Substitute for Steak: 1 Smart Options
The best substitute for steak is Chicken at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Chicken
Same amount (1:1)
Chicken works as a substitute for steak 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 steak?
Portobello Mushroom
1 large portobello cap per 1 steak
The classic vegetarian steak substitute. Meaty texture and umami flavor. Grill, broil, or pan-sear like a steak.
Flavor/texture:Earthy, savory umami. Meaty texture but distinctly mushroom-flavored. Absorbs marinades well.
Avoid when:Very different nutritionally (much less protein). Does not have the same chew or flavor as beef. Remove gills for a cleaner taste.
Pork Chops (bone-in)
1 pork chop per 1 steak
Similar cooking methods (grill, pan-sear, broil). Leaner than beef steak with a milder flavor.
Flavor/texture:Milder, leaner, and less beefy. Sweet pork flavor. Takes well to brines and marinades.
Avoid when:Cook to 145°F (lower than well-done beef). Less marbling means it dries out faster. Different flavor profile.
What should you know before substituting steak?
Chicken is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to steak in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Cooking time and fat level can shift the final dish, so adjust seasoning after the substitute is fully cooked.
How do you substitute steak in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for steak and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Chicken is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role steak plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for steak depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Chicken (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Portobello Mushroom (1 large portobello cap per 1 steak) is another reliable choice. The classic vegetarian steak substitute. Meaty texture and umami flavor. Grill, broil, or pan-sear like a steak.
When substituting steak, 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 Steak?
Chicken is the best place to start for steak. 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 Steak?
This page lists 1 substitute for steak. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.