Bay leaves substitutes
Bay leaves substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Thyme
Same amount as the bay leaves
Similar herb with different flavor.
The best substitutes for bay leaves are thyme, oregano, or basil, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- You'll taste it
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bay leaves | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thymecooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 2 | Oreganocooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 3 | Basilcooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Rosemarycooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | Sagecooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Marjoramcooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Thyme
different taste and texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Oregano
different taste and texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Basil
different taste and texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Rosemary
different taste and texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Sage
different taste and texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Marjoram
different taste and texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, sauces
Different flavor, similar pungency.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use thyme instead of bay leaves?
Yes, thyme is a good substitute for bay leaves. It has a different flavor but similar pungency and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between bay leaves and thyme?
Bay leaves have earthy, herbal flavor, while thyme has a more pungent, minty flavor. Both are herbs but have different flavor profiles.
Can I use oregano instead of bay leaves?
Yes, oregano can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar pungency and can be used in most recipes.
Why are bay leaves so popular in soups and stews?
Bay leaves are popular because they add earthy, herbal flavor and are good for long-cooking dishes like soups and stews.
Tips for substituting bay leaves
6 tips- Bay leaves add earthy, herbal flavor to dishes
- Bay leaves can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Bay leaves pairs well with meats, vegetables, and rice
- Bay leaves works well in soups, stews, and sauces
- Bay leaves can be used to make bouquet garni and marinades
- Store bay leaves in a cool, dry place