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, cleaned; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 whole wheat burger buns; Arugula or spinach leaves; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 large tomato, sliced; Your favorite sauce (e.g., pesto or aioli)

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

I absolutely love grilling Portobello mushrooms for burgers! The rich, meaty texture makes them the perfect substitute for traditional beef patties. Each summer, we fire up the grill and pile them high with toppings for a deliciously satisfying meal. With a smoky, robust flavor and juicy interior, these burgers are not only easy to prepare but also a hit at backyard gatherings. If you haven't tried this plant-based delight yet, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive in and create something mouthwatering together!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:17:35.685Z

When I first decided to try grilled Portobello burgers, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The key for me was marinating the mushrooms in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and garlic. This not only enhances their flavor but also brings out their natural juiciness. I learned that soaking them for just 15 minutes makes all the difference.

After grilling, I love loading them with fresh ingredients like arugula, avocado, and a thick slice of tomato. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch against the meaty texture of the mushroom. It’s a fulfilling meal that never gets old!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously smoky flavor enhanced by grilling
Juicy texture that satisfies even meat lovers
Highly customizable with different toppings and sauces

      

Essential Techniques for Perfect Grilling

Grilling Portobello burgers requires attention to detail for the best texture and flavor. When marinating the mushrooms, the balsamic vinegar acts as a tenderizer while infusing a deep, rich taste. Make sure to flip the mushrooms halfway through grilling to develop a balanced char on both sides. Look for grill marks that indicate a good sear, as well as a soft, juicy texture that signals they are done. Timing can vary depending on the heat of your grill, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery outcome.

For the best results, consider using a two-zone fire on your grill—one side high for searing and the other lower for gentle cooking. This method allows you to sear the mushrooms and then move them to the cooler side to finish cooking without drying them out. Using a grill basket can also be advantageous to keep the mushrooms from slipping through the grates, especially if they are particularly large or have irregular shapes.

Ingredient Insights and Variations

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in enhancing flavor. For example, the olive oil brings richness and moisture to the mushrooms while assisting in the caramelization process during grilling. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, try substituting with avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and provides a similar texture. Alternatively, for a more intense flavor, consider using a flavored olive oil, like garlic or herb-infused oil, during marination.

While whole wheat buns are a great choice for added nutrition and texture, feel free to explore alternative options like gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb approach. You can also customize the toppings based on seasonal availability; grilled zucchini, roasted bell peppers, or even pickled red onions can elevate the flavor profile. Don't hesitate to experiment with different sauces as well—spicy mustard or a tangy barbecue can offer exciting twists!

Ingredients

For the Burgers

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

For Toppings

4 whole wheat burger buns
Arugula or spinach leaves
1 avocado, sliced
1 large tomato, sliced
Your favorite sauce (e.g., pesto or aioli)

Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Instructions

Marinate the Mushrooms

In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add Portobello mushrooms, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It's important to have a hot surface to create those perfect grill marks.

Grill the Mushrooms

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

Toast the Buns

In the last couple of minutes of grilling, add the burger buns cut-side down to the grill. Toast until golden brown.

Assemble the Burgers

On each bun, place a grilled Portobello cap and top with arugula, avocado slices, and tomato. Drizzle with your favorite sauce before serving.

For the best results, serve the burgers immediately while they're warm!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings like roasted red peppers or even a slice of cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a large gathering, you can marinate the Portobello mushrooms up to 24 hours ahead of grilling. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. Prepping the toppings in advance, such as slicing the avocado and tomato, can also save you time. However, keep the avocado slices from browning by sprinkling them with a little lemon juice before storing.

As for leftovers, grilled Portobello burgers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They reheat well in a skillet over medium heat, which helps restore their juicy texture. Simply cover with a lid while warming to ensure they don’t dry out. You can also slice the mushrooms and use them as a topping on salads or grain bowls for a quick meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common mistake when grilling Portobello mushrooms is cooking them too quickly over a high flame, which can lead to uneven cooking and dryness. To avoid this, maintain a steady medium-high heat and monitor the cooking time closely—about 5 to 7 minutes per side is ideal. If they start to crisp up too much on the grill, reduce the heat or move them to a cooler part of the grill to retain moisture.

Another point of contention can be the marination process; if the mushrooms are not marinated long enough, they may lack flavor. I recommend letting them soak for at least 15 minutes, but really, 30 minutes is optimal. If you want to boost flavor further, score the caps with a fork or knife before marinating to allow the marinade to penetrate deeper. This simple technique goes a long way in ensuring tasty results!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular mushrooms instead of Portobello?

While you can use other types of mushrooms, Portobello provides the best texture and flavor for a burger.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the mushrooms a few hours earlier or even a day before grilling.

→ What sides pair well with these burgers?

They go great with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.