Rosemary is a fragrant herb known for its strong pine-like aroma and earthy, woodsy flavor. It’s a key player in many Mediterranean and roasted dishes—but if you’re out, allergic, or just don’t enjoy its intensity, there are plenty of flavorful alternatives.
Whether you need a rosemary substitute for fresh or dried use, or you’re cooking meat, vegetables, or sauces, there are several herbs that can step in with similar depth and character.
Let’s explore the top rosemary replacements, when to use them, and how to keep your recipe tasting great.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: Top Rosemary Substitutes
The best rosemary substitutes include:
- Thyme – Earthy and subtle; great all-around swap
- Sage – Bold and aromatic; perfect for meats and roasts
- Oregano – Herbaceous and slightly peppery
- Marjoram – Milder and sweeter version of oregano
- Tarragon – Sweet, slightly anise-flavored; works in sauces
- Italian seasoning – For general-purpose herb blends
These herbs share rosemary’s savory essence, though each offers a slightly different flavor profile.
Fresh Rosemary Substitutes
If a recipe calls for fresh rosemary sprigs, use one of these fresh herbs:
1. Fresh Thyme
Best for: Roasts, stews, soups, bread
- Flavor profile: Earthy, minty, subtle
- Substitute ratio: 1 tsp fresh rosemary = 1 tsp fresh thyme
Thyme is the closest in both texture and flavor, making it the top choice. You can use it whole or stripped from the stem.
2. Fresh Sage
Best for: Poultry, stuffing, butter sauces
- Flavor profile: Bold, piney, slightly peppery
- Substitute ratio: 1 tsp rosemary = ½ tsp chopped sage (it’s stronger)
Sage is a robust herb like rosemary, but slightly more bitter. Use a light hand, especially in delicate dishes.
3. Fresh Oregano
Best for: Mediterranean and tomato-based dishes
- Flavor profile: Slightly bitter, earthy, peppery
- Substitute ratio: 1 tsp rosemary = 1 tsp oregano
Oregano is a great match when cooking Italian or Greek dishes like roasted vegetables or meat rubs.
Dried Rosemary Substitutes
If you’re out of dried rosemary, try these pantry staples:
1. Dried Thyme
- Substitute ratio: 1 tsp dried rosemary = 1 tsp dried thyme
- Works in most savory dishes, especially soups, stews, and rubs
Thyme has a slightly softer flavor and doesn’t overpower, making it a go-to replacement.
2. Dried Sage
- Substitute ratio: 1 tsp rosemary = ½ tsp dried sage
- Great for meats, gravies, and fall dishes
Use dried sage in small amounts—it’s stronger and more pungent than rosemary.
3. Dried Marjoram
- Substitute ratio: 1 tsp rosemary = 1.5 tsp dried marjoram
- Ideal in sauces, casseroles, and vegetable dishes
Marjoram is gentle and sweet, so it works best in recipes where rosemary is used sparingly.
Rosemary Substitute by Dish Type
| Dish Type | Best Substitutes | Why It Works |
| Roasted chicken | Thyme, sage | Bold herbs enhance poultry flavor |
| Baked potatoes | Oregano, thyme | Adds earthy notes without bitterness |
| Lamb or beef roasts | Sage, thyme | Matches rosemary’s intensity and aroma |
| Tomato sauces | Oregano, marjoram | Complements acidity and sweetness |
| Soups and stews | Thyme, marjoram | Balances savory flavor and aroma |
| Bread or focaccia | Thyme, Italian seasoning | Similar texture and herbal fragrance |
Using Italian Seasoning as a Rosemary Replacement
Italian seasoning typically includes rosemary, thyme, oregano, and basil, making it a good all-in-one option when you’re out of individual herbs.
- Substitute ratio: 1 tsp rosemary = 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Best in pasta dishes, marinades, or roasted veggies
Keep in mind it adds a blend of flavors, so it’s ideal in dishes where a mixed herb profile fits.
Tips for Substituting Rosemary
- Dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh. A good rule of thumb is:
- 1 tsp dried = 3 tsp fresh
- Add dried herbs early in cooking to allow flavor to develop
- Add fresh herbs near the end for best aroma and color
- Chop replacements finely to mimic rosemary’s needle-like leaves
FAQs About Rosemary Substitutes
1. Can I use thyme instead of rosemary?
Yes, thyme is the best substitute. Use equal amounts for fresh, or the same dried-for-dried ratio.
2. What’s the best substitute for rosemary in lamb recipes?
Sage or thyme work beautifully. They balance lamb’s strong flavor.
3. Can I use basil as a rosemary replacement?
Basil is more sweet and peppery, not piney. It can work in tomato dishes but not in roasts.
4. What if I don’t have any herbs?
Use garlic, lemon zest, or mustard to add brightness and depth without herbs.
5. Is tarragon a good rosemary substitute?
Tarragon has a licorice-like flavor and works in sauces or light dishes, but not ideal for roasts.
Even if you’re out of rosemary, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor. With versatile herbs like thyme, sage, and oregano, you can easily create the same aromatic, savory base that rosemary is known for.
Just match the substitute to your recipe type and adjust quantities for a perfectly seasoned dish—no rosemary required.
