Are MorningStar burgers a good meat alternative?

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to MorningStar Farms, their Garden Veggie Burgers contain 79% less fat than regular ground beef patties. However, when considering if MorningStar burgers are a good meat alternative, the answer depends on your specific health and dietary goals.

Quick Summary

MorningStar burgers are a convenient, low-fat meatless option with flavors ranging from classic veggie to spicy black bean. While offering a good source of protein, they are moderately processed and may not satisfy those seeking the texture and flavor of traditional beef.

Key Points

Low in Fat: MorningStar burgers are generally lower in fat and contain no cholesterol compared to regular beef patties.
Moderately Processed: These burgers are a moderately processed food, containing additives and ingredients like textured soy protein, which may not appeal to all consumers.
Variety of Flavors: The brand offers a range of options, from vegetable-heavy patties to those with a charred, smoky flavor, catering to different taste preferences.
Convenience: As a frozen, pre-made product, MorningStar burgers provide a quick and easy-to-prepare meal option for busy individuals.
Variable Texture: Some consumers find the texture of certain varieties to be soft or bland, while others appreciate the inclusion of visible vegetables.
Not all are Vegan: While plant-based, many traditional MorningStar burgers contain milk and egg ingredients, so careful label reading is required for vegans.
Good Source of Protein: Many MorningStar burgers provide a significant amount of protein, making them a satisfying and filling meal component.

Are MorningStar burgers a good meat alternative? The simple answer is yes, but with important considerations regarding your nutritional priorities, taste preferences, and the level of processing you find acceptable. For decades, MorningStar Farms has been a staple in the frozen food aisle, providing a quick and easy option for vegetarians and flexitarians alike. Unlike newer, hyper-realistic plant-based burgers, MorningStar offers a range of products, from vegetable-forward patties to those designed to mimic a traditional beef flavor. The ultimate "goodness" of this alternative depends on what you're looking for in a meat substitute.

Nutritional Breakdown of MorningStar Burgers

MorningStar burgers, such as the Garden Veggie or Grillers Original, offer a distinct nutritional profile compared to traditional ground beef. Generally, they are lower in calories and fat, containing no cholesterol. Many varieties are a good source of protein, with the Grillers Original, for instance, boasting 16g per serving. Fiber content is another key benefit, which is absent in beef but prominent in many MorningStar recipes due to ingredients like brown rice and vegetables. However, some products can be higher in sodium than ground beef, so checking the nutrition label is crucial, especially for those monitoring their salt intake. Furthermore, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has noted that some MorningStar products are moderately processed and contain natural flavors and other additives.

Comparison Table: MorningStar Grillers Original vs. Ground Beef Patty (64g)


Feature	MorningStar Grillers Original	Cooked Regular Ground Beef Patty
Calories	140	~170-200
Protein	16g	~16g (varies)
Total Fat	7g	~14g
Saturated Fat	1g	~6g
Cholesterol	0mg	~70mg
Fiber	5g	0g

Taste, Texture, and Variety

The most significant point of departure between MorningStar burgers and their meat counterparts is taste and texture. Critics sometimes complain that older MorningStar formulations had a mushy texture after a recipe change. However, many customers still praise the brand for its savory flavor profiles. For some, this difference is a feature, not a bug; the Garden Veggie burger, for example, is full of visible vegetable pieces and is not trying to replicate meat. The Spicy Black Bean burger offers a more distinct, non-meat-like flavor profile that many enjoy. This variety means that you can find a MorningStar burger to suit your mood, whether you want a hearty, char-grilled experience or a vegetable-forward patty.

Product Variety

Garden Veggie Patties: A savory blend of vegetables, rice, and oats for a texture and flavor distinct from meat.
Grillers Original: Designed to mimic a more traditional beef-like taste and texture, often with a hint of smoky flavor.
Spicy Black Bean Burgers: A southwestern-style burger with black beans, corn, and spices.
Vegan Meat Lovers Burger: A newer option for those seeking a more traditional burger experience, made with wheat gluten and soy protein.

Processing and Ingredients

Unlike unprocessed whole foods like lentils or beans, MorningStar burgers are considered a moderately processed food. Their ingredients often include textured vegetable protein, soy protein concentrate, oils, and various binders and seasonings. Some consumers prefer less processed alternatives, such as homemade black bean or lentil patties, while others value the convenience and consistency of a pre-made frozen product. For those with dietary concerns, it's also important to note that many traditional MorningStar products contain egg whites and milk ingredients, making them vegetarian but not vegan. However, the company has expanded its range to include many vegan options to address this.

Conclusion: So, Are They a Good Alternative?

Whether MorningStar burgers are a "good" meat alternative depends on your perspective. For those seeking a healthier, lower-fat, and cholesterol-free option, they are an excellent choice. They also offer unmatched convenience for quick meals. However, for those who prioritize minimally processed foods or seek an exact flavor and texture replica of a traditional beef burger, MorningStar may fall short compared to newer, more meat-like alternatives. Ultimately, MorningStar burgers excel at being a familiar, accessible, and versatile plant-based product with a solid place in the vegetarian market. Your best approach is to experiment with the different varieties available and see which one best fits your personal health goals and taste preferences.

For further insights into the plant-based food industry, the Consumer Reports website offers excellent guides on meat alternatives and health implications.

Frequently Asked Questions

MorningStar burgers are made from a blend of ingredients that typically include vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and onions, along with soy protein concentrate, textured vegetable protein, grains like rice and oats, and seasonings.

From a nutritional standpoint, MorningStar burgers are often lower in fat and calories and contain no cholesterol, which can make them a healthier choice than a standard beef burger. However, they can be higher in sodium and are more processed.

The taste varies significantly by product line. Some varieties, like the Grillers Original, are formulated to mimic a traditional burger flavor, while others, like the Garden Veggie, taste distinctly like vegetables.

According to the Environmental Working Group, some MorningStar products are classified as moderately processed. They contain various additives and flavor enhancers, which is a key difference from whole-food plant-based options.

Not all MorningStar burgers are vegan. Traditional varieties, like the Garden Veggie, contain egg whites and milk ingredients. However, the company offers a growing range of products specifically labeled as vegan, so it's important to check the packaging.

MorningStar Farms products are widely available in the frozen food section of most major grocery stores across the United States and are also sold at many smaller and specialized retailers.

The primary protein sources in MorningStar burgers are typically textured vegetable protein (TVP) and soy protein concentrate, which provide a complete and substantial protein content.