The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. This burger is not only rich in flavor and satisfying but also a healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers. With marinated portobello mushrooms grilled to perfection and topped with melted Swiss cheese, fresh veggies, and creamy avocado, even meat lovers will be impressed. It’s a fantastic choice for lunch, dinner, or backyard barbecues.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Experience: The marinated portobello mushrooms deliver an umami-packed taste that rivals any beef burger.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and lower in calories than traditional burgers, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a party dish, it caters to various occasions.
• Veggie-Friendly: A great option for vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or indoor grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Basting brush
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or indoor grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor on the mushrooms.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix the marinade thoroughly with the mushroom caps.
• Whisk: Helps to combine the marinade ingredients evenly for maximum flavor absorption.
• Basting brush: Perfect for applying marinade during grilling to keep the mushrooms moist and flavorful.

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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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, rosemary, and Montreal steak seasoning until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Mushrooms

Place the portobello mushroom caps in the marinade bowl. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Let them stand at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, turning occasionally.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill or indoor grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, brush the grate with oil or lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Mushrooms

Carefully place the marinated mushrooms on the grill. Reserve some marinade for basting. Grill each side for about 5 to 7 minutes or until tender. Brush them frequently with reserved marinade while grilling.

Step 5: Add Cheese

During the last minute of grilling, top each mushroom cap with a slice of Swiss cheese to melt perfectly.

Step 6: Grill Onions and Buns

While grilling mushrooms, add thick slices of red onion to the grill. Cook them for about 1 minute on each side until they are slightly charred. Toast the whole wheat buns until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Burger

To assemble The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, place baby spinach on each toasted bun. Top with grilled portobello mushrooms followed by grilled onions, sliced tomatoes, and avocado. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Serving the best grilled portobello mushroom burger can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this tasty dish.

Classic Style

• With a Side Salad: A fresh garden salad complements the burger’s flavors while adding a healthy crunch.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add a hearty side that pairs perfectly with the grilled flavors of the mushroom.

Gourmet Twist

• Add Sautéed Mushrooms: For mushroom lovers, enhance the burger with extra sautéed mushrooms on top.
• Truffle Aioli: Drizzle truffle aioli over the top for an indulgent and rich flavor.

Fun Variations

• Spicy Mayo: Spread some spicy mayo on the bun for an extra kick.
• Pickled Vegetables: Add pickled red onions or jalapeños for a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich mushrooms.

How to Perfect The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Perfecting your grilled portobello mushroom burger is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips.

• Marinate Well: Ensure you let the mushrooms soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes to absorb maximum flavor.
• Grill at Medium Heat: Cooking at medium heat prevents the mushrooms from drying out while allowing them to become tender and juicy.
• Baste Frequently: Use leftover marinade to baste the mushrooms as they grill; this keeps them moist and flavorful.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs will elevate your burger’s taste significantly.
• Don’t Overcook: Grill until just tender; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different cheeses or toppings like arugula or avocado for unique flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

Pairing sides with your grilled portobello mushroom burger enhances your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries make a great alternative to regular fries.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and texture, balancing out the richness of the burger.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a healthy side that complements grilled dishes well.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn is perfect for summer barbecues and adds vibrant color to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables provides a nutritious boost alongside your burger.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa, providing a hearty option that is also colorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Avoiding these will help you achieve a delicious result.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the mushrooms to marinate means missing out on flavor. Take the time to marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the Mushrooms: Cooking them too long can lead to a rubbery texture. Grill just until tender, about 5 to 7 minutes per side is ideal.
• Neglecting Proper Cheese Melting: Placing cheese on the mushrooms too early can cause it to burn. Add it during the last minute of cooking for perfect melting.
• Using Low-Quality Buns: A soggy bun can ruin your burger experience. Choose whole wheat or sturdy buns that can hold up against juicy toppings.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old veggies takes away from your burger’s freshness. Always opt for fresh tomatoes, spinach, and avocados to elevate your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep grilled portobello mushrooms separate from other ingredients to maintain texture.

Freezing The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

• Wrap each assembled burger tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
• These burgers can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burger on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and warm each side of the burger for about 3-4 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger so special?

The unique combination of marinated portobello mushrooms, melted Swiss cheese, and fresh veggies creates an incredible flavor profile that even non-veggie lovers will enjoy.

How do I customize my Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger?

Feel free to add different toppings like sautéed peppers, jalapeños, or any cheese of your choice. You could also swap out the whole wheat bun for gluten-free alternatives.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative and choose vegan buns. The portobello mushrooms provide great flavor on their own.

How should I store leftovers of my Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or they can be frozen for later use as well.

Final Thoughts

The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is not only flavorful but also versatile. This recipe allows room for customization with various toppings and sauces, making it suitable for any palate. Give it a try and enjoy this satisfying meal any day of the week!