Substitute for Au Jus: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for au jus is Beef Broth + Red Wine + Garlic + Thyme at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Beef Broth + Red Wine + Garlic + Thyme
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Beef Broth + Red Wine + Garlic + Thyme in place of au jus when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for au jus?
Au jus powder (dry mix)
Same amount (1:1)
Au jus powder (dry mix) is a workable stand-in for au jus. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than au jus, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Beef Broth + Pan Drippings + Cornstarch
Same amount (1:1)
Beef Broth + Pan Drippings + Cornstarch is a workable stand-in for au jus. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Beef Broth + Worcestershire + Garlic
Same amount (1:1)
Beef Broth + Worcestershire + Garlic is a workable stand-in for au jus. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces.
What should you know before substituting au jus?
Beef Broth + Red Wine + Garlic + Thyme is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to au jus in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Focus on whether you need the closest flavor, the right texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup. If you need a plant-based option, Au jus powder (dry mix) is a solid alternative.
How do you substitute au jus in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for au jus and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Beef Broth + Red Wine + Garlic + Thyme is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role au jus plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for au jus depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Beef Broth + Red Wine + Garlic + Thyme (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Au jus powder (dry mix) (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Au jus powder (dry mix) is a workable stand-in for au jus. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than au jus, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
When substituting au jus, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Au Jus?
Beef Broth + Red Wine + Garlic + Thyme is the best place to start for au jus. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Au Jus?
This page lists 4 substitutes for au jus. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.