• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

This Wife Cooks™

  • About
    • Contact
    • Work With Me
    • JOIN MY NEWSLETTER
  • Holidays
    • Vegan and Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes
    • Vegan & Vegetarian Christmas Recipes
    • New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
    • St. Patrick’s Day
    • Easter
    • Cinco de Mayo
    • 4th of July
    • Oktoberfest
    • Halloween
    • Game Day
    • Happy Birthday
  • Collections
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast & Brunch
    • Dessert
    • Lunch & Dinner
    • Side Dishes
    • Snacks
  • Popular
    • Breads
    • Casseroles & Comfort Food
    • Cookies & Cakes
    • Dressings & Dips
    • Kid Favorites
    • Pasta
    • Rice & Grains
    • Soups, Chilis, & Stews
    • Salads
    • Sandwiches, Tacos, & Burgers
    • Baking
    • Vegan
    • Vegetarian
  • Recipe Index
  • Navigation Menu: Social Icons

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
Home » Meals » Lunch & Dinner » Caprese Burgers

Caprese Burgers

May 23, 2024Leave a Comment

Pin
Share
Share
21Shares
View Recipe
Caprese Burgers ~ Garden fresh ingredients and the classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying plant-based burger! via @thiswifecooks

Caprese Burgers ~

The classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying plant-based burger!

Serve with Spinach Orzo or Parsley Potato Salad.

Caprese Burgers ~ The classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying veggie burger!

​Summer Veggie Burger Recipe

I like this recipe because the burgers are easy to make on the stovetop or outdoors on the grill and are packed with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.

What truly sets these burgers apart is the marinated fresh tomato slices. Soaking the tomato slices in a balsamic vinegar mixture infuses them with a sweet and tangy flavor that bursts with every bite. This small step enhances the overall taste and adds a gourmet touch to the burgers.

Caprese burgers are a tasty way to enjoy the garden-fresh flavors of summer. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and melty mozzarella, they’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout or burger night!

Caprese Burgers ~ The classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying veggie burger!

Ingredients for Caprese Burgers

You will need the following:

  • 8 tomato slices, 1/4-inch thick 
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 + 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup basil pesto
  • 24 ounces plant-based ground beef
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped + 16 whole leaves for serving
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 8 slices mozzarella cheese, 1/4-inch thick
  • 4 burger buns

Ingredient Notes

  • Tomato – Opt for large, ripe tomatoes to ensure you get those juicy, flavorful slices that are the hallmark of any good Caprese dish.
  • Balsamic Vinegar – Use a high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor. It adds a sweet and tangy punch that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
  • Mayonnaise – Regular or vegan mayonnaise works well here. It serves as the creamy base for the pesto sauce.
  • Basil Pesto – Traditional pesto contains Parmesan cheese, so if you prefer a vegan option, check the label to ensure it’s dairy-free.
  • Plant-Based Ground Beef – For these burgers, brands like Impossible or Beyond Meat offer great flavor and texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, umami depth to the burger patties. I like Violife brand vegan Parmesan.
  • Fresh Basil – Fresh basil leaves are essential for that classic Caprese flavor. Use finely chopped basil in the patties and whole leaves for serving.
  • Tomato Paste – Enhances the tomato flavor in the burger patties and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Mozzarella Cheese – Fresh regular or dairy-free mozzarella slices add a creamy, melty goodness to each burger. Miyoko’s brand mozzarella is a good vegan option that softens nicely on the hot burger patties.
  • Burger Buns – Lightly toasting the buns brings out their flavor and adds nice texture.

How to Make Caprese Burgers

STEP ONE: Marinate the Tomatoes – Arrange the tomato slices in a shallow dish in a single layer. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, water, salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Pour over the tomato slices and set aside.

STEP TWO: Prepare the Pesto Mayo – In the bowl used for the vinegar mixture, combine the mayonnaise and pesto. Set aside.

STEP THREE: Make the Patties – In a large bowl, combine the plant-based ground beef, Parmesan, tomato paste, salt, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then shape into patties.

STEP FOUR: Cook the Burgers – Heat a grill, skillet, or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the burger patties and cook for 4 minutes. Flip the burgers over and add mozzarella slices. Cook patties for an additional 4 minutes, until the cheese is softened and the internal temperature of the burgers reaches 160°F. Remove from heat and set aside.

STEP FIVE: Toast the Buns – Place the buns face-side down onto the heat source and toast for 1-2 minutes.

STEP SIX: Assemble the Burgers – Spread the pesto mayo on the bottom halves of the buns. Top each with a burger patty, marinated tomato slices, fresh basil leaves, and the top bun. Serve immediately.

