Big Flavor, No Bull: Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers

Not all burgers need to bleed. Some just need bold flavor, juicy texture, and a little smoky heat. These grilled portobello mushroom burgers are a summer favorite—simple to make, endlessly customizable, and 100% cruelty-free.

If you’ve never grilled a portobello, get ready for a game-changer. These fungi are meaty, savory, and soak up flavor like sponges. A quick marinade brings the umami—balsamic, soy, garlic, and a hint of smoke—while grilling gives them the char and chew you’d expect from any good burger.

The Method

Start with the largest portobellos you can find. Clean them gently and remove the stems (you can save those for stir-fry or broth). Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce or tamari, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade is your secret weapon—just 20 minutes transforms the mushrooms.

While they soak, prep your grill (or a stovetop grill pan). Cook each mushroom cap for about 4–5 minutes per side. You’re looking for tender flesh and caramelized grill marks. Toss your buns on for the last minute to get a gentle toast.

Toppings? Dealer’s choice.

Stack it high with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and red onion. Or go nostalgic with just ketchup, mustard, and a crispy pickle. Want to add a slice of vegan cheese while the mushrooms are still hot? Do it.

Pro Tip: Serve these burgers with grilled corn on the cob and a side of potato salad for a backyard BBQ that’s big on flavor and small on harm.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

4 large portobello mushroom caps, stems removed 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp smoked paprika Salt and pepper, to taste 4 burger buns (vegan) Toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, vegan mayo, mustard, pickles—your choice!

Instructions:

Marinate mushrooms: In a shallow dish, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add mushrooms and coat well. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes. Grill: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook mushrooms 4–5 minutes per side, until tender and grill-marked. Toast buns: Lightly toast buns on the grill for 1–2 minutes. Assemble: Stack mushrooms on buns with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.