Grilled Portobello Burgers Recipe

Dive into the world of flavors with this appetizing grilled portobello mushroom burger. This recipe brings together the earthy richness of portobello mushrooms, the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, and the sweetness of honey, creating a mouthwatering burger that's sure to impress. It's perfect for a weekend cookout or a family dinner and is a delightful alternative for those seeking a vegetarian option.

Photos of Grilled Portobello Burgers Recipe

Portobello mushrooms are the star ingredient of this recipe, and while they are broadly available in most supermarkets, they might not be a regular in your shopping list. These large, flat mushrooms are known for their meaty texture and rich, earthy flavor, making them a fantastic substitute for meat in a burger. Also, the recipe uses balsamic vinegar, which brings a sweet and tangy taste that beautifully complements the mushrooms. If you don't have it in your pantry, it can be easily found in the vinegar aisle of your local supermarket.

Ingredients for Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Olive oil: Olive oil is used for its rich flavor and health benefits. It helps the marinade stick to the mushrooms and keeps them from sticking to the grill.

Garlic: Garlic brings a pungent and spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens with cooking.

Balsamic vinegar: This gives a sweet and tangy taste to the mushrooms, enhancing their natural flavor.

Soy sauce: This adds a deep umami flavor to the marinade, giving the mushrooms a meaty taste.

Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the vinegar and the saltiness of the soy sauce.

Portobello Mushroom: These are large and meaty, perfect for grilling and using as a burger patty.

Hamburger buns: These are used to sandwich the grilled mushroom and your selected toppings. Go for whole grain for a healthier option.

Cheese: This is optional but adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the burger. Use any type you prefer.

Arugula: This peppery green adds a fresh crispness to the burger. It can be substituted with lettuce if preferred.

Tomato: Adds juiciness and freshness to the burger.

Red onion: Bring a sharp, astringent flavor that contrasts well with the other ingredients.

Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy and tangy element to the burger. Can be substituted with other sauces if preferred.

One reader, Gerhardt Bates says:

This grilled portobello mushroom burger recipe is a game-changer! The marinade is bursting with flavor, and the mushrooms are so juicy and satisfying. It's a delightful vegetarian option that even meat lovers will adore. Plus, it's so easy to customize with your favorite toppings. A definite must-try!

Gerhardt Bates

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

How to prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, butter, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and season with salt and pepper.

How to marinate the portobello mushrooms: Gently remove the stems from the portobello mushrooms and scrape out the gills using a spoon. Place the mushrooms in a 9x13 inch pan, pour the marinade over them, and let them soak for 10 minutes.

How to grill the portobello mushrooms: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated mushrooms on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and juicy.

How to assemble the burger: Place the grilled portobello mushrooms on the hamburger buns and add optional toppings such as cheese, arugula, tomato, red onion, and mayonnaise according to your preference.

How To Make Grilled Portobello Burgers

With the depth of flavor of these portobello burgers, you won’t really notice the lack of meat. Soft buns cradle a meaty, savory vegetarian-friendly patty.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
1tbspbutter,melted
2garlic cloves,minced
¼cupbalsamic vinegar
1tbspsoy sauce
1tbsphoney
salt and pepper
portobello mushroom
4hamburger buns

For Optional Toppings:

cheese
arugula
tomato
red onion
mayonnaise

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, butter, garlic, soy sauce, honey, salt and pepper.
Prepare the portobello mushrooms by gently removing stem from the mushrooms. Using a spoon scrape out the gills.
Set the mushrooms in a 9×13 inch pan. Add the marinade and soak for 10 minutes.
Preheat the grill to medium high heat. Place the mushrooms on the grill, then grill each side for 5 minutes.
Remove from grill and put on a bun with favorite toppings.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 206.96kcal
Fat: 7.87g
Saturated Fat: 2.67g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.59g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.15g
Carbohydrates: 28.94g
Fiber: 1.01g
Sugar: 9.40g
Protein: 4.71g
Cholesterol: 7.63mg
Sodium: 434.35mg
Calcium: 83.20mg
Potassium: 101.24mg
Iron: 1.70mg
Vitamin A: 24.34µg
Vitamin C: 1.04mg

Expert Tip for Achieving the Ideal Texture in Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers

When grilling portobello mushrooms, it's important to monitor them closely as they can become too soft if overcooked. Aim for a tender but firm texture. The mushrooms should still hold their shape well enough to serve as a burger patty. Also, removing the gills of the mushroom allows it to absorb the marinade better, resulting in a more flavorful burger.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Prep ahead: Marinate the portobello mushrooms the night before to save time on the day of grilling. This allows the flavors to infuse, making the mushrooms even more delicious.

