Best Replacement for Italian Seasoning

Finding the perfect replacement for Italian seasoning can save your dish when you're out of this essential herb blend. Italian seasoning is a mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, commonly used in pasta sauces, pizza, and marinades. If you need an alternative, there are plenty of substitutes that can deliver similar flavors.

For more substitution guides, check out also Best Substitutes for Tarragon, 10 Best Saffron Substitutes, and 10 Substitutes for Celery.

Jump to:

• What Is Italian Seasoning?
• 1. Homemade Italian Seasoning Substitute
• 2. Herbes de Provence
• 3. Greek Seasoning
• 4. Basil and Oregano Combination
• 5. Mediterranean Seasoning Blend
• 6. Pizza Seasoning
• 7. Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried
• 8. Individual Dried Herbs
• How to Choose the Best Substitute
• Recipes using Italian Herbs

What Is Italian Seasoning?

Before looking at substitutes, let's break down what Italian seasoning typically includes. While recipes vary, most blends contain:

• Basil - Sweet and slightly peppery
• Oregano - Earthy and slightly bitter
• Thyme - Subtle, with a hint of mint
• Rosemary - Strong and piney
• Marjoram - Mild, with a delicate sweetness
• Sage (sometimes included) - Peppery and slightly citrusy

This combination adds depth and a well-balanced herbal taste to pasta sauces, pizza, roasted vegetables, and meats.

1. Homemade Italian Seasoning Substitute

The best substitute for store-bought Italian seasoning is a homemade mix. You can make your own by blending equal parts of the following dried herbs:

• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon marjoram (optional)

Mix them well and store in an airtight container. This blend will work in any recipe that calls for Italian seasoning.

2. Herbes de Provence

Herbes de Provence is a French herb mix that closely resembles Italian seasoning. It typically includes:

• Thyme
• Oregano
• Basil
• Rosemary
• Savory
• Sometimes lavender (omit if not desired)

It's an excellent replacement for Italian seasoning, particularly in roasted meats, vegetables, and stews.

3. Greek Seasoning

Greek seasoning shares several ingredients with Italian seasoning but also includes elements like garlic powder, onion powder, and sometimes cinnamon or nutmeg. It works well in Mediterranean dishes, grilled meats, and marinades.

To use Greek seasoning as a substitute, start with a smaller amount and adjust based on taste.

4. Basil and Oregano Combination

If you don't have all the ingredients for Italian seasoning, a simple mix of basil and oregano can do the trick. These two herbs are the backbone of Italian flavors and work well in:

• Pasta sauces
• Pizza toppings
• Soups and stews
• Roasted meats

Use ½ teaspoon of basil + ½ teaspoon of oregano for every teaspoon of Italian seasoning needed.

5. Mediterranean Seasoning Blend

If you have a Mediterranean spice mix in your pantry, it can be a great substitute for Italian seasoning. These blends often contain oregano, basil, thyme, and garlic, making them a great match for Italian dishes.

Use an equal amount of Mediterranean seasoning in place of Italian seasoning.

6. Pizza Seasoning

Pizza seasoning often includes oregano, basil, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. Since these ingredients overlap with Italian seasoning, it can work well in pasta sauces, soups, and dressings.

Use the same amount of pizza seasoning as you would Italian seasoning in recipes.

7. Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried

If you have fresh herbs available, they can be an even more flavorful replacement. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried ones. For example:

• 1 teaspoon dried basil = 1 tablespoon fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano = 1 tablespoon fresh oregano

Fresh herbs are perfect for finishing dishes, salads, and homemade sauces.

8. Individual Dried Herbs

If you don't have a blend, you can mix individual dried herbs in a pinch. Some good options include:

• Oregano + thyme + basil (for pasta dishes)
• Rosemary + thyme (for roasted meats and potatoes)
• Marjoram + basil (for soups and stews)

Simply use equal parts of two or three herbs to create a custom mix that suits your dish.

How to Choose the Best Substitute

The best replacement for Italian seasoning depends on the dish you're making. Here are some quick guidelines:

• For pasta sauces and soups: Oregano + basil
• For roasted meats and potatoes: Rosemary + thyme
• For pizza and Italian-inspired dishes: Pizza seasoning or Mediterranean seasoning
• For a well-rounded alternative: Herbes de Provence or a homemade mix

Recipes using Italian Herbs