Thyme Substitutes – 5 Best Herb Cooking Alternatives
The best substitute for thyme is Oregano at a 1 tsp thyme = 1 tsp oregano ratio. It works best for tomato sauces, roasted meats, pizza. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Oregano
1 tsp thyme = 1 tsp oregano
Similar earthy, slightly peppery flavor. Works as a 1:1 swap in most Mediterranean and Italian dishes.
What are the other substitutes for thyme?
Rosemary
1 tsp thyme = 1/2 tsp rosemary
More piney and assertive than thyme. Use half the amount and mince finely since rosemary leaves are tougher.
Marjoram
1 tsp thyme = 1 tsp marjoram
Closely related to oregano but sweeter and more delicate. Excellent thyme substitute, especially in lighter dishes.
Savory
1 tsp thyme = 1 tsp savory
Both summer and winter savory share thyme's peppery, herbal qualities. A nearly identical substitute in French cooking.
Italian Seasoning
1 tsp thyme = 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Contains thyme along with oregano, basil, and rosemary. Works when thyme is one of several herbs in a recipe.
What should you know before substituting thyme?
Fresh thyme is about 3 times more potent by volume than dried. To convert: 1 tbsp fresh thyme = 1 tsp dried thyme. Strip leaves from woody stems by pinching the top and sliding fingers downward.
How do you substitute thyme in a recipe?
A fragrant herb with earthy, slightly minty notes, used extensively in French, Mediterranean, and Creole cooking for soups, roasts, and sauces.
The best substitute for thyme depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Oregano (1 tsp thyme = 1 tsp oregano), which works well for tomato sauces, roasted meats, pizza.
If you need a different option, Rosemary (1 tsp thyme = 1/2 tsp rosemary) is another reliable choice. More piney and assertive than thyme. Use half the amount and mince finely since rosemary leaves are tougher.
When substituting thyme, 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 herb is most similar to thyme?
Marjoram and savory are the most similar herbs to thyme, sharing its earthy, slightly peppery flavor. Both can be used as 1:1 substitutes in any recipe.
How much dried thyme equals fresh thyme?
Use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for every 1 tablespoon (3 teaspoons) of fresh thyme. Dried herbs are more concentrated since the water has been removed.
Can I use rosemary instead of thyme?
Yes, but use half the amount since rosemary is more assertive. Mince it finely because rosemary leaves are tougher than delicate thyme leaves.