Summer BBQ Burgers: Two Ways

One classic beef burger. One savory portobello burger. All the flavors of a summer cookout.

Nothing says summer quite like the smell of a grill fired up for friends and family. These Summer Barbecue Burgers Two Ways bring the full cookout experience to the table — a classic beef burger and a savory grilled portobello — both loaded with crisp, fresh vegetables and a signature Market Burger Sauce made with barbecue sauce and Pikku Piru hot sauce for the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and tangy flavor.

The best part? Both burgers share the same toppings and sides, so meat lovers and veggie-forward guests can sit down at the same table without anyone compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

For the Patties (Choose One)

  • 1½ pounds ground beef OR

  • 4 large portobello mushroom caps

Burger Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon salt (smoked sea salt if available)

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Market Burger Sauce

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Pikku Piru hot sauce

Toppings

  • 4 burger buns

  • 4 lettuce leaves

  • 1 large tomato, sliced

  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced

  • The Chill Dill pickles

  • 4 slices cheese (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for portobello mushrooms)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Market Burger Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and Pikku Piru hot sauce until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 2: Prepare the Patties

In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

For Beef Burgers:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and gently form into patties about ¾-inch thick. Season both sides evenly with the seasoning blend.

For Portobello Burgers:
Remove the stems from the mushroom caps and gently wipe clean with a damp paper towel. Pat dry thoroughly. Brush both sides with olive oil and season evenly with the seasoning blend. Let rest for 15 minutes while the grill preheats.

Step 3: Grill

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F).

For Beef Burgers:
Grill for 4–5 minutes per side for medium doneness, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. If using cheese, add a slice during the final minute of cooking.

For Portobello Burgers:
Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred around the edges. If using cheese, add a slice during the final minute of cooking.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

Place the buns cut-side down on the grill for 1–2 minutes, until lightly toasted.

Step 5: Build Your Burger

Spread the Market Burger Sauce on both sides of each bun. Layer with lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and your choice of beef patty or grilled portobello mushroom.

Serve immediately and enjoy with your favorite summer cookout sides.

Shop the Market

  • Latimore Valley Farms for ground beef

  • Bennett Run Mushroom Farm for fresh portobello mushrooms

  • The Chill Dill Pickles for crunchy burger toppings

  • Pikku Piru Creations for hot sauce

  • Stoltzfus Family Organic Produce and Latimore Valley Farms for fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions

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