Balsamic Portobello Burgers

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

Savor the rich, umami flavor of grilled Portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar, served on a toasted bun with fresh toppings.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:14:02.418Z

These Balsamic Portobello Burgers are a fantastic vegetarian option that packs a flavor punch. The mushrooms are marinated in a rich balsamic glaze, grilled to perfection, and served with your favorite burger toppings. Ideal for BBQs or weeknight dinners!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Deep, savory flavor from the balsamic marinade
  • Hearty and satisfying alternative to traditional burgers
  • Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Health Benefits of Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are low in calories yet high in fiber, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Rich in antioxidants, Portobello mushrooms help combat oxidative stress in the body, contributing to overall health.

Additionally, these mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, particularly riboflavin and niacin, which play crucial roles in energy production and metabolism. Incorporating Portobello mushrooms into your meals can boost your nutritional intake while satisfying your taste buds.

Perfect Pairings for Balsamic Portobello Burgers

When serving Balsamic Portobello Burgers, consider pairing them with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors of the burgers, while a salad adds a refreshing crunch. You can also drizzle a light vinaigrette over the salad to enhance the overall experience.

For beverages, a chilled glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a light-bodied red wine can elevate your meal. The acidity in the wine will beautifully balance out the rich umami of the mushrooms, creating a delightful dining experience.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Balsamic Portobello Burgers to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dollop of your favorite hot sauce on top of the grilled mushrooms. Alternatively, you could layer on some avocado for a creamy texture that pairs well with the savory flavors.

If you're looking to experiment with different cheeses, consider using goat cheese or pepper jack for a unique twist. Each cheese adds its own flavor profile, allowing you to create a burger that is truly unique to your palate.

Ingredients

For the Burgers

  • 4 large Portobello mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 whole wheat burger buns
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 tomato, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Feel free to customize your toppings!

Instructions

Marinate the Mushrooms

In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the Portobello mushrooms and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Mushrooms

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated mushrooms for about 5 minutes on each side, or until tender and juicy.

Assemble the Burgers

Toast the whole wheat burger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes. Place the grilled mushrooms on the buns and top with fresh spinach, tomato slices, red onion, and feta cheese if using.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Balsamic Portobello Burgers!

Pair with sweet potato fries for a complete meal!

Tips for Grilling Portobello Mushrooms

To achieve the best flavor and texture when grilling Portobello mushrooms, make sure to preheat your grill properly. A hot grill ensures that the mushrooms sear nicely, locking in their juices and enhancing their natural umami flavor.

It's also important to clean the mushrooms thoroughly before marinating. Gently wipe them with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid soaking them in water, as this can make them soggy and less enjoyable when grilled.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover Balsamic Portobello Burgers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled mushrooms can last for up to 3 days, while the toppings should be enjoyed fresh for the best flavor and texture.

To reheat the mushrooms, place them on a hot grill or stovetop pan for a few minutes until warmed through. This helps to retain their juiciness while avoiding overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular mushrooms instead of Portobello?

Yes, but Portobello mushrooms give a heartier texture and flavor.

→ How long can I marinate the mushrooms?

You can marinate them for up to 2 hours for more flavor.

→ Can I make these burgers vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ What sides pair well with these burgers?

Sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables make great sides!

Balsamic Portobello Burgers

Savor the rich, umami flavor of grilled Portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar, served on a toasted bun with fresh toppings.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Easy Comfort Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Burgers

  1. 4 large Portobello mushrooms
  2. 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  4. 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. 4 whole wheat burger buns
  7. 1 cup fresh spinach
  8. 1 tomato, sliced
  9. 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  10. 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the Portobello mushrooms and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 02

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated mushrooms for about 5 minutes on each side, or until tender and juicy.

Step 03

Toast the whole wheat burger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes. Place the grilled mushrooms on the buns and top with fresh spinach, tomato slices, red onion, and feta cheese if using.

Step 04

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Balsamic Portobello Burgers!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 8g