Substitute for Oil: 11 Smart Options
The best substitute for oil is Melted Butter at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 10 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Melted Butter
Same amount (1:1)
Melted Butter works as a substitute for oil in many recipes. 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 oil?
Bacon Fat
Same amount (1:1)
Bacon Fat works as a substitute for oil in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth.
Bacon Grease
Same amount (1:1)
Bacon Grease works as a substitute for oil in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth.
Cooking Spray
Use 3%
Cooking Spray is a workable stand-in for oil. Use 3% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking and salads.
Ghee
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Ghee in place of oil 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.
Homemade Applesauce
Use 50%
Homemade Applesauce is a workable stand-in for oil. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Margarine
Use 75%
Margarine works as a substitute for oil in many recipes. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking.
Oil-based Spray
Use 6%
Oil-based Spray works as a substitute for oil in many recipes. Use 6% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking.
Softened Butter
Use 75%
Softened Butter is a workable stand-in for oil. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking.
Unsalted Butter
Use 75%
Unsalted Butter works as a substitute for oil in many recipes. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking.
Unsweetened Applesauce
Use 50%
Unsweetened Applesauce is a workable stand-in for oil. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
What should you know before substituting oil?
Melted Butter is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to oil in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Different fats bring different smoke points and flavors, so match the substitute to the cooking method. If you need a plant-based option, Cooking Spray is a solid alternative.
How do you substitute oil in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for oil and you need an alternative, there are 11 tested substitutes available. Melted Butter is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role oil plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for oil depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Melted Butter (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Bacon Fat (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Bacon Fat works as a substitute for oil in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It still gives the dish useful savory depth.
When substituting oil, 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 American Heart Association. See our testing methodology for details.
What can you use instead of oil in specific recipes?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Oil?
Melted Butter is the best place to start for oil. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
Can I use Melted Butter instead of Oil in baking?
A reliable starting point is Melted Butter. Use a 1:1 swap, then adjust the recipe once you see how the substitute behaves in the pan, bowl, or oven.
How many substitutes are there for Oil?
This page lists 11 substitutes for oil. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.