15 Vegan Burgers That Actually Taste Good (And 8 That Totally Don’t)

Not all vegan burgers are created equal. Some taste like beefy perfection or are loaded with real veggie goodness. Others? Dry, weirdly textured, or flavorless hockey pucks. Here’s your ultimate breakdown—15 plant-based patties that actually satisfy, and 8 that are better left on the shelf.

1. Beyond Burger (Beyond Meat)

With its juicy, meaty texture, the Beyond Burger stands out in the world of vegan patties. Its umami flavor makes it a popular choice among both vegans and meat-eaters. Grilling it brings out the best in its flavor profile.

This burger is crafted to mimic beef, offering a similar grilling experience to traditional meat patties. Many have praised its likeness to beef. Whether pan-seared or barbecued, the Beyond Burger delivers satisfaction.

Beyond Meat has focused on creating a plant-based burger that can please even the most discerning palate. It’s a top pick for vegan-friendly barbecues.

2. Impossible Burger (Impossible Foods)

The Impossible Burger is renowned for its incredible texture and flavor. Using a soy-based heme, it achieves an unmatched beef-like taste. Many meat-eaters have been pleasantly fooled by its realistic nature.

This burger has revolutionized the vegan market with its innovative approach. Impossible Foods has set the bar high, creating a patty that’s both delicious and convincing.

Whether served in a classic burger bun or as part of a gourmet dish, the Impossible Burger excels. It’s a favorite for those seeking a convincing meat alternative without compromise.

3. Field Roast Chef’s Signature Burger

Field Roast Chef’s Signature Burger boasts deep, savory flavors derived from barley, mushrooms, and carrots. This burger offers a rich taste experience without pretending to be beef.

The blend of ingredients gives it a satisfying, hearty texture. Field Roast has crafted a unique patty that’s both flavorful and fulfilling.

For those seeking a burger that stands out from the typical plant-based offerings, this is an excellent choice. It provides a gourmet experience with every bite.

4. Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Burger

The Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Burger is thick, chewy, and meaty, with a slightly smoky edge. It’s a hidden gem in the freezer aisle, surprising many with its excellent taste.

Perfect for grilling, this burger brings a satisfying texture and flavor to the table. Gardein has created a patty that’s approachable yet impressive.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner, this burger is a reliable choice. Its smoky undertones add an extra layer of enjoyment.

5. Dr. Praeger’s Perfect Burger

Dr. Praeger’s Perfect Burger offers more protein than their typical veggie patties, making it a more satisfying option. It has a good flavor and achieves a great sear, enhancing its appeal.

While it doesn’t aim to mimic beef entirely, it provides a delightful plant-based experience. Dr. Praeger’s have crafted a burger that meets the needs of those seeking both taste and nutrition.

This burger stands out for its balanced flavor and texture, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

6. Sweet Earth Awesome Burger

The Sweet Earth Awesome Burger is soy-based, offering a firm bite with bold seasoning. It pairs beautifully with classic burger toppings like pickles and mustard.

This burger provides a satisfying eating experience without attempting to imitate meat too closely. Its unique taste comes from its well-thought-out seasoning.

Ideal for those who appreciate a robustly flavored patty, Sweet Earth delivers a delicious option in the plant-based market. It’s a must-try for adventurous food lovers.

7. MorningStar Farms Incogmeato Burger

MorningStar Farms Incogmeato Burger is a solid beef-style patty that grills well and holds up in sandwiches. Its kid-approved taste makes it a family favorite.

Offering a convincing beef-like experience, this burger appeals to both vegans and non-vegans alike. It’s ideal for those who enjoy traditional burger flavors.

MorningStar Farms has succeeded in creating a patty that satisfies cravings for a meaty texture. It’s perfect for family meals or quick lunches.

8. Lightlife Plant-Based Burger

Lightlife Plant-Based Burger is crafted with simple ingredients, avoiding soy for those with dietary restrictions. It offers a clean taste and a realistic texture.

This burger is perfect for those who appreciate straightforward flavors without unnecessary additives. Lightlife focuses on delivering quality with every bite.

Whether grilled or pan-fried, it maintains its texture and flavor, making it a reliable option for diverse dietary needs. It’s a testament to simplicity done right.

9. Hilary’s World’s Best Veggie Burger

Hilary’s World’s Best Veggie Burger is wholesome and veggie-forward, catering to those seeking allergen-friendly options. It’s less ‘meaty,’ focusing on a hearty grain patty.

The combination of flavors and textures delivers satisfaction without imitating meat. It’s a fulfilling choice for those who enjoy a more natural approach.

Hilary’s offers a burger that’s both nutritious and delicious, appealing to health-conscious consumers. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a genuine veggie experience.

10. Amy’s Sonoma Veggie Burger

Amy’s Sonoma Veggie Burger is nutty and veggie-packed, firm enough to grill while retaining its rustic charm. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking clean, natural ingredients.

The nutty flavor adds a unique twist to this veggie burger, making it a delightful option for varied palates. Amy’s commitment to quality shines through in every patty.

Whether enjoyed at a picnic or a family dinner, this burger offers a satisfying experience. It’s perfect for those valuing authenticity over imitation.

11. Trader Joe’s Protein Patties

Trader Joe’s Protein Patties are affordable yet impressively juicy, proving to be better than expected from a store-brand option. These patties deliver on flavor and texture.

