Are you craving the convenience of fast food but trying to stick to a vegetarian or vegan diet?
The struggle is real. The aroma of fries and the promise of a quick, satisfying meal can be tempting, but the standard fast food fare often leaves vegetarians and vegans feeling like afterthoughts. But fear not! The world of fast food is changing, and plant-based options are becoming increasingly prevalent. The question is, is it truly possible to find a good veggie burger at a fast food restaurant?
With the rising popularity of plant-based eating, more and more fast food chains are jumping on the bandwagon and offering veggie burgers. From dedicated plant-based patties to veggie-loaded sandwiches, the choices can be overwhelming. However, not all fast food veggie burgers are created equal. Some are culinary triumphs, while others are…well, let’s just say they leave something to be desired. This comprehensive guide ranks the best veggie burgers you can find at fast food chains across the country, carefully considering taste, texture, ingredients, availability, and overall experience. We’re on a mission to help you navigate the fast food landscape and find your perfect plant-based patty. Finding the best fast food veggie burger shouldn’t be a chore, let us guide you!
What Makes a Great Fast Food Veggie Burger?
Before we dive into the rankings, let’s establish the criteria we used to evaluate each burger. A truly exceptional fast food veggie burger goes beyond simply being meat-free. It needs to deliver a satisfying and flavorful experience that rivals its meaty counterparts.
First and foremost, taste is paramount. The overall flavor profile must be appealing, with well-balanced seasonings that complement the toppings. Is it bland and forgettable, or does it burst with savory goodness? We’re looking for a veggie burger that has its own unique flavour profile.
Next, texture plays a crucial role. No one wants a mushy, crumbly patty that falls apart with every bite. A good veggie burger should have a pleasant texture that holds up well and provides a satisfying chew. We want structural integrity!
The ingredients also matter. While it’s unrealistic to expect organic, locally sourced ingredients at a fast food chain, we still want to see a commitment to quality. Is the patty made from recognizable vegetables and plant-based proteins? Are there any artificial flavors or unnecessary additives? The nutritional value, including protein, calories, and fat content, will also be considered.
Availability is another important factor. A fantastic veggie burger is useless if it’s only available at a handful of locations. We’re focusing on burgers that are widely accessible across the country.
The price of the veggie burger in relation to other menu items and competing veggie burgers will be taken into account. Is it a budget-friendly option, or does it come with a premium price tag?
Finally, the degree of customization makes a difference. How easily can you modify the burger to suit your preferences? Can you remove certain toppings, add extra sauces, or make it vegan-friendly? The more customizable, the better. Also how easy is it to remove the cheese or sauces to make it a more vegan option?
The Rankings: Top Picks for the Best Fast Food Veggie Burger
Now for the moment you’ve been waiting for! Here are our top picks for the best fast food veggie burgers, ranked based on the criteria outlined above. Keep in mind that taste is subjective, so we encourage you to try these burgers yourself and form your own opinions.
Burger King: The Impossible Whopper
The Impossible Whopper has become a household name in the fast food veggie burger world, and for good reason. This offering features a plant-based Impossible patty, flame-broiled to perfection and topped with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, and sliced onions on a sesame seed bun.
In terms of taste, the Impossible Whopper is remarkably similar to a traditional Whopper. The flame-broiled patty has a smoky flavor that closely mimics beef, and the classic toppings work harmoniously to create a familiar and satisfying experience.
The texture is also impressive. The patty is slightly softer than a beef patty but holds together well and doesn’t fall apart. It provides a pleasant chew without being too dense or rubbery.
One of the biggest advantages of the Impossible Whopper is its widespread availability. You can find it at Burger King locations across the country. The price is generally comparable to a regular Whopper.
The main drawback is that the Impossible Whopper is not vegan by default, as it contains mayonnaise. However, it’s easily made vegan by requesting it without mayonnaise. It is also high in sodium, so be mindful of that if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Price: Approximately $6
- Customization: Easy to make vegan by removing mayonnaise.
- Overall Rating: Four and a half out of five stars.
Carl’s Jr.: Beyond Famous Star
Carl’s Jr. was one of the early adopters of plant-based burgers, and their Beyond Famous Star is a solid contender in the fast food veggie burger landscape. This burger features a Beyond Meat patty, topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, sliced onions, pickles, special sauce, and mayonnaise on a sesame seed bun.
