The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is a delicious and satisfying meal that can impress even the most dedicated meat lovers. This burger combines marinated portobello mushrooms grilled to perfection, topped with melted Swiss cheese, grilled red onions, fresh tomatoes, spinach, and creamy avocado. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings, this recipe showcases the rich flavors and textures of its ingredients, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar and rosemary in the marinade enhances the natural umami flavor of the portobello mushrooms.
- Healthy yet hearty: This burger is low in calories while providing ample protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
- Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this grilled portobello mushroom burger ready in no time.
- Versatile toppings: Customize your burger with various toppings like sautéed bell peppers or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier 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 perfect grill marks while infusing smoky flavors into the mushrooms.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for marinating the mushrooms evenly without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps to mix the marinade thoroughly to ensure all flavors are combined well.
- Basting brush: Perfect for applying marinade during grilling to keep 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 tablespoon 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, low sodium soy sauce, olive oil, chopped rosemary, and Montreal steak seasoning until well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Mushrooms
Place the portobello mushroom caps in the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently using a spoon to ensure they are evenly coated. Let them sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
Heat your grill or indoor grill pan over medium heat. Once heated, brush the grate lightly with oil or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 4: Grill the Mushrooms
Place the marinated mushrooms on the grill. Reserve any remaining marinade for basting later. Grill each side for about 5 to 7 minutes until tender while basting frequently with marinade.
Step 5: Add Cheese
During the last minute of grilling, top each mushroom cap with slices of Swiss cheese so it melts perfectly.
Step 6: Grill Onions and Buns
While your mushrooms are grilling, place thick slices of red onion on the grill. Grill them for about one minute on each side until nicely charred. Also grill your whole wheat buns until they are toasted.
Step 7: Assemble Your Burgers
To finish assembling your burgers, place fresh baby spinach on each bun followed by grilled portobello mushrooms topped with grilled onions, sliced tomatoes, and avocado slices. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger!
How to Serve The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
Serving The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious burger that will satisfy everyone, including meat lovers.
Classic Presentation
- On a Plate: Serve the burger on a colorful plate for an appealing look.
- With a Side Salad: A fresh salad adds crunch and balances the richness of the burger.
Gourmet Touch
- Add a Sauce: Consider drizzling balsamic glaze or aioli to enhance flavors.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or basil can add freshness and visual appeal.
Casual Style
- In a Picnic Basket: Wrap each burger in parchment for easy transport to picnics or outdoor gatherings.
- As Sliders: Cut the burgers into smaller sizes for slider-style servings at parties.
How to Perfect The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
Perfecting The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your burger is always a hit.
- Marinate Well: Allow the mushrooms to soak up the marinade for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Grill at Medium Heat: Cooking at medium heat ensures even cooking without burning.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like tomatoes and spinach add vibrant flavor and nutrients.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try different cheeses or toppings like pesto for variety in taste.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
Pairing side dishes with The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger enhances your meal. Here are some tasty suggestions that complement the flavors perfectly.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries provide a delightful contrast.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness that balances the rich burger.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring vibrant colors and flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with herbs provides a nutritious side option.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and is perfect for summer barbecues.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, making them an irresistible side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the flavor and texture of your burger.
- Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the mushrooms is crucial. Allow them to sit for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This step infuses flavor and ensures tenderness.
- Overcooking the mushrooms: Keep an eye on your grill time. Overcooked mushrooms can become rubbery. Aim for 5 to 7 minutes per side until they are tender.
- Neglecting to baste: Basting with the marinade while grilling adds moisture and flavor. Don’t forget to brush the mushrooms frequently!
- Choosing the wrong cheese: While Swiss cheese pairs beautifully, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Just make sure it melts well on the grilled mushrooms.
- Forgetting about toppings: Toppings elevate your burger’s taste. Fresh spinach, grilled onions, and creamy avocado add texture and nutrition; don’t skip them!
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover burgers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Wrap individual burgers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place burgers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger vegetarian?
You can easily keep this recipe vegetarian by using whole grain buns and fresh vegetables as toppings instead of meat.
What sides pair well with The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger?
Consider serving your burger with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
While portobello mushrooms are ideal due to their size and texture, you can try using large shiitake or cremini mushrooms as alternatives.
How do I customize my portobello mushroom burger?
Feel free to add different sauces, such as pesto or aioli, or switch out toppings like cheese and vegetables based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger is not just a delicious option; it’s also versatile enough to please everyone at your table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe invites creativity—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings! Don’t hesitate; give it a try today!
The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
Indulge in The Best Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger, a hearty yet healthy alternative that even meat lovers will crave. This delicious burger features marinated portobello mushroom caps grilled to perfection and topped with melted Swiss cheese, grilled red onions, fresh tomatoes, baby spinach, and creamy avocado. Perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners, this recipe highlights the rich umami flavors of the mushrooms while remaining low in calories and high in protein. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a weeknight meal, this burger is sure to impress with its satisfying textures and customizable toppings.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
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 Montreal steak seasoning
- 4 thick slices red onion
- 4 oz reduced fat Swiss cheese (sliced thin)
- 4 thin slices tomato
- 1/2 avocado (sliced thin)
- baby spinach
- 4 whole wheat low-calorie buns
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, rosemary, and steak seasoning.
- Add the portobello caps to the marinade and coat evenly; let sit for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill over medium heat and brush with oil.
- Grill the marinated mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes on each side, basting frequently.
- During the last minute of cooking, place Swiss cheese on top of the mushrooms to melt.
- Grill red onion slices for about one minute per side until charred.
- Assemble burgers by layering spinach on buns followed by grilled mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For an added flavor kick, try different marinades or sauces like pesto or aioli. Experiment with various cheese types to find your favorite combination. Use fresh vegetables for enhanced flavor and nutritional value.
