The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and hearty textures, making it perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy lunch at home. This recipe features marinated portobello mushrooms that are grilled to perfection and topped with delicious ingredients like melted Swiss cheese, grilled red onions, fresh tomatoes, spinach, and creamy avocado. It’s an excellent choice for vegetarians and meat lovers alike, offering a satisfying experience in every bite.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Burger
- How to Make The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 2: Marinate the Mushrooms
- Step 3: Heat Your Grill
- Step 4: Grill the Mushrooms
- Step 5: Add Cheese
- Step 6: Grill Onions and Buns
- Step 7: Assemble Your Burgers
- How to Serve The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Classic Presentation
- Gourmet Style
- Fun and Festive
- Healthy Pairing
- How to Perfect The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Reheating The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger so special?
- Can I customize my grilled portobello mushroom burger?
- How do I know when the mushrooms are done?
- What side dishes pair well with this mushroom burger?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Experience: The marination process enhances the umami taste of the portobello mushrooms, creating a burger that’s packed with flavor.
- Healthy Alternative: This burger is lower in calories compared to traditional beef burgers while still being filling and nutritious.
- Quick Preparation: With just 60 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending all day cooking.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize toppings or swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend cookout, this grilled portobello mushroom burger will impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To make The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, gather your kitchen tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or indoor grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Basting brush
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or indoor grill pan: Provides even cooking and adds that desirable charred flavor to the mushrooms.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the mushrooms absorb all the flavors.
- Basting brush: Helps apply marinade evenly while grilling, enhancing moisture and flavor during cooking.
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 tablespoons 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)

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, chopped rosemary, and Montreal steak seasoning until combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Mushrooms
Place the portobello mushroom caps in the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently using a spoon to coat evenly. Let them sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, turning occasionally.
Step 3: Heat Your Grill
Preheat your grill or indoor grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, brush the grill grate with oil or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 4: Grill the Mushrooms
Place the marinated mushroom caps on the grill. Reserve some marinade for basting. Grill each side for 5–7 minutes until tender. Baste frequently with reserved marinade for extra flavor.
Step 5: Add Cheese
During the last minute of grilling, place thin slices of Swiss cheese on top of each mushroom cap to melt slightly.
Step 6: Grill Onions and Buns
While mushrooms are grilling, add thick slices of red onion to the grill. Cook for approximately 1 minute on each side until nice grill marks appear. Toast whole wheat buns on the grill until golden brown.
Step 7: Assemble Your Burgers
To finish assembling your burger, start by placing baby spinach inside each bun. Next, add grilled portobello mushrooms topped with melted cheese. Finish with grilled onions, sliced tomatoes, and avocado before adding the top half of the bun.
Enjoy your deliciously satisfying Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger!
How to Serve The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
Serving the best grilled portobello mushroom burger is all about enhancing its rich flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your burger experience.
Classic Presentation
- On a Plate: Serve the burger on a plate with a side of fries for a traditional feel.
- With Pickles: Add dill pickles for a tangy crunch that complements the burger’s savory taste.
Gourmet Style
- With Arugula: Replace spinach with arugula for a peppery twist that adds sophistication.
- Drizzled with Balsamic Reduction: A balsamic glaze adds sweetness and enhances the umami of the mushrooms.
Fun and Festive
- Sliders: Make mini versions for parties, perfect for sharing or appetizers.
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the burgers wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.
Healthy Pairing
- With Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad on the side balances the richness of the burger.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a healthy alternative to regular fries while adding natural sweetness.
How to Perfect The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
Perfecting your grilled portobello mushroom burger requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your burger turns out delicious every time.
- Marinate Properly: Allow the mushrooms to soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes. This enhances their flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the mushrooms on it. This helps achieve those lovely grill marks.
- Baste While Cooking: Keep brushing the mushrooms with leftover marinade while grilling. This keeps them moist and flavorful.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for good-quality Swiss cheese to get that perfect melt and flavor combination.
- Don’t Overcook: Grill until just tender, usually about 5-7 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like roasted red peppers or spicy aioli for extra zing.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
Pairing side dishes with your grilled portobello mushroom burger can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some tasty side options that complement this delicious burger perfectly.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a sweet contrast, making them an excellent choice alongside your burger.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and acidity, balancing out the flavors of the burger.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers bring color and additional nutrients to your plate.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs offers protein and fiber, making it a nutritious side option.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is always a hit during grilling season and pairs wonderfully with mushroom burgers.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges give you that satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping in sauces.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of the hearty burger.
- Chips & Guacamole: Crunchy chips paired with creamy guacamole make for an irresistible snack before or after enjoying your burger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the mushrooms can lead to bland flavors. Always let them soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes to enhance their taste.
- Overcooking the Mushrooms: If you grill the mushrooms too long, they can become rubbery. Aim for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until tender.
- Neglecting to Toast Buns: Using un-toasted buns can result in a soggy burger. Toast your whole wheat buns for added texture and flavor.
- Forgetting Cheese Placement: Adding cheese too early can cause it to burn. Place the Swiss cheese on top of the mushrooms during the last minute of cooking for perfect meltiness.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Relying on stale veggies can ruin your burger’s freshness. Always use fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, and a perfectly ripe avocado for a vibrant flavor.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover burgers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Wrap individual burgers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat wrapped burgers for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place burgers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and rewarm burgers for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger so special?
The combination of marinated portobello mushrooms, melted Swiss cheese, and fresh toppings creates a rich flavor that pleases even meat lovers.
Can I customize my grilled portobello mushroom burger?
Absolutely! You can add different cheeses, skip certain toppings, or even use different types of buns to suit your taste preferences.
How do I know when the mushrooms are done?
Mushrooms should be tender but not mushy. Look for a juicy texture after grilling them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side.
What side dishes pair well with this mushroom burger?
Fries, salads, or grilled vegetables complement The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings and sauces. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or enjoying it as a healthy lunch option, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try and discover your new favorite plant-based meal!
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The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and hearty meal. This flavorful burger features succulent marinated portobello mushrooms grilled to perfection, topped with melted Swiss cheese, grilled red onions, fresh tomatoes, creamy avocado, and vibrant spinach. It’s an excellent option for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike, offering a satisfying bite that bursts with rich flavors. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy lunches at home, this burger is versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings. Quick to prepare in just 60 minutes, it’s a delightful and nutritious alternative to traditional beef burgers.
Ingredients
- 4 portobello mushroom caps
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
- 1.5 tsp steak seasoning
- 4 oz reduced fat Swiss cheese (sliced)
- 4 thick slices red onion
- 4 thin slices tomato
- 1/2 avocado (sliced)
- baby spinach
- 4 whole wheat low-calorie buns
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, rosemary, and steak seasoning.
- Toss the portobello caps in the marinade and let them sit for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill over medium heat and brush the grate with oil.
- Grill the mushrooms for 5–7 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade.
- In the last minute of grilling, add Swiss cheese on top of each mushroom.
- Grill red onion slices until charred; toast buns until golden brown.
- Assemble by placing spinach on the bun, adding grilled mushrooms topped with cheese, followed by onions, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 15mg