✅ |
Soy | ✅ |
Egg | ✅ |
Sesame | Possible |
Peanuts | ❌ |
Tree Nuts | ❌ |
Fish | ❌ |
Shellfish | ❌ |
Contains milk, soy, egg, and gluten. Gluten-free buns and dairy-free customizations (omit cheese or chipotle mayo) are available.
Taste & Texture Review
The Black Bean Smash is one of the most satisfying vegetarian burgers on any fast-casual menu. The patty offers a crisp outer sear and a soft, seasoned interior that feels hearty rather than mushy. Each bite reveals earthy beans, sweet corn, and mild chili warmth.
The chipotle mayo adds gentle heat, while the cheese creates a luscious melt that ties the textures together. Combined with the toasted bun, it tastes rich and layered — you won’t miss the meat.
Unlike frozen veggie patties, this one feels freshly made, with distinct bean texture and visible ingredients. It’s flavorful, filling, and consistent across every location.
Chef’s Notes & Culinary Insight 👨🍳
Smashburger chefs emphasize that the Black Bean Smash uses a handcrafted cooking process, not industrial pre-pressing. The patties are formed fresh, then cooked on the same buttered griddle used for beef — giving them that distinctive crust while staying vegetarian-friendly.
The key lies in heat management: cooking the patty long enough to crisp without drying it. The seasoning blend includes cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic, designed to evoke Southwestern depth rather than typical bland veggie-burger spice.
This attention to detail turns what could have been an afterthought into a signature vegetarian option.
Popular Combos & Pairings
The Black Bean Smash pairs best with fresh, cooling, or subtly sweet sides to complement its smoky flavor:
- Sweet Potato Fries – enhance the burger’s natural sweetness.
- Garden Salad – crisp greens add lightness.
- Mango or Vanilla Shake – contrasts spice with creaminess.
Recommended Combo (“Southwest Balance Trio”)
- Black Bean Smash
- Sweet Potato Fries
- Vanilla Shake
Variations:
- Add Guacamole for richness (+ $1.50).
- Swap Cheese to Swiss or cheddar for milder flavor.
- Make it Vegan: remove cheese and mayo; add avocado.
Customer Opinions & Ratings ⭐
The Black Bean Smash consistently earns praise from both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike:
- Google Reviews (Denver): 4.8 average — “The best veggie burger I’ve had anywhere.”
- Reddit: “You can actually taste real beans, not fake meat. Big win.”
- TripAdvisor: “Crispy, flavorful, and doesn’t fall apart — a perfect balance.”
- Quora: “Even as a beef lover, I order the Black Bean Smash when I want something lighter.”
Its biggest compliments come from omnivores, which says everything about its appeal. Many note that it’s flavorful enough to stand beside the chain’s beef options without compromise.
Flavor Science & Nutrition Insight
Black beans naturally contain glutamic acid — a compound that enhances umami, giving the burger a savory flavor similar to meat. Combined with caramelization during the smashing process, this creates rich, smoky notes that mimic grilled beef’s depth.
The fiber and plant protein content promote satiety while keeping calories moderate. This makes the Black Bean Smash a nutritionally balanced option — satisfying for lunch without post-meal heaviness.
It’s also a low-cholesterol choice that still delivers indulgent flavor thanks to cheese and sauce layering.
Taste Comparison: Beef vs. Bean
When compared with the classic beef patties, the Black Bean Smash offers a gentler texture and a sweeter, smokier flavor. It lacks the grease of red meat but compensates with layers of spice, grain texture, and creamy condiments.
For diners exploring flexitarian diets, it bridges comfort food and conscious eating — proving that flavor doesn’t have to be sacrificed for plant-based meals.
Final Thoughts
The Black Bean Smash isn’t just a vegetarian alternative — it’s a flavor-forward experience on its own. From its crispy, smoky crust to the creamy chipotle mayo and cheese, it’s one of Smashburger’s most thoughtfully designed builds.
It shows that a great burger is about balance, not ingredients. Whether you’re vegetarian, flexitarian, or just curious, this burger delivers comfort and creativity in equal measure.
If you want bold taste with a lighter footprint, the Black Bean Smash is your go-to — flavorful, hearty, and refreshingly different.
