The Best Portobello Mushroom Burger

A Burger That’s Big on Flavor!

Who says a delicious burger has to be made with meat? If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, juicy, and satisfying burger that’s packed with flavor, the Portobello mushroom burger is the perfect choice. It’s smoky, savory, and has a meaty texture that makes every bite incredible.

I first tried a Portobello burger at a summer barbecue when a friend made them for a group of us. I was skeptical at first, but one bite changed everything!

The juicy, grilled mushroom was bursting with flavor, and the toppings made it even better. Since then, I’ve been making these burgers regularly, whether it’s summer grilling season or a quick weeknight dinner.

This burger is also great because it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and totally customizable. Whether you’re a vegetarian, trying to eat healthier, or just want to switch things up, this recipe will become a favorite in your home.

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Why You’ll Love This Portobello Mushroom Burger

• Full of flavor – The mushrooms soak up the marinade like a sponge, giving them a deep, smoky taste.
• Healthy and nutritious – Portobello mushrooms are low in calories but high in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.
• Quick and easy to make – You can have this burger ready in about 30 minutes!
• Great for everyone – Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking for a meat-free meal, this burger satisfies.
• Completely customizable – Add your favorite toppings, sauces, and sides to make it your own.

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Ingredients

For the Mushroom Marinade:

• 2 large Portobello mushroom caps
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Burger:

• 2 burger buns (whole wheat, brioche, or gluten-free)
• 2 slices of cheese (optional, try cheddar, Swiss, or vegan cheese)
• 2 lettuce leaves
• 2 slices of tomato
• 2 slices of red onion
• ¼ cup mashed avocado or mayo (optional)

For Extra Flavor (Optional):

• Pickles or jalapeños
• Sautéed onions or mushrooms
• BBQ sauce, pesto, or spicy mayo

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start cooking, gather these kitchen tools:

• Grill or stovetop pan – For cooking the mushrooms to perfection.
• Small bowl – To mix the marinade.
• Basting brush or spoon – To coat the mushrooms with the marinade.
• Tongs or spatula – For flipping the mushrooms on the grill or pan.
• Knife and cutting board – For slicing toppings like tomatoes and onions.
• Measuring spoons – To ensure the perfect balance of flavors in the marinade.

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Mushrooms

1. Wipe the Portobello mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel. Remove the stems and scrape out the gills with a spoon (optional, but this helps reduce excess moisture).

Step 2: Make the Marinade

2. In a small bowl, mix together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 3: Marinate the Mushrooms

3. Place the mushrooms in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over them and let them soak for at least 15 minutes, flipping halfway to coat both sides.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms

4. Grill method: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Cook the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade as they cook.
5. Stovetop method: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, until tender.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

6. Toast the burger buns for extra flavor.
7. Spread mashed avocado, mayo, or your favorite sauce on the buns.
8. Place the grilled Portobello mushroom on the bottom bun. Add a slice of cheese (if using) and let it melt slightly.
9. Top with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and any extra toppings you love.
10. Cover with the top bun and enjoy!

More Recipes >>>>>> Honey Ginger Chicken Bowl With Yum Yum Sauce

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t rush the marinade – The longer the mushrooms sit, the more flavorful they’ll be! Aim for at least 15-30 minutes.
• Scraping out the gills is optional – It helps reduce moisture but isn’t necessary.
• Choose the right buns – A sturdy bun like brioche or whole wheat holds up best against the juicy mushroom.
• Want extra smokiness? – Add a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade or grill the mushrooms over an open flame.
• Melty cheese tip – If you want melted cheese, place it on the mushroom during the last minute of cooking and cover with a lid.
• Make it a meal – Serve with sweet potato fries, a side salad, or grilled veggies.

Now you’re ready to make the ultimate Portobello mushroom burger!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Portobello mushroom burgers is how customizable they are! Here are some easy swaps and fun variations:

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Balsamic vinegar → Swap with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
• Soy sauce → Use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
• Dijon mustard → Try whole-grain mustard or spicy brown mustard for a bolder taste.
• Olive oil → Use avocado oil or melted butter for a different richness.
• Burger bun → Go bunless with lettuce wraps, use gluten-free buns, or try an English muffin for a fun twist.

Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Garlic Lover’s Burger: Add minced fresh garlic or roasted garlic to the marinade for extra depth.
• Cheesy Delight: Try blue cheese, feta, or pepper jack for a different cheesy experience.
• BBQ Style: Swap balsamic vinegar for BBQ sauce in the marinade and top with crispy onions.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add hummus, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers as toppings.
• Caprese Style: Top with fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze for an Italian touch.

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Serving Suggestions

Wondering what to serve with your Portobello mushroom burger? Here are some great options:

Side Dishes:

• Sweet potato fries – Crispy, slightly sweet, and a perfect match.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy contrast to the juicy burger.
• Grilled vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the flavors.
• Avocado salad – A fresh, creamy salad balances the meal.
• Potato wedges – Classic, crispy, and always a good choice.

Beverage Pairings:

• Fresh lemonade – A bright, refreshing drink.
• Iced tea – Sweetened or unsweetened, it pairs well with the smoky flavors.
• Sparkling water – A great choice if you want something light and bubbly.
• Red wine or craft beer – If you’re feeling fancy, a bold red wine or a hoppy beer works great.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

• Cooked mushrooms: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Burger buns and toppings: Store separately to prevent sogginess.
• Marinated but uncooked mushrooms: Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use short bursts of 30 seconds to avoid making the mushroom rubbery.

Pro Tip: If the mushroom seems dry after reheating, brush it with a little olive oil or extra marinade.

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FAQ

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance. Cooked mushrooms can be stored and reheated as needed.

2. Can I grill these outdoors?

Absolutely! Just preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side.

3. Do I need to remove the gills?

It’s optional. Removing them helps reduce moisture and prevents a slightly earthy taste, but if you don’t mind, you can leave them in.

4. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

You can use lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or even Worcestershire sauce for a different tangy kick.

5. Can I freeze Portobello mushrooms?

Raw mushrooms don’t freeze well due to their high water content, but you can freeze cooked mushrooms. Let them cool, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or pan for best results.

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Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to make the best Portobello mushroom burger! Whether you’re making it for a summer cookout, a quick dinner, or a healthy lunch, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try and let me know how you like it! Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!