Grilled Portobello Burgers

Name: Grilled Portobello Burgers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large portobello mushrooms; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 whole grain burger buns; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup spinach or arugula; Tomato slices; Sliced red onion; Pesto or your favorite sauce

Highlighted under: Classic Family Meals

I absolutely love grilling, especially when it comes to making these Grilled Portobello Burgers. They are hearty, packed with flavor, and satisfy my craving for a delicious meatless option. The juicy portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar add a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. When grilled to perfection, they become tender and smoky, making for a delightful burger experience. I like to pile on fresh toppings and pair it with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal that’s both comforting and light.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:20:37.408Z

When I first tried these Grilled Portobello Burgers, I was amazed at how a simple mushroom could transform into something so deliciously satisfying. Experimenting with different marinades, I discovered that balsamic vinegar brings out a rich, savory flavor while enhancing the natural smokiness from grilling. Adding fresh herbs or spices can elevate the dish further, bringing new dimensions to each bite.

One of my favorite tips is to let the mushrooms marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This extra time allows them to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a juicy, flavorful burger that’s perfect for satisfying both veggie lovers and meat eaters alike. Pairing it with creamy avocado or homemade pesto takes the experience to another level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty texture that rivals traditional beef burgers
Rich, smoky flavor that delights the taste buds
Versatile toppings to customize to your liking

Perfectly Marinating Your Mushrooms

To truly elevate the flavor of your grilled portobello burgers, the marinating process is crucial. For optimal results, allow the mushrooms to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, let them sit for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This extended marination time allows the balsamic vinegar and garlic to penetrate the mushrooms deeply, enhancing their natural umami flavor. Always ensure the mushrooms are fully coated in the marinade to achieve consistent flavor throughout.

The choice of balsamic vinegar plays a significant role in the overall taste. A high-quality balsamic will provide a sweet-tart complexity that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the mushrooms. If you're looking for a twist, try a flavored vinegar, like fig or raspberry, to give your burgers a unique twist. Just remember to keep the oil-to-vinegar ratio balanced to prevent the marinade from becoming too acidic.

Mastering the Grill Technique

For grilling portobello mushrooms, medium-high heat is vital. This ensures the exterior gets nicely charred while the inside remains tender and juicy. When placing the mushrooms on the grill, gill-side down, you're allowing the juices to remain inside rather than dripping away. Keep an eye on them during grilling; you're aiming for a rich, smoky aroma and a golden-brown exterior. If you notice any sticking, gently twist the mushrooms with a grill spatula; this can often help release them without tearing.

Flipping the mushrooms halfway through allows them to cook evenly and develop those beautiful grill marks. It's important not to overcook them; check for doneness around the 10-14 minute mark total. The mushrooms should be tender enough to pierce with a fork but not mushy. If they're browning too quickly, consider adjusting the grill temperature slightly down.

Customizing Your Burger Experience

The versatility of portobello burgers allows you to customize them to suit your personal taste or dietary needs. Feel free to swap the whole grain buns for gluten-free options or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. The toppings can also vary; try adding roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, or crumbly feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. Each addition will complement the grilled mushrooms beautifully while creating a unique flavor profile.

If you're preparing for a crowd, consider making a batch of grilled mushrooms ahead of time. They can be grilled fully and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, just heat them briefly on the grill or in a skillet until warmed through. This makes for a quick assembly of burgers during busy evenings or gatherings, allowing everyone to build their own delicious creation at the table.

Ingredients

For the Mushroom Burgers

4 large portobello mushrooms
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

4 whole grain burger buns
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup spinach or arugula
Tomato slices
Sliced red onion
Pesto or your favorite sauce

Please prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Marinate the Mushrooms

In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush this marinade over the portobello mushrooms and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Mushrooms

Place the marinated portobello mushrooms on the grill, gill-side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, then flip and grill for another 5-7 minutes until tender and juicy.

Assemble the Burgers

On the bottom half of each bun, layer the grilled mushrooms, avocado slices, spinach, tomato, and onion. Spread pesto on the top half of the bun and place it on top to complete the burger.

Serve

Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Feel free to customize your toppings to your personal preference!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different marinades like soy sauce or teriyaki. If preferred, you can also add cheese to melt over the mushrooms during the last few minutes of grilling.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover grilled portobello mushrooms, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can last up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, avoid the microwave; instead, use the grill or a skillet to retain their texture. Heat over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

For longer storage, consider freezing the grilled mushrooms. Slice them before freezing to make thawing easier later. Seal in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned above.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Experimenting with flavor variations can greatly enhance your portobello burgers. A drizzle of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce in the marinade can deepen the savory notes. You can also add fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the marinade for a fragrant touch. Mixing in Dijon mustard or a splash of lemon juice can give a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the mushrooms.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade. This subtle heat can beautifully contrast the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar, providing a delightful kick. Additionally, toppings like pepper jack cheese or spicy aioli make great partners to amp up the flavor profile for heat lovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the mushrooms in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ What are some good side dishes to serve with these burgers?

Sweet potato fries, a quinoa salad, or even grilled vegetables pair beautifully with portobello burgers.

→ Are grilled portobello burgers vegan?

Yes, as long as you use vegan buns and toppings, this recipe is completely plant-based.

→ How long can leftover grilled portobello burgers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.