Best Oregano Substitutes for Cooking
The best substitute for oregano is Italian Seasoning at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 7 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Italian Seasoning
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Italian Seasoning in place of oregano 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 oregano?
Basil
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Basil in place of oregano when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in baking and sauces. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Cilantro
Use 300%
You can use Cilantro in place of oregano when needed. Use 300% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Dried Basil
Same amount (1:1)
Dried Basil works as a substitute for oregano in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Dried oregano
Use 33%
Dried oregano works as a substitute for oregano in many recipes. Use 33% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than oregano, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Fresh Basil
Use 300%
Fresh Basil works as a substitute for oregano in many recipes. Use 300% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than oregano, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Tarragon
Use 75%
Tarragon is a workable stand-in for oregano. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Thyme
Use 75%
You can use Thyme in place of oregano when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting oregano?
Marjoram is usually the closest flavor match, just a little softer and sweeter. Italian seasoning can also work well, but it changes the flavor blend because it brings several herbs instead of one.
How do you substitute oregano in a recipe?
Oregano substitutes work best when they bring the same herbal backbone without overpowering the dish. These swaps are most useful in pasta sauce, pizza, vinaigrettes, marinades, and roasted vegetables.
The best substitute for oregano depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Italian Seasoning (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Basil (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. You can use Basil in place of oregano when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in baking and sauces. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting oregano, 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. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for oregano?
Marjoram is usually the closest oregano substitute because it stays in the same herbal family without changing the dish too much.
Can I use Italian seasoning instead of oregano?
Yes. It works well when oregano is just one part of the flavor profile, but it adds other herbs too, so the final dish will taste more blended and less oregano-forward.