Grilled Portobello Burgers

Name: Grilled Portobello Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large portobello mushrooms; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 whole wheat burger buns; 1 avocado, sliced; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes

Highlighted under: Easy Meal Solutions

I absolutely love making Grilled Portobello Burgers during the summer months. The earthy flavor of the portobello mushrooms, combined with a smoky char from the grill, creates a satisfying burger that even the most dedicated carnivores can't resist. I usually serve them with fresh toppings like avocado and homemade garlic aioli, which elevate the flavors. It’s a simple recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:53:36.618Z

When I first dived into vegetarian grilling, I was surprised at how versatile portobello mushrooms turned out to be. Their meaty texture and rich flavor make them the star ingredient of these burgers. My favorite method is marinating them in balsamic vinegar and olive oil, which enhances their umami character and helps achieve that perfect grill mark. I always preheat my grill for at least 10 minutes to ensure they get a great sear.

One time, I got creative with the toppings and added grilled pineapples for a sweet twist! The combination of the sweet caramelized fruit with the savory mushroom was a hit at our cookout. I recommend trying it out for something unique, and remember, don’t rush the grilling process; let those mushrooms soak up the flavors!

Why You'll Love These Burgers
Rich, savory flavor with a satisfying texture
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion
Versatile toppings for a personalized touch

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for these Grilled Portobello Burgers is essential for infusing the mushrooms with flavor. Balsamic vinegar contributes both acidity and a rich sweetness, which enhances the earthiness of the portobello. Olive oil not only adds a luxurious mouthfeel but also helps to create a beautiful char on the grill. When whisking the marinade, aim for an emulsified consistency, which will cling better to the mushrooms.

Allowing the mushrooms to soak for at least 10 minutes is crucial. This time not only allows the flavors to penetrate the mushrooms but also helps soften their texture, making them juicier when grilled. If you're short on time, you can marinate them for even just 5 minutes, but longer is always better for maximum flavor infusion.

Grilling Techniques for Success

Preheating your grill to medium-high heat is key to achieving those signature grill marks and a smoky flavor. An adequately heated grill will sear the mushrooms quickly, trapping their juices inside. You should hear a satisfying sizzle when you place the mushrooms on the grill—this is a good indicator that they’ll cook evenly and develop that lovely caramelization.

While grilling, be mindful of the cooking time. Each mushroom should cook for about 5 minutes per side. Keep an eye out for tenderness; the mushrooms should easily yield to a fork but remain intact. For best results, resist the urge to move them around too much, as this can disrupt the caramelization process.

Perfecting the Assembly

Assembling the burgers involves more than just stacking ingredients. Toasting the whole wheat buns enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch, so don’t skip this step! Aim for 1-2 minutes on the grill until the edges are golden and crispy. This not only prevents sogginess but also adds a pleasant texture contrast to the juicy mushrooms.

When layering your burger, start with lettuce to create a moisture barrier, preventing the bun from getting soggy. Then, add the grilled mushrooms, avocado slices, and finish with fresh tomatoes. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding pickled onions or jalapeños for an extra kick. This not only elevates the flavor profile but also adds vibrant colors to your dish.

Ingredients

For the Burgers

4 large portobello mushrooms
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 whole wheat burger buns
1 avocado, sliced
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes

Instructions

Grilling Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Marinate the Mushrooms

Place the portobello mushrooms in the marinade and let them soak for at least 10 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for about 10 minutes.

Grill the Mushrooms

Place the marinated mushrooms on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until tender.

Assemble the Burgers

Toast the burger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes, then layer with lettuce, grilled mushrooms, avocado, and sliced tomatoes.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite cheese on top of the mushrooms just before removing them from the grill. Additionally, serve with side dishes like sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Grilled Portobello Burgers can be prepared in advance, making them a great option for meal planning. You can marinate the mushrooms up to 24 hours ahead, just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Grilling them just before serving will keep them fresh and flavorful. If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply place the mushrooms back on the grill for a minute or two on each side or microwave them for 30-60 seconds. However, some loss of texture might occur; grilling is the best option for restoring that nice char.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead of whole wheat buns. The burger will still maintain its hearty feel when wrapped in crisp lettuce, plus it adds a refreshing crunch. For a vegan version, skip the aioli or substitute it with a plant-based version using cashews or avocado.

If balsamic vinegar isn’t available, you can use red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of sugar to mimic the sweetness. Additionally, feel free to adjust the spices based on your palate; adding a pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can give an exciting twist.

Serving Suggestions

These burgers are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with side dishes like a refreshing coleslaw or roasted sweet potato wedges. A vibrant salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the grilled mushrooms and adds a healthy component to your meal.

Consider serving these burgers with a selection of toppings to accommodate different tastes. Alongside avocado and tomatoes, set out options like grilled onions, feta cheese, or even a spicy aioli. Encouraging guests to customize their burgers not only enhances their experience but also showcases the versatility of this flavorful dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes, shiitake or king oyster mushrooms can also work, but portobello has the best texture for burgers.

→ How long can I marinate the mushrooms?

You can marinate them for up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor.

→ Can these burgers be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the mushrooms and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.

→ What are some good toppings for portobello burgers?

Great options include sliced cheese, jalapeños, caramelized onions, and your favorite sauces.