The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is a delicious plant-based alternative that can satisfy even the most devoted meat lover. This hearty burger features marinated portobello mushrooms grilled to perfection, topped with melted Swiss cheese and fresh veggies like tomatoes, spinach, and avocado. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or casual lunches, this recipe is both flavorful and versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The balsamic vinegar and rosemary marinade infuse the mushrooms with a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
• Healthier Option: Packed with nutrients and lower in calories compared to traditional beef burgers, this grilled portobello mushroom burger is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Vegetarian Delight: Ideal for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to mix and match toppings according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or indoor grill pan
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or indoor grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the mushrooms while keeping them juicy.
• Basting brush: Helps evenly distribute the marinade on the mushrooms for enhanced flavor during grilling.
• Knife & cutting board: Necessary for slicing your toppings neatly, ensuring each bite of your burger is packed with flavor.

Ingredients

I set out to make a great tasting grilled portobello mushroom burger that even a meat lover would love. The mushrooms are marinated then grilled and topped with melted Swiss Cheese, grilled red onion, tomatoes, spinach, and avocado – yum!!

For the Burger

• 4 portobello mushroom caps
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
• 1-1/2 tsp steak seasoning like Montreal Steak Grill Mates
• 4 thick slices red onion
• 4 oz reduced fat Swiss (sliced thin)
• 4 thin slices tomato
• 1/2 avocado (sliced thin)
• Baby spinach
• 4 whole wheat low calorie buns (I used Martin)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, rosemary, and Montreal steak seasoning until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Mushrooms

Place the mushroom caps in the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently using a spoon to ensure they are evenly coated. Let them stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, turning occasionally.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill or indoor grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, brush the grate with oil or lightly spray it for non-stick cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Mushrooms

Place the marinated mushrooms on the grill. Reserve any leftover marinade for basting. Grill each side for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender. Baste frequently with marinade while grilling.

Step 5: Add Cheese

During the last minute of grilling, place thin slices of Swiss cheese on top of each mushroom cap and close the grill lid until melted.

Step 6: Grill Onions & Buns

While mushrooms are cooking, grill red onion slices for approximately one minute on each side. Additionally, toast the whole wheat buns until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Burger

To assemble your burger, place baby spinach on each toasted bun followed by the grilled portobello mushrooms. Top them with grilled onions, sliced tomatoes, and avocado. Close with the top half of the bun and enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

A grilled portobello mushroom burger is a delicious and hearty meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual lunch, these serving suggestions will elevate your burger experience.

With Classic Toppings

• Lettuce and Tomato: Add fresh lettuce and juicy tomato slices for crunch and freshness.
• Grilled Peppers: For a smoky flavor, top your burger with grilled bell peppers.
• Spicy Aioli: A drizzle of spicy aioli adds a kick to your burger.

On a Salad

• Portobello Salad: Slice the grilled mushrooms and serve them over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite dressing.
• Caesar Style: Toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing, croutons, and sliced portobello for a tasty twist.

In a Wrap

• Veggie Wrap: Place the grilled portobello in a whole grain wrap with spinach, tomatoes, and hummus for a lighter meal.
• Mediterranean Wrap: Add feta cheese and olives for Mediterranean flair.

How to Perfect The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

For an amazing grilled portobello mushroom burger, follow these tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the mushrooms to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to absorb maximum flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like rosemary elevate the taste of your burger significantly.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the mushrooms on it; this helps achieve perfect grill marks and tenderness.
• Baste Frequently: Keep the mushrooms moist by basting them with marinade while grilling.
• Watch Cooking Time: Grill the mushrooms until they are tender but not mushy; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While Swiss cheese is delicious, try other varieties like provolone or goat cheese for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Pairing side dishes with your grilled portobello mushroom burger can create a complete meal. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers freshness that complements the rich flavors of the burger.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies makes for a nutritious side option.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus are perfect for grilling alongside your burgers.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances any barbecue meal; grill it for added smokiness.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic companion that pairs well with all types of burgers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve a delicious and satisfying burger.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the mushrooms can lead to bland flavor. Make sure to allow them to soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Mushrooms: Cooking mushrooms too long can make them tough. Grill them just until tender, typically 5-7 minutes on each side.
• Neglecting the Cheese: Forgetting to add cheese at the end can result in a less creamy burger. Place the cheese on top of the mushrooms during the last minute of grilling for perfect melting.
• Using Low-Quality Buns: Poor-quality buns can ruin your burger experience. Choose whole wheat low-calorie buns for better flavor and texture.
• Not Adding Fresh Ingredients: Skipping fresh toppings like spinach or avocado can make your burger less vibrant. Incorporate fresh veggies for added nutrition and taste.
• Inadequate Grill Preparation: Failing to preheat and oil your grill can lead to sticking. Always ensure your grill is hot and lightly oiled before placing the mushrooms on it.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover burgers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep toppings separate if possible, to maintain freshness.

Freezing The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

• Wrap individual burgers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen burgers are best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burger on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover with a lid, reheating for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger so special?

The combination of marinated portobello mushrooms with fresh toppings creates a rich flavor that appeals even to meat lovers.

Can I customize my grilled portobello mushroom burger?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out toppings like cheese or add different veggies based on your preferences.

How do I know when my portobello mushrooms are done?

Mushrooms should be tender and easy to pierce with a fork, typically after about 5-7 minutes on each side on the grill.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is great for meal prep. Just store ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings and ingredients, making it suitable for any palate. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or craving a healthy lunch option, this burger is sure to please everyone—so give it a try!