Use a grill pan: If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stovetop can be a time-saving alternative for cooking the portobello mushrooms. It provides those beautiful grill marks and delicious flavor without the need for an outdoor setup.

Multi-task: While the mushrooms are marinating, use that time to prep the optional toppings and set up the burger buns. This way, everything is ready to go when the mushrooms come off the grill.

Pre-slice toppings: Pre-slice the cheese, tomatoes, and onions in advance to streamline the assembly process. This ensures that everything is readily available when it's time to build the burgers.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Portobello Burgers Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, nutty flavor similar to butter and works well for grilling the portobello mushrooms.
balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar provides a tangy acidity similar to balsamic vinegar and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and offers a similar savory, umami flavor.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a sweet, caramelized flavor that can replace honey in the marinade for the grilled portobello mushrooms.
hamburger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier alternative with a nutty flavor and hearty texture.
cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese can be used as a dairy-free alternative for those following a plant-based diet.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise for topping the grilled portobello mushroom burger.

Essential Tools for Making a Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Olive oil: A staple in many recipes, olive oil is used for marinating, grilling, and adding flavor to the portobello mushrooms.
Butter: Butter is used in the marinade to add richness and flavor to the grilled portobello mushrooms.
Garlic: The cloves of garlic are minced and used to infuse the marinade with a delicious, aromatic flavor.
Balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar is a key ingredient in the marinade, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to the grilled portobello mushrooms.
Soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory, umami flavor to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste of the grilled portobello mushrooms.
Honey: Honey is used to balance the flavors in the marinade, adding a touch of sweetness to complement the other ingredients.
Salt and pepper: These seasonings are used to enhance the flavors of the marinade and the grilled portobello mushrooms.
Grill: The grill is used to cook the portobello mushrooms, imparting a smoky flavor and charred texture to the burgers.
Hamburger buns: The buns are used to sandwich the grilled portobello mushrooms, creating a delicious and satisfying burger.
Optional toppings: Toppings such as cheese, arugula, tomato, red onion, and mayonnaise can be added to customize the grilled portobello mushroom burgers to personal preference.

Storing and Freezing Guidelines for Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers

To store leftover grilled portobello mushroom burgers, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the burgers, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped burgers in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen grilled portobello mushroom burgers can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of burgers from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat the burgers, you can either microwave them for a minute or two until heated through or place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. If the burgers seem dry after reheating, you can brush them with a little olive oil or butter to help restore moisture.
If you have leftover marinade, it's best to discard it since it has been in contact with raw mushrooms. For food safety reasons, it's not recommended to reuse the marinade unless you boil it for several minutes to kill any harmful bacteria.

How To Reheat Leftover Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover portobello mushroom burger on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the mushroom with a little bit of olive oil or butter to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to add some extra flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or dried herbs on top of the mushroom before reheating.
If you have a toaster oven, you can also use it to reheat your portobello mushroom burger. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the burger on the wire rack. Toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method is great if you want to keep the bun crispy and the mushroom juicy.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the portobello mushroom burger on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that the bun may become slightly soggy in the microwave, so if you prefer a crispy bun, you may want to toast it separately.
If you have a grill or a grill pan, you can also use it to reheat your portobello mushroom burger. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and place the burger on the grates. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This method will give your burger a nice smoky flavor and keep the mushroom juicy.
If you want to get creative with your leftover portobello mushroom burger, you can slice it up and use it as a topping for a salad or a wrap. Simply reheat the mushroom using one of the methods above and add it to your favorite greens or tortilla. You can also add some cheese, avocado, or other toppings to make it a complete meal.

