Parsnip substitutes
Parsnip substitutes — 7 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Carrots
Same amount as the parsnip
The best substitutes for parsnips are carrots (1:1 ratio), turnips (1:1 ratio), potatoes (1:1 ratio), or rutabaga (1:1 ratio). Choose based on your recipe and desired sweetness level.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- soups
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of parsnip | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carrotssoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Turnipssoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Potatoessoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Rutabagasoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Sweet potatoesroasted vegetables | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Celeriac (celery root)soups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 7 | Parsley rootsoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
Carrots
similar taste and texture
Sweet, earthy root vegetable with similar texture and cooking properties to parsnips.
- Best for
- soups, stews, roasted vegetables, purees, stir-fries
Sweeter than parsnips, adds natural sweetness to dishes, cooks in similar time.
Turnips
different taste, similar texture
Mild, slightly bitter root vegetable that provides similar texture and bulk to parsnips.
- Best for
- soups, stews, roasted vegetables, mashed dishes, braised dishes
Less sweet than parsnips, more earthy flavor, similar cooking time.
Potatoes
different taste, similar texture
Starchy root vegetable that provides similar bulk and texture, though with different flavor profile.
- Best for
- soups, stews, roasted vegetables, mashed dishes, casseroles
More starchy, less sweet, provides good bulk and texture.
Rutabaga
similar taste and texture
Sweet, earthy root vegetable with similar texture and cooking properties to parsnips.
- Best for
- soups, stews, roasted vegetables, mashed dishes, braised dishes
Slightly sweeter than parsnips, similar earthy flavor, excellent texture.
Sweet potatoes
different taste, similar texture
Sweet, starchy root vegetable that provides similar bulk and sweetness to parsnips.
- Best for
- roasted vegetables, soups, purees, mashed dishes, casseroles
Much sweeter than parsnips, adds natural sweetness, similar cooking time.
Celeriac (celery root)
different taste, similar texture
Earthy, nutty root vegetable with similar texture and cooking properties to parsnips.
- Best for
- soups, stews, purees, roasted vegetables, mashed dishes
More earthy flavor, similar texture, excellent for purees and soups.
Parsley root
similar taste and texture
Mild, slightly sweet root vegetable that closely resembles parsnips in flavor and texture.
- Best for
- soups, stews, roasted vegetables, purees, stir-fries
Very similar to parsnips, slightly milder flavor, excellent substitute.
Questions
8 questionsWhat's the best substitute for parsnips in soup?
Carrots are the best substitute for parsnips in soup as they provide similar sweetness and texture. Turnips also work well and add a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I use potatoes instead of parsnips?
Yes, potatoes can substitute for parsnips in most recipes. They provide similar bulk and texture, though they're less sweet and more starchy than parsnips.
Are parsnips a good substitute for potatoes?
Parsnips can substitute for potatoes in many dishes, especially roasted vegetables and purees. They're sweeter and less starchy than potatoes, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Can I substitute turnips for parsnips?
Yes, turnips can substitute for parsnips in most recipes. They have similar texture and cooking properties, though they're less sweet and more earthy in flavor.
What's the difference between parsnips and carrots?
Parsnips are sweeter and more earthy than carrots, with a nuttier flavor. Carrots are more commonly available and have a brighter, more familiar taste.
Can I use rutabaga instead of parsnips?
Yes, rutabaga is an excellent substitute for parsnips. It has similar sweetness and earthy flavor, making it a great alternative in soups, stews, and roasted dishes.
How do I cook parsnips to bring out their sweetness?
Roast parsnips at high heat (400°F) until they caramelize slightly. This brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious golden exterior.
Can I substitute parsnips for carrots in a recipe?
Yes, parsnips can substitute for carrots in most recipes. They're sweeter and more earthy, so you may want to reduce other sweet ingredients in the dish.
Tips for substituting parsnip
8 tips- Parsnips should be peeled before cooking as the skin can be tough and bitter
- Cut parsnips into similar-sized pieces for even cooking
- Parsnips benefit from roasting to bring out their natural sweetness
- Add parsnips to soups and stews in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking
- Parsnips can be mashed like potatoes for a sweet, creamy side dish
- Roast parsnips at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden and tender
- Parsnips pair well with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage
- For maximum sweetness, roast parsnips until they caramelize slightly