Out of Taco seasoning, one case
Oregano substitute for taco seasoning
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Mexican oregano
Same amount as the taco seasoning
The best oregano substitute for taco seasoning is Mexican oregano (1:1 ratio), followed by marjoram, Italian seasoning, or a blend of thyme and basil. Mexican oregano has a more citrusy, earthy flavor that's good for Mexican cuisine.
- Best for —
- taco seasoning
One casethe full taco seasoning card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of taco seasoning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexican oreganotaco seasoning | Same amount |
| 2 | Marjorammild taco seasoning | Same amount |
| 3 | Italian seasoningwhen you don't have Mexican oregano | Same amount |
| 4 | Thyme and basil blendwhen you're out of oregano | Same amountEqual parts thyme and basil |
| 5 | Dried basilwhen you have limited herbs | Same amount |
| 6 | Omit oreganowhen you can't find any substitute | 0 × the amount |
Mexican oregano
Citrusy and earthy, good for Mexican cuisine · similar texture
The most authentic substitute with a citrusy, earthy flavor good for Mexican cuisine
- Best for
- taco seasoning, chili powder blends, Mexican rice, salsa and guacamole, fajitas and burritos
Mexican oregano has a more citrusy, less bitter flavor than Mediterranean oregano. It's the traditional choice for Mexican dishes.
Marjoram
Sweeter and milder than oregano · similar texture
A close relative of oregano with a sweeter, milder flavor that works well in taco seasoning
- Best for
- mild taco seasoning, when you want less bitter flavor, family-friendly taco blends, fish tacos
Marjoram is sweeter and less bitter than oregano, making it great for milder taco seasoning. Use the same amount.
Italian seasoning
Similar oregano flavor with additional herbs · similar texture
Herb blend containing oregano plus other Mediterranean herbs
- Best for
- when you don't have Mexican oregano, fusion taco recipes, Mediterranean-Mexican fusion, general taco seasoning
Will add additional herbs (basil, thyme) to your taco seasoning. Works well but changes the traditional Mexican flavor profile.
Thyme and basil blend
Herbaceous with different flavor notes · similar texture
Homemade blend that provides herbaceous flavor similar to oregano
- Best for
- when you're out of oregano, custom taco seasoning blends, experimenting with flavors
Mix equal parts dried thyme and basil. This creates a different but complementary flavor profile for tacos.
Dried basil
Sweet and herbaceous · similar texture
Simple substitute that provides herbaceous flavor to taco seasoning
- Best for
- when you have limited herbs, quick substitution, mild taco seasoning
Basil provides herbaceous flavor but is sweeter than oregano. It works well in taco seasoning for a different but pleasant flavor.
Omit oregano
Different but still good taco flavor
Simply leave out oregano and increase other spices in your taco seasoning
- Best for
- when you can't find any substitute, simplified taco seasoning, when other spices are the main flavor
- Texture
- Same
Increase cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder by 25% each to compensate for the missing oregano flavor.
How it behaves in this recipe
Oregano is a crucial ingredient in taco seasoning that provides herbaceous flavor and complexity. When substituting, it's important to find something that provides similar herbaceous characteristics, as this is what gives taco seasoning its distinctive flavor profile.
Tips for substituting taco seasoning
8 tips- Mexican oregano is the most authentic choice for taco seasoning - it has a more citrusy flavor than Mediterranean oregano
- If using Mediterranean oregano in taco seasoning, add a pinch of lime zest to mimic the citrusy notes of Mexican oregano
- Crush dried herbs between your fingers before adding to taco seasoning to release more flavor
- Let your taco seasoning sit for at least 30 minutes after mixing to allow flavors to meld
- Store homemade taco seasoning in an airtight container for up to 6 months
- When making taco seasoning, taste as you go and adjust the oregano substitute based on your preference
- Cumin substitute works best when combined with other traditional taco seasoning spices
- Consider toasting ground spices lightly in a dry pan to enhance their flavor before mixing
Notes on taco seasoning
- If you can't find Mexican oregano, try using a small amount of dried cilantro along with Mediterranean oregano
- For a completely different approach, try using epazote (a traditional Mexican herb) as a substitute
- Consider using a pinch of dried mint along with other herbs for a unique flavor
- If making a large batch of taco seasoning, you can order Mexican oregano online for future use
Questions
5 questionsWhat can I substitute for oregano in taco seasoning?
The best substitute is Mexican oregano (1:1 ratio), followed by marjoram, Italian seasoning, or a blend of thyme and basil. Mexican oregano has the most authentic flavor for Mexican cuisine.
Can I use Italian seasoning instead of oregano in taco seasoning?
Yes, Italian seasoning can work as a substitute (1:1 ratio), but it will add basil and thyme flavors that aren't traditional in Mexican taco seasoning. Mexican oregano is the better choice.
What's the difference between Mexican oregano and regular oregano?
Mexican oregano has a more citrusy, earthy flavor and is less bitter than Mediterranean oregano. It's specifically suited for Mexican cuisine and provides the authentic flavor for taco seasoning.
Can I omit oregano from taco seasoning entirely?
Yes, you can omit oregano and increase other spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder by about 25% each. The seasoning will still taste good, just different.
How much oregano substitute should I use in taco seasoning?
Use the same amount as the original oregano called for in the recipe (typically 1-2 teaspoons per batch of taco seasoning). Start with the same amount and adjust to taste.