Out of Italian seasoning, one case
Homemade Italian seasoning substitute: DIY herb blend recipe
10 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Basic Italian seasoning mix
2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp rosemary, ½ tsp marjoram
Make homemade Italian seasoning by mixing 2 parts oregano, 1 part basil, 1 part thyme, ½ part rosemary, and ½ part marjoram. This creates the most accurate substitute for store-bought Italian seasoning and gives you full control over the flavor profile.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- all recipes
One casethe full Italian seasoning card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Italian seasoning | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Basic Italian seasoning mixall recipes | 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp rosemary, ½ tsp marjoramWorks | Works |
| 2 | Simple Italian seasoning mixpasta | 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thymeWorks | Works |
| 3 | Herb-forward Italian seasoningpasta | 3 tsp oregano, 2 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp rosemaryTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Mild Italian seasoninglight dishes | 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, ½ tsp thyme, ¼ tsp rosemaryTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Garlic Italian seasoningpasta | 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp garlic powderYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Spicy Italian seasoningpasta | 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp red pepper flakesYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 7 | Fresh herb Italian seasoningpasta | 2 tbsp fresh oregano, 1 tbsp fresh basil, 1 tbsp fresh thyme, ½ tbsp fresh rosemaryYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 8 | Mediterranean Italian seasoningpasta | 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp rosemary, ½ tsp sageTweak it | Tweak it |
| 9 | Lemon Italian seasoningpasta | 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp lemon zestYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 10 | Smoky Italian seasoningpasta | 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp smoked paprikaYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Basic Italian seasoning mix
similar taste and texture
Mix dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram in the classic proportions. This creates the most authentic Italian seasoning substitute that matches store-bought blends.
- Best for
- all recipes, cooking, baking, marinades
Classic Italian seasoning blend.
Simple Italian seasoning mix
similar taste and texture
Mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme for a simple Italian seasoning substitute. This captures the main flavors while being easier to make with fewer ingredients.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Three-herb blend, easier to make.
Herb-forward Italian seasoning
different taste, similar texture
Increase the herb proportions for a more intense Italian seasoning substitute. This works well when you want a stronger herb flavor in your dishes.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Extra herb flavor, more intense.
Mild Italian seasoning
different taste, similar texture
Reduce the herb proportions for a milder Italian seasoning substitute. This works well in delicate dishes where you want subtle herb flavor.
- Best for
- light dishes, sauces, marinades, garnishes
Milder flavor, less intense.
Garlic Italian seasoning
different taste and texture
Add garlic powder to your Italian seasoning mix for extra flavor. This works well in dishes where you want both herb and garlic flavors.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Added garlic flavor.
Spicy Italian seasoning
different taste and texture
Add red pepper flakes to your Italian seasoning mix for a spicy version. This works well in dishes where you want both herb and heat flavors.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Added heat, spicy flavor.
Fresh herb Italian seasoning
different taste and texture
Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more intense Italian seasoning substitute. This works well when you have fresh herbs available and want maximum flavor.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Fresh herbs, more intense flavor.
Mediterranean Italian seasoning
different taste, similar texture
Add sage to your Italian seasoning mix for a Mediterranean twist. This works well in dishes where you want a more complex herb profile.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Added sage, Mediterranean flavor.
Lemon Italian seasoning
different taste and texture
Add lemon zest to your Italian seasoning mix for a bright, citrusy flavor. This works well in dishes where you want both herb and citrus flavors.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Added lemon, bright flavor.
Smoky Italian seasoning
different taste and texture
Add smoked paprika to your Italian seasoning mix for a smoky flavor. This works well in dishes where you want both herb and smoke flavors.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sauces, marinades
Added smoke, smoky flavor.
How it behaves in this recipe
Homemade Italian seasoning gives you complete control over the flavor profile and allows you to customize the blend to your taste preferences. The key is using the right proportions of herbs to create a balanced flavor that matches or improves upon store-bought Italian seasoning.
Tips for substituting Italian seasoning
10 tips- For pasta: Use the basic mix or simple mix for authentic flavor
- In pizza: Use the basic mix or herb-forward mix for strong flavor
- For marinades: Use the basic mix or garlic mix for depth
- In sauces: Use the basic mix or simple mix for balance
- For roasting: Use the herb-forward mix or Mediterranean mix
- In soups: Use the basic mix or mild mix for subtle flavor
- For grilling: Use the spicy mix or smoky mix for bold flavor
- In bread: Use the basic mix or mild mix for gentle flavor
- For vegetables: Use the mild mix or lemon mix for brightness
- In dressings: Use the basic mix or garlic mix for flavor
Notes on Italian seasoning
- Mix different herbs to create custom Italian seasoning blends
- Use different herb proportions based on your taste preferences
- Try different herb combinations for unique flavors
- Make your own Italian seasoning mix with fresh herbs
- Experiment with different herb blends for different dishes
Questions
10 questionsHow do I make homemade Italian seasoning?
Mix 2 parts oregano, 1 part basil, 1 part thyme, ½ part rosemary, and ½ part marjoram. For example, use 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp rosemary, and ½ tsp marjoram.
What's the best homemade Italian seasoning recipe?
The best homemade Italian seasoning recipe uses 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp rosemary, and ½ tsp marjoram. This creates the most authentic flavor profile.
Can I make Italian seasoning without marjoram?
Yes, you can make Italian seasoning without marjoram. Use 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, and ½ tsp rosemary. The flavor will be slightly different but still good.
What's the best homemade Italian seasoning for pasta?
For pasta, use the basic mix (2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, ½ tsp rosemary, ½ tsp marjoram) or the simple mix (2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme).
Can I use fresh herbs for homemade Italian seasoning?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs for homemade Italian seasoning. Use 2 tbsp fresh oregano, 1 tbsp fresh basil, 1 tbsp fresh thyme, and ½ tbsp fresh rosemary. The flavor will be more intense.
What's the best homemade Italian seasoning for pizza?
For pizza, use the basic mix or the herb-forward mix for strong flavor. You can also add garlic powder or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Can I make Italian seasoning without rosemary?
Yes, you can make Italian seasoning without rosemary. Use 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp thyme, and ½ tsp marjoram. The flavor will be slightly different but still good.
What's the best homemade Italian seasoning for marinades?
For marinades, use the basic mix or add garlic powder for extra flavor. You can also add red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for smoke.
Can I make Italian seasoning with different herbs?
Yes, you can customize your Italian seasoning with different herbs. Try adding sage, fennel seeds, or bay leaves for different flavor profiles.
What's the best homemade Italian seasoning for sauces?
For sauces, use the basic mix or the simple mix for balance. You can also add garlic powder for extra flavor or lemon zest for brightness.