Pearl onions substitutes
Pearl onions substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Shallots
Same amount as the pearl onions
Similar small onions with mild, sweet flavor.
The best substitutes for pearl onions are shallots, cipollini onions, or a mixture of small onions and shallots, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of pearl onions | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shallotscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Cipollini onionscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Small onions + shallotscooking | ½ cup small onions + ½ cup shallots per 1 cup pearl onionsWorks | Works |
| 4 | Red onionscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | White onionscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Yellow onionscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
Shallots
similar taste and texture
Similar small onions with mild, sweet flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, roasting, braising, garnishes
Similar flavor and texture.
Cipollini onions
similar taste and texture
Similar small onions with sweet flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, roasting, braising, garnishes
Similar flavor and texture.
Small onions + shallots
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics pearl onions' flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, roasting, braising, garnishes
Good substitute for pearl onions.
Red onions
similar taste and texture
Similar onions with mild, sweet flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, roasting, braising, garnishes
Different color, similar flavor.
White onions
similar taste and texture
Similar onions with mild, sweet flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, roasting, braising, garnishes
Similar flavor and texture.
Yellow onions
similar taste and texture
Similar onions with mild, sweet flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, roasting, braising, garnishes
Similar flavor and texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use shallots instead of pearl onions?
Yes, shallots are a good substitute for pearl onions. They have similar mild, sweet flavor and can be used in most recipes that call for pearl onions.
What's the difference between pearl onions and shallots?
Pearl onions are small, round onions with mild, sweet flavor, while shallots are similar small onions with a more delicate flavor. Both can be used similarly in cooking.
Can I use cipollini onions instead of pearl onions?
Yes, cipollini onions can work as a substitute, though they may have a slightly different flavor. They have similar size and texture.
Why are pearl onions so popular in holiday cooking?
Pearl onions are popular in holiday cooking because they add mild, sweet flavor to dishes and are a traditional ingredient in many holiday recipes like creamed onions and beef stew.
Tips for substituting pearl onions
6 tips- Pearl onions add mild, sweet flavor to dishes
- Pearl onions can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Pearl onions pair well with herbs, spices, and other vegetables
- Pearl onions work well in roasts and braises
- Pearl onions can be used to make pickles and preserves
- Store pearl onions in a cool, dry place