The Beyond Meat patty has a slightly different flavor profile than the Impossible patty, with a more noticeable vegetable-forward taste. However, it’s still a flavorful and satisfying option. The toppings complement the patty well, creating a classic burger experience.
The texture is similar to that of the Impossible patty, with a slight chew and good structural integrity.
The Beyond Famous Star is widely available at Carl’s Jr. locations. However, like the Impossible Whopper, it’s not vegan by default due to the cheese and mayonnaise.
- Price: Around $6.50
- Customization: Can be made vegan by removing cheese and mayonnaise.
- Overall Rating: Four out of five stars.
Del Taco: Beyond 8 Layer Burrito & Epic Beyond Cali Burrito
While not a burger, Del Taco’s Beyond Meat offerings deserve a spot on this list. The Beyond 8 Layer Burrito and Epic Beyond Cali Burrito are both excellent vegetarian options that can easily be made vegan. The Beyond 8 Layer Burrito includes Beyond Meat crumbles, beans, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, cheese, sour cream, and red sauce. The Epic Beyond Cali Burrito features Beyond Meat crumbles, guacamole, fries, pico de gallo, and a creamy secret sauce.
The Beyond Meat crumbles provide a savory and satisfying base for both burritos, and the other ingredients add layers of flavor and texture. These are great options for those looking for something a little different from a traditional burger.
- Price: Varies depending on the burrito, but generally around $5-$7.
- Customization: Easy to make vegan by removing cheese and sour cream (Beyond 8 Layer Burrito) or cheese and creamy secret sauce (Epic Beyond Cali Burrito).
- Overall Rating: Four out of five stars.
Wendy’s: Spicy Black Bean Burger
Wendy’s Spicy Black Bean Burger presents a robust and flavorful choice for those seeking a meatless option with a kick. The patty, crafted from black beans and a medley of spices, delivers a satisfying heat that’s both distinct and enjoyable. Topped with a blend of melted cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty chipotle sauce, all nestled within a toasted bun, this burger provides a complex and delicious experience.
The combination of the spicy black bean patty with the cool, refreshing toppings creates a harmonious balance that caters to a variety of taste preferences. It’s a welcome departure from the often bland and uninspired veggie burgers found elsewhere.
The texture is also well-executed. The patty has a firm, slightly crumbly consistency that doesn’t fall apart easily, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
However, it’s worth noting that Wendy’s Spicy Black Bean Burger is not vegan due to the cheese and chipotle sauce, which contains dairy.
- Price: Approximately $5.50
- Customization: Can be modified by removing cheese and chipotle sauce. However, the chipotle sauce is a key component of the flavour so removal would sacrifice the overall taste.
- Overall Rating: Three and a half out of five stars.
Honorable Mentions
While the burgers listed above are our top picks, there are a few other options worth mentioning. Keep an eye out for regional or limited-time offerings, as fast food chains are constantly experimenting with new plant-based items. Keep an eye out for the McPlant which is still available in some locations.
Tips for Ordering the Best Fast Food Veggie Burger
To ensure you have the best possible experience when ordering a fast food veggie burger, keep these tips in mind:
- Customization is your friend: Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications to your burger. Remove ingredients you don’t like, add extra toppings, or request specific sauces.
- Beware of hidden animal products: Always double-check the ingredients of sauces, buns, and other toppings to ensure they are vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
- Read online reviews: Before trying a new veggie burger, look for online reviews to get a sense of what to expect.
- Complete your meal with veggie-friendly sides: French fries, onion rings, and salads are often vegetarian options, but be sure to check for hidden animal products like cheese or bacon bits.
- Ask about cooking methods: If you’re concerned about cross-contamination, inquire whether the veggie burger is cooked on the same grill as meat.
The Future is Plant-Based
Finding a delicious and satisfying fast food veggie burger is not only possible, it’s becoming easier and more common every day. With a little research and customization, you can enjoy a quick and convenient plant-based meal without sacrificing flavor or quality. The Impossible Whopper, Beyond Famous Star, and Del Taco’s Beyond Meat options are all excellent choices that showcase the potential of plant-based fast food.
As the demand for plant-based options continues to grow, we can expect to see even more innovative and delicious veggie burgers appearing on fast food menus in the future. The days of limited vegetarian options are fading fast, and the future of fast food is looking increasingly plant-based. Now go out there and discover your favorite best fast food veggie burger!
