Savory Herb Substitute

Thyme

Use the same amount as the savory herb you are replacing

Best for cooking

Close match

The best savory herb substitute is thyme (1:1 ratio) or oregano (1:1 ratio). For a more complex flavor, use a combination of marjoram and sage (1 tsp savory herb = 1/2 tsp marjoram + 1/2 tsp sage).

Compare all 6 savory substitutes

Discover the best savory herb substitutes for cooking and seasoning. Learn about thyme, oregano, and other herb alternatives with proper ratios and cooking tips.

Other savory herb substitutes

Ranked, with the exact amount to use

2Oregano
Close match
Use the same amount
Mediterranean herb with robust flavor that complements many dishes savory herb is used in
What changes
Best for
Italian dishes, Mediterranean cooking, pizza, pasta sauces
More pungent than savory herb but works well in hearty dishes
3Marjoram + Sage
Close match
Use ½ tsp marjoram + ½ tsp sage for every 1 tsp savory herb
Combination that mimics savory herb's complexity and earthy flavor profile
What changes
Best for
stuffing, sausages, bean dishes, roasted meats
Best for dishes where savory herb is a primary flavor
4Marjoram
Close match
Use the same amount
Sweet, mild herb that provides similar warmth and depth to savory herb
What changes
Best for
soups, stews, vegetable dishes, stuffing
Milder than savory herb but similar warmth
5Sage
Close match
Use the same amount
Earthy herb with slightly bitter notes that works well in savory applications
What changes
Best for
stuffing, poultry, pork, bean dishes
More bitter than savory herb but similar earthiness

How savory herb differs

When substituting for savory herb, it's important to consider that savory herb has a unique earthy, slightly peppery flavor that works particularly well in hearty dishes. Choose substitutes that can provide similar depth and warmth.

Cooking tips

Add savory herb substitutes towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors
For fresh herbs, use 3 times more than dried versions
Savory herb substitutes work best in dishes with longer cooking times where flavors can meld
When using oregano as a savory herb substitute, use slightly less as it's more pungent
Thyme works particularly well in poultry and vegetable dishes that traditionally use savory herb
For stuffing and dressing, a combination of marjoram and sage works excellently
In soups and stews, bay leaves can provide similar depth without the same flavor profile
When substituting dried herbs for fresh savory herb, use about 1/3 the amount

Notes on savory herb

If you don't have any herbs, try using a small amount of poultry seasoning (which often contains savory herb) mixed with thyme
For a completely different approach, use a small amount of fennel seeds or caraway seeds for earthy depth
In Mediterranean dishes, a combination of basil and oregano can sometimes work as a savory herb substitute

Frequently asked questions

What's the best substitute for savory herb?

Thyme is the best substitute for savory herb. It has a similar earthy, slightly minty flavor profile and works well in most dishes where savory herb is used.

Can I use oregano instead of savory herb?

Yes, oregano can work as a savory herb substitute, especially in Mediterranean dishes. However, it has a more pungent flavor, so use slightly less than the recipe calls for.

How do I substitute dried savory herb for fresh?

Use about 1/3 the amount of dried savory herb compared to fresh. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh savory herb, use 1 teaspoon dried savory herb.

What herbs work best together as a savory herb substitute?

A combination of marjoram and sage (1/2 tsp each for 1 tsp savory herb) works well, as does thyme with a pinch of marjoram for added complexity.

Can I use sage instead of savory herb?

Yes, sage can work as a savory herb substitute, especially in stuffing and bean dishes. However, it has a more bitter flavor, so it works best in hearty dishes.

Savory Herb Substitute

Other savory herb substitutes

2Oregano

3Marjoram + Sage

4Marjoram

5Sage