Their juiciness makes them a popular choice for those looking for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Trader Joe’s has crafted a patty that appeals to a wide audience.

Ideal for both casual and special occasions, these patties prove that quality need not come at a high price. It’s a budget-friendly delight.

12. PlantPure Black Bean Burger

PlantPure Black Bean Burger is rich in smoky, chipotle flavor, standing out as a great-tasting bean patty. It doesn’t try to mimic meat, focusing instead on its unique taste.

This burger is a favorite for those who love bold, distinct flavors. Its smoky undertones add an exciting twist to the traditional black bean patty.

Perfect for those who appreciate a little heat in their meals, PlantPure delivers a satisfying and flavorful option. It’s a spicy delight for adventurous eaters.

13. Boca Original Vegan Burger

The Boca Original Vegan Burger is a classic choice, offering a lean and satisfying experience with the right toppings. While not beef-like, it holds nostalgic value for many.

Its simplicity and accessibility make it a reliable option for quick meals. Boca has maintained its reputation over the years with this timeless patty.

Ideal for those who appreciate straightforward flavors, this burger remains a staple in many households. It’s a nostalgic nod to the early days of vegan offerings.

14. Sunshine Burger (Hemp & Sage)

Sunshine Burger, made with hemp and sage, is thick, earthy, and filled with whole ingredients. It’s perfect for a filling lunch that doesn’t pretend to be meat.

This burger offers a unique flavor profile, combining hemp’s nuttiness with sage’s aromatic qualities. It provides a refreshing alternative to conventional options.

For those who enjoy a hearty, natural patty, Sunshine delivers satisfaction. It’s a wholesome choice for those who value genuine ingredients.

15. Sol Cuisine Spicy Black Bean Burger

Sol Cuisine Spicy Black Bean Burger brings bold spice and real veggies, achieving a nice crisp when pan-seared. It offers a tasty twist on the traditional black bean patty.

This burger stands out with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. Sol Cuisine has crafted a patty that’s both exciting and delicious.

Perfect for spice lovers, this burger offers a kick that complements its savory profile. It’s a flavorful adventure for those who dare to try something new.

16. Gardenburger Original Veggie Patty

Gardenburger Original Veggie Patty is often criticized for its dry, bland, and mushy texture. Many feel it tastes like the ’90s in the worst way.

Despite its nostalgic appeal, it fails to deliver on flavor and satisfaction. Its texture leaves much to be desired, making it a less favored option.

For those seeking a flavorful experience, this patty might disappoint. It’s a reminder of how far vegan offerings have come since its inception.

17. Trader Joe’s Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burger

Trader Joe’s Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burger is criticized for being too sweet and soft, with an overpowering corn presence. Its fun name belies its odd taste.

While it attempts to offer something different, it misses the mark on delivering a balanced flavor profile. Many find it unsatisfactory.

For those who enjoy a more traditional burger experience, this might not meet expectations. It’s a quirky option that doesn’t quite hit the spot.

18. Engine 2 Plant-Strong Veggie Burger

Engine 2 Plant-Strong Veggie Burger, though nutrient-dense, struggles with texture, resembling a soft hockey puck made of oats.

Its healthy ingredients can’t compensate for its lack of enjoyable texture. Many find it unsatisfying despite its nutritional value.

For those prioritizing texture, this burger might disappoint. Its appeal lies more in its health aspects than in its culinary experience.

19. 365 by Whole Foods Veggie Burger

365 by Whole Foods Veggie Burger suffers from a rubbery, grainy, and underseasoned texture. Even condiments struggle to improve its taste.

While Whole Foods offers a variety of items, this burger falls short of their usual standards. Many find it lacking in flavor.

For those seeking a flavorful and enjoyable patty, this might not be the best choice. It’s a reminder that not all store-brand products shine.

20. Simple Truth Emerge Burger (Kroger)

Simple Truth Emerge Burger attempts to mimic meat but lands somewhere between salty and spongy. Its texture is a common point of contention.

Despite its effort to offer a meat-like experience, it leaves many unsatisfied. Its flavor profile is inconsistent and unappealing.

For those seeking a convincing burger alternative, this might fall short. It’s an example of how innovation doesn’t always guarantee success.

21. Aldi’s Earth Grown Black Bean Burger

Aldi’s Earth Grown Black Bean Burger is overly soft and short on flavor, often falling apart after the first bite. Its texture doesn’t impress.

While Aldi offers a range of affordable options, this burger doesn’t live up to expectations. Many find it lacking in both taste and structure.

For those prioritizing flavor and texture, this patty might not satisfy. It’s a reminder that not all budget-friendly options are worthwhile.

22. Nasoya Superfood Skillet Burger

Nasoya Superfood Skillet Burger is noted for its strange aftertaste and weird texture, with too much spinach-like funk. Its unique flavor isn’t for everyone.

While it attempts to offer a superfood-packed option, it doesn’t quite deliver on taste. Many find its flavor profile off-putting.

For those who appreciate more conventional flavors, this might not be the best match. It’s an acquired taste, not suited for all palates.

23. No Name Store-Brand Veggie Patties

No Name Store-Brand Veggie Patties, with their cardboard-like appearance, fail to impress with their texture and flavor. Many equate them to chewing cardboard.

Despite the budget-friendly price, these patties don’t deliver on the satisfaction front. Their uninspiring taste and texture leave much to be desired.

For those seeking quality, these patties might disappoint. It’s a testament to the importance of choosing known brands for better results.