The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is a delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor. This burger is perfect for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or even as a satisfying lunch. With marinated portobello mushrooms grilled to perfection and topped with creamy Swiss cheese and fresh veggies, this dish will impress both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Experience: The marinade adds a depth of flavor that transforms the mushrooms into a savory delight.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this burger is lower in calories compared to traditional beef burgers.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the toppings and sides to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Satisfying Meal: With its rich flavors and textures, this burger will leave you feeling full and satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or indoor grill pan
• Large bowl
• Basting brush
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or indoor grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor on the mushrooms.
• Large bowl: Perfect for marinating the portobello caps evenly in the sauce.
• Basting brush: Helps you apply the marinade while grilling, ensuring maximum flavor absorption.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the mushrooms and onions without damaging them.

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 Burgers

• 4 portobello mushroom caps
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
• 1-1/2 teaspoons 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 them 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: Heat Up the Grill

Preheat your grill or indoor grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, brush the grate with oil or lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

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 tender—remember to baste frequently with marinade as they cook.

Step 5: Add Cheese

During the last minute of grilling, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each mushroom cap so it melts perfectly.

Step 6: Grill Onions and Buns

While grilling the mushrooms, add thick slices of red onion to the grill. Grill them for about 1 minute on each side. Additionally, toast your whole wheat buns until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Burger

To assemble your burger, layer baby spinach on each toasted bun followed by a grilled portobello mushroom cap. Top it off with grilled onions, sliced tomatoes, and avocado slices. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Serving The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is all about enhancing its flavors and textures. These delicious burgers can be complemented with a variety of toppings and sides that appeal to everyone, from veggie lovers to meat enthusiasts.

Classic Toppings

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the flavors.
• Grilled Onions – Sweet and smoky onions bring depth to each bite.
• Fresh Spinach – A layer of spinach adds a refreshing crunch.

Flavorful Sauces

• Garlic Aioli – A creamy garlic sauce elevates the taste profile beautifully.
• Spicy Mustard – For those who enjoy a kick, this mustard enhances the burger’s flavor.
• Tomato Salsa – Fresh salsa provides a zesty touch and extra moisture.

Cheese Variations

• Pepper Jack Cheese – Adds a spicy twist for cheese lovers.
• Feta Crumbles – A crumbly cheese option that adds tanginess.

How to Perfect The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Perfecting The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your burgers are top-notch.

• Marinate Well – Allow the mushrooms to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. This infuses them with flavor.
• Preheat the Grill – Make sure your grill is hot before adding the mushrooms. This gives them nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Baste Frequently – Keep basting the mushrooms with leftover marinade while grilling. This keeps them juicy and flavorful.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for better taste and texture in your burger.
• Toast the Buns – Lightly toast your buns on the grill for added crunch and warmth.
• Experiment with Toppings – Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or sauces to create your perfect burger combination.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Pairing your grilled portobello mushroom burger with delightful side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this tasty burger.

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory burger; bake or fry until golden brown.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw offers freshness and a tangy kick; consider adding apple slices for sweetness.
3. Quinoa Salad – Packed with protein, this salad is light yet filling; toss with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients; grill until tender.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is a classic side; brush with butter and sprinkle with salt before grilling.
6. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar bring brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using unseasoned mushrooms: Always marinate the mushrooms well. A good marinade enhances flavor and ensures that your burger is not bland.

• Overcooking the mushrooms: Mushrooms can become tough if grilled too long. Keep an eye on the grill time, aiming for 5 to 7 minutes per side for optimal tenderness.

• Skipping toppings: Don’t overlook the toppings! Adding melted Swiss cheese, fresh spinach, and avocado elevates the burger. Customize according to your taste preferences.

• Neglecting bun quality: Choose quality buns for a fulfilling burger experience. Whole wheat low-calorie buns are a great option that adds fiber without compromising taste.

• Forgetting to baste during grilling: Basting the mushrooms with marinade while they grill keeps them juicy. Use a brush to apply the marinade every few minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

• Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• These burgers can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Warm each mushroom burger for about 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger so special?

The combination of marinated mushrooms, melted Swiss cheese, and fresh toppings creates a rich flavor profile that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Can I customize The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different cheeses, swap out vegetables, or even use different types of buns to suit your taste.

How do I know when my portobello mushrooms are done?

Look for tender, juicy mushrooms that have released their moisture. They should be beautifully browned and easy to pierce with a fork.

Is The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger healthy?

Yes! This burger is packed with nutrients from vegetables and provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats while being lower in calories than traditional meat burgers.

Final Thoughts

The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it by changing toppings or sauces based on your preferences. This recipe offers a satisfying meal that caters to various diets, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!