Grilled Portobello Burgers

Name: Grilled Portobello Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large Portobello mushrooms; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 whole grain burger buns; 1 cup arugula; 1 tomato, sliced; 1/2 red onion, sliced; Your favorite sauce (e.g., pesto or aioli)

Highlighted under: Balanced Living Kitchen

I absolutely love grilled Portobello burgers! These max-sized mushrooms transform into juicy, meaty discs that are perfect as a burger alternative or main dish. The combination of smoky grill flavor, savory marinated mushrooms, and fresh toppings make each bite a delight. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up these burgers in just 30 minutes, and they are perfect for family cookouts. Whenever I serve them, my guests are always impressed and ask for seconds, making them a regular on our outdoor grill menu.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:24:36.293Z

One sunny afternoon, I was experimenting with vegetarian dishes and stumbled upon the idea of using Portobello mushrooms as burger patties. After marinating them in a delightful mix of balsamic vinegar and olive oil, I grilled them to absolute perfection. Since then, these burgers have become my go-to for cookouts, showcasing how versatile mushrooms can be in achieving a hearty texture.

I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the marinade enhances that grilled flavor even further. It’s one of those little tips that make a big difference in taste!

Why You'll Love These Burgers
Juicy, meaty texture that satisfies cravings
Smoky, grilled flavor that enhances the earthy taste of mushrooms
Easily customizable with various toppings and sauces

Marinade Magic

The marinade is a critical step in achieving the rich flavor profile of these grilled Portobello burgers. Balsamic vinegar not only adds acidity to balance the earthy mushrooms but also contributes a depth of sweetness once grilled. I recommend letting the mushrooms sit in the marinade for a full 15 to 30 minutes if you have extra time. This longer marination allows the flavors to penetrate deeper for an even more satisfying taste.

Make sure each mushroom is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Using a brush can help spread it evenly. Keep an eye on them after removing from the marinade; it’s best to grill them immediately to avoid sogginess. If using larger mushrooms, consider grilling for a minute or two longer until the edges are slightly charred and juicy.

Assembling Your Burger

When it comes to assembly, consider toasting the burger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until just golden. This step adds a delightful crunch and prevents the buns from becoming soggy from the juicy mushrooms. Layering is key; start with arugula for a peppery kick that complements the mushrooms, followed by tomato slices for freshness and red onion for a slight bite.

Feel free to get creative with toppings! Other great options include grilled peppers, avocado, or even a slice of cheese if you're not adhering to a vegan diet. When selecting a sauce, I usually favor a homemade aioli or pesto, as their vibrant flavors enhance the overall taste. Just remember to keep portions balanced; you want the sauce to complement without overshadowing the natural flavors of the mushrooms.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious grilled Portobello burgers:

For the Burgers

4 large Portobello mushrooms
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Toppings

4 whole grain burger buns
1 cup arugula
1 tomato, sliced
1/2 red onion, sliced
Your favorite sauce (e.g., pesto or aioli)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to grill your Portobello burgers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This marinade will add depth to the mushrooms, soaking in all the flavors.

Marinate the Mushrooms

Clean the Portobello mushrooms and remove the stems. Place them in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure they are well-coated.

Grill the Burgers

Preheat your grill over medium heat. Place the marinated mushrooms on the grill and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Assemble the Burgers

Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill. Place each grilled Portobello on a bun and top with arugula, tomato, onion, and your choice of sauce. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creation!

These burgers are not only delicious but also quick to prepare!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cheese like feta or goat cheese as a topping. You can also experiment with different sauces to find your perfect combination.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as it stands, you can easily switch up the marinade to add new flavors. Try adding soy sauce or a splash of lemon juice to the marinade for an umami boost. Alternatively, experimenting with spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs can also elevate the taste profile based on your personal preferences!

If you're looking to enhance the smoky flavor, consider using hardwood charcoal when grilling. This not only gives your mushrooms a deeper smokiness but also improves the overall grilling experience, making it even more enjoyable during outdoor cookouts.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the grilled mushrooms separately in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. Reheating is straightforward; simply place them back on the grill for a few minutes, or heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as mushrooms can become rubbery if cooked too long.

You can also prepare the mushrooms ahead of time and grill them just before serving. This method is great for hosting large gatherings, as it allows you to focus on the fun part—enjoying time with your guests! When ready to serve, simply assemble the burgers fresh for each plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prep the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, the ingredients used in this recipe are completely plant-based!

→ What sides pair well with these burgers?

Sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or a quinoa dish make excellent sides to complement these burgers.

→ Can I use other mushrooms for this recipe?

Certainly! Shiitake mushrooms can be a great alternative, though you'll need to adjust grilling time as needed.