Matzo meal substitutes
Matzo meal substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Breadcrumbs
Same amount as the matzo meal
Ground bread with similar texture and binding properties.
The best substitutes for matzo meal are breadcrumbs, cracker crumbs, almond flour, or ground nuts depending on the dish.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- meatballs
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of matzo meal | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Breadcrumbsmeatballs | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Cracker crumbsmeatballs | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Almond flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Ground nutsbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Rice flourbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Potato starchthickening | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Breadcrumbs
similar taste and texture
Cracker crumbs
similar taste and texture
Ground crackers with similar texture and binding properties.
- Best for
- meatballs, meatloaf, coating, stuffing
Similar texture and binding properties.
Almond flour
different taste, similar texture
Ground almonds with similar texture and binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, coating, thickening, stuffing
Similar texture but different flavor.
Ground nuts
different taste, similar texture
Ground nuts with similar texture and binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, coating, thickening, stuffing
Similar texture but different flavor.
Rice flour
different taste, similar texture
Ground rice with similar texture and binding properties.
- Best for
- baking, coating, thickening, stuffing
Similar texture but different flavor.
Potato starch
different taste and texture
Starch with similar binding properties.
- Best for
- thickening, binding, coating, baking
Similar binding properties but different texture.
Questions
4 questionsWhat is matzo meal?
Matzo meal is ground matzo crackers, commonly used in Jewish cooking, especially during Passover. It has a texture similar to breadcrumbs and is used for binding and coating.
Is matzo meal the same as breadcrumbs?
They have similar textures and uses, but matzo meal is made from matzo crackers (unleavened bread) and is commonly used during Passover when leavened bread is avoided.
Can I use matzo meal in regular cooking?
Yes, matzo meal can be used in regular cooking just like breadcrumbs. It's great for binding meatballs, coating foods, and adding texture to dishes.
What dishes commonly use matzo meal?
Matzo meal is commonly used in Jewish dishes like matzo ball soup, gefilte fish, and Passover desserts. It's also great for meatballs, meatloaf, and as a coating for fried foods.
Tips for substituting matzo meal
6 tips- Matzo meal has a texture similar to breadcrumbs
- Great for binding and coating in Jewish cooking
- Commonly used during Passover when bread is avoided
- Can be used in both savory and sweet dishes
- Great for meatballs, meatloaf, and coatings
- Store in airtight container in cool, dry place