Name: Portobello Mushroom Burger
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For the Fajita Seasoning:; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ tsp cumin; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; ¼ tsp salt (add more to taste); 4 cloves garlic (minced); For the Shrimp:; 1.5 lbs raw large shrimp (about 15/20 or 26/30 count per pound, peeled and deveined); For the Veggies & Other Ingredients:; 2 tbsp olive oil (divided); 3 medium bell peppers (tri-colored: red, yellow, and green), thinly sliced; 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed, plus extra); ¼ cup fresh basil or cilantro (chopped); 1.5 cups cooked corn kernels; ½ tsp chili powder; 15 oz canned black beans (drained and rinsed); Lime-Flavored Rice:; 2 cups cooked white rice; ¼ tsp salt; 1 small lime (freshly squeezed juice); Optional Garnish:; Lime slices; Sliced avocado; Salsa

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If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional beef burgers, the Portobello Mushroom Burger is the perfect choice. With juicy, marinated mushrooms acting as the “patty,” this burger is packed with savory flavors and a satisfying meaty texture. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply want to try something new, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress. Perfect for grilling season or any time you’re craving a lighter, healthier burger option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Portobello Mushroom Burger offers all the satisfaction of a classic burger, but with a lighter, plant-based twist. The mushrooms are marinated in balsamic vinegar and spices, infusing them with rich, smoky flavors that complement the tender texture. Topped with fresh vegetables and your favorite condiments, this burger is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s quick to make, requiring just 30 minutes from prep to plate. Portobello Mushroom Burger

Ingredients

For the Mushroom Burgers:

4 large organic portobello mushrooms, stems trimmed
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp coconut aminos, tamari, or soy sauce
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp fine sea salt

For Serving:

4 burger buns
4 slices steak tomatoes
4 slices red onion
Lettuce or greens of choice
Vegan mayo (or other condiments)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare Mushrooms:
Place the portobello mushrooms, tops up, in a shallow dish.
Make Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, coconut aminos (or tamari/soy sauce), onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and sea salt. Pour the marinade over the mushrooms and use a pastry brush to coat the mushroom caps evenly. Flip the mushrooms over and brush the marinade into the gills. Let the mushrooms marinate for 10 minutes, then flip them and marinate the other side for another 10 minutes.
Prepare for Serving:
While the mushrooms are marinating, prepare the other ingredients for serving, including slicing the burger buns, tomatoes, onions, and washing the lettuce or greens of your choice.
Cook Mushrooms:
Heat a cast iron grill pan (or outdoor grill) over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes per side, brushing with any leftover marinade if desired. Be careful not to make the mushrooms too soggy if using a skillet.
Assemble the Burgers:
On each burger bun, layer lettuce, a cooked portobello mushroom, cheese slices (if using), tomato slices, and onion. Top with mayo or your favorite condiments.
Serve:
Serve immediately with your favorite sides like steak fries, sweet potato fries, or a Brussels quinoa salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 burgers
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Feel free to add a slice of vegan or regular cheese if you’d like a cheesy mushroom burger. Cheddar, Swiss, or vegan mozzarella work well.
Extra Toppings: For added flavor, try topping your burger with avocado, sautéed spinach, or roasted red peppers.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the regular burger buns with gluten-free buns to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
Spicy Kick: Add some sriracha or spicy mustard to the condiments for an extra kick of heat.

Storage/Reheating

These burgers are best served fresh, but you can store any leftover mushrooms and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the mushrooms in a skillet or in the microwave and assemble the burgers just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the mushroom burgers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the mushrooms ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill them as directed.

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?

Portobello mushrooms are ideal for their size and texture, but you can also use large cremini mushrooms or maitake mushrooms as a substitute.

Can I cook the mushrooms on a regular grill?

Yes, you can cook the mushrooms on an outdoor grill. Just be sure to place them on a grill-safe tray or use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates.

What kind of bun should I use?

Any type of burger bun works, but for a healthier option, consider using whole grain or gluten-free buns. You can also use lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a low-carb alternative.

Can I add other vegetables to the burger?

Yes! Sautéed onions, grilled zucchini, or roasted bell peppers make excellent additions to your portobello mushroom burger.

Can I make this recipe without balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red vinegar or apple cider vinegar as an alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use vegan mayo and skip any non-vegan cheese or condiments.

Can I bake the mushrooms instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake the mushrooms at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, if you don’t have access to a grill or grill pan.

How do I prevent the mushrooms from getting soggy?

Make sure to brush the mushrooms lightly with marinade and avoid soaking them in the liquid. Cooking them on high heat will also help prevent excess moisture from accumulating.

Can I add a sauce to this burger?

Definitely! A tangy BBQ sauce, garlic aioli, or a creamy tahini sauce would all complement the flavors of the mushroom burger wonderfully.

Conclusion

Portobello Mushroom Burgers are a flavorful, satisfying alternative to traditional beef burgers. With their smoky marinade, tender texture, and endless customization options, they make for a perfect weeknight meal or a fun, plant-based twist for your next cookout. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a healthier option, this burger is sure to become a new favorite! Enjoy!

Portobello Mushroom Burger