Fascinating Facts About Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushroom burgers are a great vegetarian alternative to traditional beef burgers. They are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy option for those looking to cut back on meat consumption. Additionally, portobello mushrooms are a good source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, which can contribute to overall health and well-being. These mushrooms also have a meaty texture and a rich, earthy flavor, making them a satisfying choice for a burger. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to switch things up, grilled portobello mushroom burgers are a delicious and nutritious option for your next cookout.

Budget-Friendly: Is Making Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled portobello mushroom burger recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Portobello mushrooms are a budget-friendly alternative to meat, and the marinade ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10 due to its affordability and delicious flavors. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical and satisfying meal choice.

Is a Portobello Mushroom Burger Healthy?

The grilled portobello mushroom burger recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Portobello mushrooms are low in calories, fat-free, and provide essential nutrients like potassium, selenium, and B vitamins. The marinade ingredients, such as olive oil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar, offer heart-healthy benefits and antioxidants. However, the recipe also includes butter, honey, and soy sauce, which can add extra calories, sugar, and sodium to the dish.

To make this recipe even healthier:

Use whole wheat or multigrain buns for added fiber and nutrients
Opt for low-fat cheese or omit it altogether to reduce saturated fat and calories
Increase the amount of vegetables by adding grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant slices to the burger
Replace the butter with more olive oil or a healthier alternative like mashed avocado
Reduce the amount of honey and soy sauce in the marinade to lower sugar and sodium content
Serve the burger with a side salad or roasted vegetables instead of high-calorie sides like fries

Editor's Take: Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger Recipe Review

This grilled portobello mushroom burger recipe offers a delightful vegetarian option for burger lovers. The marinade infuses the mushrooms with a rich umami flavor, complemented by the balsamic vinegar and soy sauce. The grilling process adds a smoky depth to the mushrooms, creating a satisfying texture. The optional toppings, such as cheese, arugula, and tomato, provide a burst of freshness and additional layers of flavor. Overall, this recipe presents a delicious and wholesome alternative to traditional burgers, perfect for a summer barbecue or a meatless meal option.

Enhance Your Grilled Portobello Burgers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Try grilling some fresh corn on the cob and serve it with a zesty lime butter for a delicious and summery side dish.

Roasted Sweet Potato Fries: Whip up some crispy roasted sweet potato fries seasoned with a blend of spices for a flavorful and healthy accompaniment to your grilled portobello mushroom burger.

Fruit Salad: Create a colorful and refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing to complement the savory flavors of the grilled portobello mushroom burger.

Delicious Vegetarian Burger Alternatives to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them on skewers for a delicious and healthy meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Top grilled chicken with a refreshing mango salsa for a burst of tropical flavor.

Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: Combine quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices to stuff into bell peppers for a nutritious and flavorful dish.

Berry Cobbler: Use fresh or frozen berries to make a sweet and tangy cobbler topped with a buttery crust.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash and blend it with aromatic spices for a creamy and comforting soup.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Portobello Burger

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a rich and creamy mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the fresh flavors of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic piled high on crispy, toasted baguette slices, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry compote and a drizzle of sweetened sour cream for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Grilled Portobello Burgers Recipe:

This grilled portobello mushroom burger recipe is a must-try for all vegetarian and vegan food enthusiasts. The marinade, consisting of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and honey, infuses the mushrooms with a rich umami flavor. The use of olive oil and butter in the marinade ensures a luscious and savory taste. The grilling process enhances the natural earthy flavors of the portobello mushrooms, making them a delectable and satisfying alternative to traditional burgers. With the option to customize toppings with cheese, arugula, tomato, and red onion, this recipe offers a delightful and wholesome dining experience.

Want to share your experience making these delicious Grilled Portobello Burgers or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of mushroom for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of mushrooms, such as portobellini or shiitake, but the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the mushrooms.

Can I marinate the mushrooms for longer than 10 minutes?

Absolutely! Marinating the mushrooms for a longer period, such as 30 minutes to an hour, can enhance the flavor even more.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan-friendly cheese or omit it altogether.

Can I cook the mushrooms on a stovetop instead of a grill?

Yes, you can cook the marinated mushrooms on a stovetop over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes on each side until they are tender and juicy.

What are some creative topping ideas for this burger?

You can get creative with toppings such as caramelized onions, avocado slices, or a tangy slaw to add extra flavor and texture to your grilled portobello mushroom burger.