Sliders with Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Name: Sliders with Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large portobello mushrooms; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 slider buns; 1 cup arugula; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 4 tablespoons mayonnaise or vegan alternative; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Quick Meals Collection

I am thrilled to share my recipe for Sliders with Grilled Portobello Mushrooms! These sliders have become a favorite in my household, especially during weekend gatherings. The juicy, meaty texture of the portobello mushrooms is truly satisfying, and they soak up the grilled flavors wonderfully. Each bite bursts with umami, making them a hit for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Paired with a tangy sauce and fresh toppings, these sliders are an easy and delightful option for a fun meal or appetizer.

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:29:34.321Z

During one of our casual summer cookouts, I decided to experiment with portobello mushrooms as a slider filling. I marinated them in a blend of balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then grilled them until they were perfectly charred. The result was so good that I chose to make them a regular feature at our gatherings. Each slider was not just filling but also a burst of flavor, impressing all our friends.

I found that using fresh herbs in the topping added an extra layer of freshness that really complemented the smoky taste of the mushrooms. Adding a creamy sauce balanced out the textures beautifully. Trust me; these sliders will elevate any party!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Savory grilled mushrooms that provide a hearty texture
Customizable toppings to suit every palate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any gathering

      

Perfecting the Portobello

Choosing the right portobello mushrooms is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your sliders. Look for large, firm mushrooms with a smooth, dark cap free of blemishes. Fresh mushrooms should feel sturdy, and if they are damp, it indicates they are on the brink of spoiling. Using well-aged balsamic vinegar will elevate the marination process, adding a rich and complex tang that enhances the natural umami of the mushrooms.

The marination time is also key. While a minimum of 15 minutes will impart flavor, allowing the mushrooms to soak for up to an hour can yield even deeper taste outcomes. If you're short on time, consider lightly scoring the mushroom caps with a knife to help the marinade penetrate deeper. This small technique can make a significant impact on flavor absorption.

Grilling Insights

When grilling your portobello mushrooms, ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium heat. This temperature is ideal for achieving nice grill marks while allowing the mushrooms to cook evenly without drying out. You should see the mushrooms sizzling; this indicates they are sealing in moisture. Flip them carefully, using a spatula to avoid tearing, and grill for 5-6 minutes on each side until they're tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.

For an added level of flavor, consider brushing the mushrooms with a small amount of marinade while they grill. Keep an eye on them to prevent charring, as you want them to be deeply caramelized rather than burnt. Once they are done, they should have glossy, well-defined grill marks and a juicy interior—these are signs that they are perfectly cooked and ready to build your sliders.

Assembly and Serving Suggestions

To assemble your sliders, lightly toasting the buns is essential as it adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft mushrooms. You can do this directly on the grill for about 1-2 minutes. This quick toast will also help prevent the buns from becoming soggy once the toppings are added. Spread the mayonnaise generously, as it not only adds creaminess but also contributes flavor that balances the earthy mushrooms.

Feel free to get creative with toppings beyond arugula and cherry tomatoes. Sliced avocado, pickled red onions, or even a slice of cheese can elevate your sliders to another level. For those looking for spicy notes, adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can provide an exciting contrast to the savory mushrooms. These sliders are highly customizable and can be served as a main or an elegant appetizer, perfect for gatherings or quiet weekend dinners.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sliders with Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

For the Sliders

4 large portobello mushrooms
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 slider buns
1 cup arugula
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 tablespoons mayonnaise or vegan alternative
Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare all ingredients before cooking for ease.

Instructions

Marinate the Mushrooms

In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Add the portobello mushrooms, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Mushrooms

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the marinated mushrooms for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly on the grill. Spread a spoon of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place the grilled mushrooms on top, add a handful of arugula and a few cherry tomato halves, and close with the top bun.

Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with toppings like avocado, pickles, or different sauces for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan on making the sliders ahead of time, you can prepare the marinated mushrooms in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they continue to marinate. When ready to grill, allow the mushrooms to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking, promoting even grilling.

Once your sliders are assembled, they can be kept at room temperature for up to two hours before they need to be refrigerated. I recommend storing the toppings separately and assembling them only just before serving to maintain that fresh crunch and avoid sogginess from the mayonnaise.

Variations to Experiment With

These sliders offer ample opportunity for variations. If you're looking for a smoky flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the marinade. Alternatively, you could infuse the mushrooms with a hint of spice by incorporating chili flakes or chipotle powder into your balsamic mixture before marinating.

For a different textural experience, swap out the slider buns with lettuce wraps for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative. This allows the bold flavors of the grilled mushrooms and toppings to shine through without the heaviness of bread. You can also try using a variety of edible mushrooms to see how the flavors change in your sliders; shiitake and king oyster mushrooms are fantastic alternatives that also incorporate their unique tastes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mushrooms turn out too watery, it may be that they were overcooked or the wrong size was used. Ensure to choose mushrooms that are fresh and firm to the touch; avoid mushrooms that are already wet. It's also crucial not to overcrowd the grill or pan, as steaming will occur rather than grilling, leading to mushiness.

In case you find your sliders lacking flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the mushrooms before grilling. Salt can help amplify the natural flavors of the ingredients. Additionally, if you're looking for more zing, try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished sliders to brighten up the flavors just before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes, shiitake or button mushrooms can also be used, but they may require different cooking times.

→ How can I make these gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps as an alternative to traditional buns.

→ Can I prepare the mushrooms in advance?

You can marinate the mushrooms a few hours ahead of grilling. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

These sliders pair well with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or a side of grilled vegetables.