What Can You Substitute for Oregano? Top Alternatives

When you need to substitute oregano, marjoram is the closest replacement (use 1:1 ratio), followed by Italian seasoning blend (use 1.5x amount). For Mediterranean dishes, thyme works well (use 1.5x), while basil suits tomato-based recipes (use equal amount). The best substitute depends on your specific dish and flavor profile needs.

Running out of oregano mid-recipe doesn't have to ruin your cooking. This versatile Mediterranean herb appears in countless Italian, Greek, and Mexican dishes, but several accessible alternatives can save your meal when your spice rack comes up short. Understanding which substitute works best for your specific recipe ensures your flavors remain authentic and balanced.

Why Oregano Substitution Matters

Oregano's distinctive earthy, slightly bitter flavor with peppery notes makes it essential in many Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. Its unique chemical composition—particularly high levels of carvacrol—creates that signature herbal punch. When substituting, consider whether you're making pizza sauce, Greek salad, or chili, as different dishes require different flavor profiles.

Top Oregano Substitutes Ranked

Not all substitutes work equally well across all dishes. Here's how common alternatives compare for various cooking applications:

Substitute	Best For	Substitution Ratio	Flavor Notes
Marjoram	General replacement, roasted meats	1:1	Sweeter, milder version of oregano
Italian Seasoning	Pasta sauces, pizza	1.5x amount	Contains oregano plus complementary herbs
Thyme	Greek dishes, stews	1.5x amount	More earthy, less peppery
Basil	Tomato sauces, caprese dishes	1:1	Sweeter, less pungent
Rosemary	Meat dishes, roasted vegetables	0.5x amount	Stronger, pine-like flavor

Best Substitutes for Specific Dishes

Pizza and Pasta Sauces

For tomato-based Italian dishes, Italian seasoning blend provides the most authentic flavor profile since it typically contains oregano plus complementary herbs like basil and thyme. If using individual herbs, combine equal parts basil and thyme (1:1 ratio) to mimic oregano's complexity. Dried mint (use half the amount) adds an authentic Greek pizza touch when combined with thyme.

Greek and Mediterranean Dishes

Traditional Greek recipes like souvlaki or spanakopita benefit most from thyme as an oregano substitute. Use 1.5 times the amount of thyme since it's less pungent. For tzatziki or Greek salads, add a pinch of dried mint alongside the thyme to capture that authentic Mediterranean essence. Marjoram works beautifully in lemon-herb chicken recipes where oregano would normally feature.

Meat Dishes and Chili

When making chili or seasoning meats, savory (summer savory) makes an excellent oregano replacement with its peppery notes. Use equal amounts. For grilled meats, combine equal parts thyme and rosemary (use half the total amount compared to oregano) to create a robust flavor profile. In Mexican chorizo or taco seasoning, cumin plus a touch of dried mint creates a surprisingly authentic substitute.

Substitution Ratios and Practical Tips

Getting the measurements right prevents your dish from becoming overpowering or bland. Remember these key principles when substituting oregano:

• Fresh vs. dried matters: If using fresh herbs instead of dried oregano, triple the amount (1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh)
• Start small: Add half the recommended substitute amount first, then adjust to taste
• Consider cooking time: Delicate herbs like basil should be added near the end of cooking
• Balance with acid: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can help mimic oregano's bright notes

What NOT to Use as Oregano Substitute

Some common herb substitutions create disappointing results. Avoid using dill in place of oregano—it creates an incompatible flavor profile for Mediterranean dishes. Similarly, cilantro works poorly as an oregano substitute despite both being used in Mexican cuisine; their flavor profiles differ significantly. Parsley lacks the necessary intensity and won't provide the characteristic herbal punch.

Creating Your Own Oregano Substitute Blend

For the most reliable results, make your own oregano replacement blend:

1. Mix 2 parts dried marjoram
2. Add 1 part dried thyme
3. Include 0.5 parts dried basil
4. For Greek dishes, add a pinch of dried mint
5. For Mexican dishes, add a pinch of cumin

Store this blend in an airtight container away from light. Properly stored, it maintains freshness for 3-4 months. This homemade substitute works at a 1:1 ratio in most recipes calling for dried oregano.

When Substitution Isn't Enough

For dishes where oregano is the star ingredient—like classic Greek salad dressing or authentic Neapolitan pizza—substitutes may fall short. In these cases, consider these alternatives:

• Make a quick trip to the store for fresh oregano (often available in small pots)
• Check if a neighbor has some you could borrow
• Grow your own oregano plant (it's remarkably easy and drought-tolerant)

Can I use Italian seasoning instead of oregano?

Yes, Italian seasoning makes an excellent oregano substitute as it typically contains oregano plus complementary herbs. Use 1.5 times the amount of Italian seasoning compared to what the recipe calls for in oregano. This blend works particularly well in tomato-based sauces and pizza recipes.

What's the difference between oregano and marjoram?

Marjoram is in the same herb family as oregano but has a sweeter, milder flavor profile. It's often called 'sweet marjoram' and makes the closest 1:1 substitute for oregano. Oregano has stronger, more peppery notes while marjoram is more delicate, making it better for dishes where you don't want the herb to overpower other flavors.

Can I substitute fresh basil for dried oregano?

Yes, but with adjustments. Use three times the amount of fresh basil compared to dried oregano (1 tsp dried oregano = 1 tbsp fresh basil). Basil works best in tomato-based dishes but lacks oregano's peppery notes, so consider adding a pinch of black pepper to compensate. Add fresh basil near the end of cooking to preserve its flavor.

Which oregano substitute works best for Greek dishes?

Thyme is the best oregano substitute for authentic Greek cuisine. Use 1.5 times the amount of thyme compared to oregano. For traditional Greek salads or tzatziki, combine thyme with a small amount of dried mint (about 1/4 tsp mint per teaspoon of thyme) to capture the characteristic Mediterranean flavor profile.

How do I substitute oregano in chili recipes?

For chili, savory (summer savory) makes the best oregano substitute with its peppery notes. Use equal amounts. Alternatively, create a blend of equal parts thyme and rosemary (using half the total amount compared to oregano), plus a pinch of cumin for authentic Mexican flavor. Add these dried herbs early in the cooking process to allow flavors to meld properly.