If you’re craving a burger but want something lighter, low-carb, and meat-free, these Grilled Portobello Bun Mushroom Burgers are a brilliant option. Instead of using traditional bread buns, this recipe uses large grilled Portobello mushrooms as both the top and bottom of the burger, sandwiching a flavorful veggie patty and fresh toppings in between. The mushrooms are juicy, meaty, and rich in flavor, making the entire burger feel hearty without the heaviness. This recipe serves 2 and works well for lunch, dinner, or a fun weekend cookout with a twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Portobello Buns:
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4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and gently cleaned
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Veggie Patties:
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1 cup cooked chickpeas or black beans, mashed
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1/2 small onion, finely chopped
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1/4 teaspoon cumin
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt to taste
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1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
For the Burger Filling:
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Slices of tomato
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Lettuce or baby spinach leaves
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Red onion rings
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Cheese slice (optional)
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Ketchup, mustard, or your preferred sauce
How to Make Grilled Portobello Bun Mushroom Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Mushroom Buns
Gently clean the Portobello mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove stems. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and grill mushrooms for 4–5 minutes on each side until soft, juicy, and slightly charred. Set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb extra moisture.
Step 2: Make the Veggie Patties
In a mixing bowl, combine mashed beans, onion, garlic, soy sauce, breadcrumbs, spices, and egg. Mix well and shape into two firm patties. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs. Heat oil in the grill pan and cook the patties for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and crisp. If adding cheese, place it on top during the last minute of grilling to let it melt.
Step 3: Assemble the Burger
Place one grilled Portobello cap, gill-side up, on a plate to use as the bottom bun. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, onion rings, the cooked veggie patty, and a drizzle of your chosen sauce. Top with the second mushroom cap, gill-side down, to complete the burger.
Serving Suggestions
These mushroom bun burgers pair well with a side of cucumber salad, grilled zucchini, or cauliflower mash. You can also serve them with veggie chips or a small bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal.
The Grilled Portobello Bun Mushroom Burger is a smart and tasty choice when you want something wholesome and low on carbs without giving up the full burger experience. Juicy, colorful, and packed with texture, this recipe shows that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring.
