These Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers are a delicious and hearty option for any occasion, whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy weeknight dinner. Marinated in a flavorful balsamic blend, these burgers are grilled to perfection, showcasing their smoky and tender qualities. They serve as an excellent plant-based alternative that everyone will enjoy!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Marinade
- For Serving
- For Garnish
- How to Make Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
- Step 2: Make the Marinade
- Step 3: Marinate
- Step 4: Preheat Grill
- Step 5: Grill Mushrooms
- Step 6: Assemble Burgers
- How to Serve Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Classic Toppings
- Gourmet Additions
- Unique Twists
- How to Perfect Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Best Side Dishes for Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Reheating Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers ahead of time?
- How do I know when my grilled mushrooms are done?
- Can I use other types of mushrooms?
- What toppings go well with Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers?
- Are these burgers gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have these burgers ready to grill in no time.
- Packed with Flavor: The balsamic marinade infuses the mushrooms with a rich taste that elevates the burger experience.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your burger with toppings like avocado and cheese to suit your preferences.
- Healthy Choice: These burgers are low in calories yet filling, making them perfect for guilt-free indulgence.
- Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the mushrooms ahead of time for quick assembly on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment on hand makes all the difference when grilling these delightful burgers.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Shallow dish or zip-top bag
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Provides the direct heat needed for achieving that perfect char on your mushrooms.
- Whisk: Ensures thorough mixing of the marinade ingredients for even flavor distribution.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping and handling your Portobello caps without damaging them.
Ingredients
These Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers are marinated in a savory balsamic blend, grilled until tender and smoky, then stacked on toasted buns with all your favorite fixings. Hearty, healthy, and absolutely delicious, they’re the perfect plant-based alternative for your next cookout or weeknight dinner.
For the Marinade
- 4 large Portobello mushroom caps, stems removed
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Sliced cheese (optional: provolone, Swiss, or vegan cheese)
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Red onion slices
- Avocado or smashed avocado
- Your favorite burger sauce or aioli
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms
Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel. Score the tops slightly with a knife to help absorb the marinade.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a shallow dish or zip-top bag, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Marinate
Place mushrooms gill-side down in the marinade. Let sit for 20–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Preheat Grill
Heat grill or grill pan to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill Mushrooms
Grill marinated mushrooms for 4–5 minutes per side until tender and nicely charred. Add cheese in the last minute if using.
Step 6: Assemble Burgers
Place grilled mushrooms on toasted buns and layer with your favorite toppings—lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, and sauce.
How to Serve Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers offer a delicious and satisfying plant-based option for any meal. You can customize these burgers with various toppings to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Classic Toppings
- Lettuce: Crisp romaine or butter lettuce adds freshness and crunch.
- Tomato: Slices of ripe tomato provide juiciness and flavor contrast.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a sharp bite that complements the mushrooms.
Gourmet Additions
- Avocado: Creamy avocado or smashed avocado adds richness and healthy fats.
- Cheese: Melted provolone, Swiss, or vegan cheese can enhance the burger’s flavor profile.
- Special Sauce: Drizzle your favorite burger sauce or aioli for an extra layer of taste.
Unique Twists
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love heat, pickled jalapeños add a zesty kick.
- Crispy Fried Onions: Add crispy fried onions for texture and a savory crunch.
How to Perfect Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
To ensure your Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers are flavorful and perfectly grilled, follow these handy tips.
- Choose Fresh Mushrooms: Make sure your Portobello mushrooms are firm and free from blemishes for the best taste and texture.
- Score the Caps: Lightly scoring the mushroom caps helps absorb more marinade, enhancing flavor.
- Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the mushrooms for up to an hour for deeper flavor penetration.
- Preheat the Grill Properly: Ensuring your grill is preheated prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Watch Cooking Time: Grill mushrooms just until tender; overcooking can make them soggy.
- Experiment with Toppings: Customize with different sauces or unique toppings to find your ideal combination.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Pairing sides with your Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great side dishes to serve alongside:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to savory burgers. Bake or fry until golden brown.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that complements the rich mushrooms perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers offer vibrant colors and flavors on the plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn on the cob is a sweet summer staple; grill it for added smokiness.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds a nutritious touch that balances the meal beautifully.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings comfort food vibes to your cookout, pairing well with hearty burgers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not marinating long enough: Allowing the mushrooms to marinate for at least 20 minutes is crucial. This ensures they soak up all the flavor from the balsamic blend.
- Skipping the scoring step: Failing to score the tops of the mushrooms can lead to uneven marination. Scoring helps the marinade penetrate better, resulting in tastier burgers.
- Overcooking the mushrooms: Cooking the mushrooms for too long can make them tough. Aim for 4–5 minutes per side on medium heat for a tender texture.
- Choosing the wrong buns: Using stale or flimsy buns can ruin your burger experience. Opt for fresh, sturdy buns that can hold all your toppings without falling apart.
- Ignoring toppings: Missing out on toppings can lead to a bland burger. Be creative with your choices—avocado, cheese, and sauces elevate flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers in an airtight container.
- They will last for 3–5 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep any toppings separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Freeze cooked mushroom burgers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat burgers for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm burgers for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers ahead of time?
You can prepare the marinade and clean the mushrooms in advance. Marinate them just before grilling for optimal flavor.
How do I know when my grilled mushrooms are done?
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers should be tender and have nice grill marks after about 4-5 minutes per side.
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
While Portobello mushrooms are ideal due to their size and texture, you can experiment with large shiitake or king oyster mushrooms as substitutes.
What toppings go well with Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers?
Classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado work well. You can also add unique options like pickled jalapeños or feta cheese for extra flavor.
Are these burgers gluten-free?
To make your Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers gluten-free, simply use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead of traditional burger buns.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They serve as a hearty plant-based option that everyone can enjoy at cookouts or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize your toppings or swap ingredients based on what you have available. We encourage you to try this recipe and savor its rich flavors!
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Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers are a delicious and satisfying plant-based option that everyone will love. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy weeknight dinners, these burgers feature large, meaty Portobello mushrooms marinated in a flavorful balsamic blend. Grilled to smoky perfection, they are tender and juicy, making them an excellent alternative to traditional beef burgers. Customize your burger with various toppings like creamy avocado, fresh lettuce, and tangy cheese for an elevated taste experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor!
Ingredients
- 4 large Portobello mushroom caps
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns and desired toppings (e.g., cheese, lettuce, tomato)
Instructions
- Clean the mushrooms with a damp paper towel and score the tops lightly.
- In a shallow dish or zip-top bag, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the mushrooms gill-side down in the mixture for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the mushrooms for 4–5 minutes per side until tender and charred; add cheese in the last minute if desired.
- Assemble on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (150g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg