Oregano is one of those go-to herbs in many kitchens—known for its bold, earthy, and slightly peppery flavor. It’s especially popular in Mediterranean, Italian, and Mexican cooking. But if you’ve run out or simply want to try something different, don’t worry—there are several excellent oregano substitutes that will keep your dish just as flavorful.
Whether you’re making pasta sauce, tacos, pizza, or grilled vegetables, there’s an herb (or two) that can step in for oregano seamlessly.
Let’s explore the top oregano alternatives and how to use them based on your recipe and desired flavor profile.
Table of Contents
Best Substitutes for Dried Oregano
Dried oregano is often used in sauces, marinades, spice rubs, and roasts. These herbs make the best replacements:
Marjoram (Dried)
Best for: Italian dishes, sauces, stews
- Flavor profile: Milder and sweeter than oregano
- Swap ratio: Use 1:1 (equal amount)
Marjoram is a close cousin of oregano and works beautifully in tomato-based dishes or seasoning blends.
Thyme (Dried)
Best for: Roasts, vegetables, soups, rubs
- Flavor profile: Earthy and slightly minty
- Swap ratio: Use 1:1, or slightly less if your thyme is strong
Thyme is more subtle but pairs well with most ingredients where oregano is used. It’s great in both meat and veggie recipes.
Basil (Dried)
Best for: Pizza sauce, pasta, soups
- Flavor profile: Sweet, slightly peppery, aromatic
- Swap ratio: Use 1:1 for dried oregano
Basil works best in Mediterranean or Italian recipes. It won’t mimic oregano’s earthiness but will complement similar ingredients.
Italian Seasoning
Best for: Pizza, pasta sauce, garlic bread
- Flavor profile: A mix of oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, etc.
- Swap ratio: Use 1:1 or slightly less (taste as you go)
Italian seasoning is a simple shortcut when you don’t have pure oregano on hand.
Best Substitutes for Fresh Oregano
Fresh oregano is used in salads, marinades, grilled dishes, and as a finishing herb.
Fresh Marjoram
Best for: Fresh tomato dishes, marinades
- Flavor profile: Mild, floral, a little sweet
- Swap ratio: Use slightly more than oregano (1.5x)
Marjoram is less bitter and more delicate—perfect for lighter dishes where fresh herbs shine.
Fresh Basil
Best for: Salads, caprese, roasted vegetables
- Flavor profile: Sweet, herbal, a little peppery
- Swap ratio: Use 1:1
Basil is a good visual and flavor substitute. Great for Mediterranean salads or grilled veggies.
Fresh Thyme
Best for: Meats, soups, grilled dishes
- Flavor profile: Earthy, slightly citrusy
- Swap ratio: Use slightly less (about ¾ the amount of oregano)
Fresh thyme adds complexity and warmth, especially in savory cooked dishes.
Oregano Substitute by Recipe Type
| Recipe | Best Substitute | Why It Works |
| Pasta sauce | Marjoram or basil | Sweet and aromatic balance |
| Pizza | Italian seasoning or basil | Familiar herb blend with classic flavor |
| Taco seasoning | Thyme + cumin | Adds earthy depth |
| Grilled chicken | Thyme or sage | Bold enough to flavor meats |
| Salad dressing | Fresh marjoram or basil | Mild and fresh without overpowering |
| Roasted vegetables | Thyme or rosemary | Brings out earthiness when roasted |
Can I Use Oregano Oil or Extract Instead?
Yes—but be careful.
- Oregano oil is highly concentrated and not always food-grade. Use only a drop or two and check that it’s safe for cooking.
- Oregano extract can be used in very small quantities (1–2 drops), but it won’t provide texture or subtlety like herbs do.
Stick with herbs unless you’re experienced with extracts and their strength.
What NOT to Use as an Oregano Substitute
While many herbs can stand in for oregano, avoid those that drastically shift your dish’s flavor:
- Dill – too grassy and tangy
- Tarragon – too licorice-flavored
- Mint – too sweet and cooling
- Cilantro – too citrusy and bold for Mediterranean-style dishes
FAQs About Oregano Substitutes
Is marjoram the same as oregano?
Not quite. They’re in the same family, but marjoram is sweeter and more delicate, while oregano is earthier and stronger.
Can I skip oregano in a recipe?
You can, especially if it’s not the dominant flavor. But a substitute like thyme or basil will keep the dish more balanced.
Is fresh oregano stronger than dried?
No. Dried oregano is more concentrated in flavor, so you usually need three times as much fresh to match the taste.
What’s a good oregano substitute for tacos?
Thyme or a mix of thyme and cumin works well in taco seasoning or Tex-Mex dishes.
Can I use parsley instead of oregano?
Only for garnish or color. Parsley lacks the strong flavor of oregano.
Whether you’re out of oregano or just want to mix things up, there’s no need to panic. From marjoram and thyme to basil and Italian seasoning, there are plenty of easy oregano substitutes that can keep your dish tasting great.
Just choose your substitute based on your recipe’s flavor profile, adjust the amount as needed, and enjoy cooking with confidence.