    FAQ

    • Can I make these burgers ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the patties and marinate the tomatoes ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook patties and assemble the burgers just before serving for the best taste and texture.
    • What other cheese can I use instead of mozzarella? If you prefer a different cheese, try provolone or a mild cheddar. Both will melt nicely and complement the other flavors.
    • How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover burger patties and components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
    Caprese Burgers ~ The classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying veggie burger!

    What to Serve with Caprese Burgers

    Caprese burgers pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to round out your meal:

    • Garlic Parmesan Fries – Crispy fries seasoned with garlic and Parmesan are a perfect match for these burgers.
    • Caprese Salad – Double down on the Caprese theme with a simple salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
    • Grilled Vegetables – A medley of grilled zucchini and yellow squash makes for a colorful and healthy side.
    • Potato Salad – A classic potato salad, either creamy or vinegary, complements the flavors of the Caprese burger nicely.

    More Burger Recipes You’ll Love!

    • BBQ Burgers​
    • Chickpea Burgers​
    • Vegan Sausage Burgers​
    • Vegan Chorizo Burgers​
    • Juicy Lucy Burgers​

    Follow This Wife Cooks on Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest

    Caprese Burgers ~ Garden fresh ingredients and the classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying plant-based burger!
    Caprese Burgers ~ The classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying veggie burger!

    Caprese Burgers

    Garden fresh ingredients and the classic flavors of Caprese salad in a hearty and satisfying plant-based burger!
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American, Italian
    Keyword: 4th of July, burgers, comfort food, Father’s Day, Game Day, grilled, vegan, vegan meat, vegetarian
    Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes minutes
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 972kcal
    Author: Holly Gray
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients

    • 8 tomato slices 1/4-inch thick
    • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon water
    • 1/8 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 + 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper divided
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 1/4 cup basil pesto
    • 24 ounces plant-based ground beef
    • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
    • 1/4 cup fresh basil finely chopped + 16 whole leaves for serving
    • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
    • 8 slices mozzarella cheese 1/4-inch thick
    • 4 burger buns

    Instructions

    • Arrange the tomato slices in a shallow dish in a single layer. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, water, salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Pour over the tomato slices and set aside.
    • In the bowl used for the vinegar mixture, combine the mayonnaise and pesto. Set aside.
    • In a large bowl, combine the plant-based ground beef, Parmesan, tomato paste, salt, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then shape into patties.
    • Heat a grill, skillet, or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the burger patties and cook for 4 minutes. Flip the burgers over and add mozzarella slices. Cook patties for an additional 4 minutes, until the cheese is softened and the internal temperature of the burgers reaches 160°F. Remove from heat and set aside.
    • Place the buns face-side down onto the heat source and toast for 1-2 minutes.
    • Spread the pesto mayo on the bottom halves of the buns. Top each with a burger patty, marinated tomato slices, fresh basil leaves, and the top bun. Serve immediately.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 972kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 55g | Fat: 70g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Monounsaturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 182mg | Sodium: 1311mg | Potassium: 792mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1402IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 560mg | Iron: 6mg
    Tried this recipe?Mention @thiswifecooks or tag #thiswifecooks!
    Pin
    Share
    Share
    21Shares

    Related Posts:

    • Spinach Orzo Salad ~An easy and versatile Mediterranean-inspired orzo pasta salad made with a medley of fresh ingredients and pantry staples.
      Spinach Orzo Salad
    • Tomato Orzo Salad ~ Quick and easy pasta salad with garden-fresh tomatoes and herbs in a light lemon dressing.
      Tomato Orzo Salad
    • Lemon Orzo and Rice Pilaf ~ Orzo pasta and rice simmered in a lemon and dill-seasoned broth and topped with fresh parsley and lemon zest.
      Lemon Orzo Rice Pilaf

    Filed Under: 4th of July, Comfort Food, Game Day, Grilling, Lunch & Dinner, On the Grill, Summer Flavors, Vegan, Vegetarian Tagged With: 4th of July, burgers, comfort food, dairy-free, Father's Day, Memorial Day, quick and easy, vegan, vegan meat, vegetarian

    Previous Post: « Vegan Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
    Next Post: Cucumber Couscous Salad »

    Reader Interactions

    5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Welcome!

    Hi, I’m Holly! I’m a busy wife and mom. I love cooking for my family and sharing creative and flavorful plant-based recipes.

    Here, you will find everything from quick and easy dinners to comfort food classics and holiday favorites.

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    Recent Posts

    • White Bean Burgers
    • Japanese Spinach Salad
    • Roasted Zucchini Pasta
    • Olive and Feta Garlic Bread

    Footer

    Copyright © 2025 Rise and Shine Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy .Terms of Service .

    This Wife Cooks™Logo Header Menu
    • About
      • Contact
      • Work With Me
    • Holiday
    • Collections
      • Appetizers
      • Breakfast & Brunch
      • Dessert
      • Lunch & Dinner
      • Side Dishes
    • Popular

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.