Out of Thyme, one case
Thyme substitute for steak
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Rosemary
Same amount as the thyme
The best substitutes for thyme in steak recipes are rosemary (1:1), oregano (1:1), sage (1:1), or a combination of rosemary and sage (½ tsp each per 1 tsp thyme).
- Verdict —
- You'll taste it
- Best for —
- grilled steak
One casethe full thyme card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of thyme | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rosemarygrilled steak | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 2 | Oreganogrilled steak | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Sagepan-seared steak | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Marjoramsteak marinades | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Herbes de Provencegrilled steak | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Garlic + black peppersteak rubs | ½ tsp garlic powder + ½ tsp black pepper per 1 tsp thymeYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Rosemary
different taste and texture
Rosemary's pine-like, aromatic flavor pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of beef
- Best for
- grilled steak, pan-seared steak, steak marinades, steak rubs
More intense, pine-like flavor, excellent with beef.
Oregano
similar taste and texture
Oregano provides similar earthy, aromatic qualities that complement beef's robust flavor
- Best for
- grilled steak, steak marinades, steak rubs, steak sauces
Similar earthy flavor, works well in Mediterranean-style steaks.
Sage
different taste, similar texture
Sage adds earthy, slightly bitter notes that enhance the natural flavor of beef
- Best for
- pan-seared steak, steak rubs, steak butter, steak sauces
More intense, slightly bitter flavor, excellent in hearty preparations.
Marjoram
similar taste and texture
Marjoram offers a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that complements beef without overwhelming
- Best for
- steak marinades, steak butter, steak sauces
Slightly sweeter than thyme, good for delicate steak preparations.
Herbes de Provence
similar taste and texture
Herbes de Provence blend includes thyme and other herbs that work well together with beef
- Best for
- grilled steak, steak marinades, steak rubs
Contains thyme plus other herbs, excellent for French-style steaks.
Garlic + black pepper
different taste and texture
This combination provides savory depth that complements beef's natural flavor
- Best for
- steak rubs, steak marinades, steak butter
Simple combination that enhances beef flavor.
How it behaves in this recipe
Steak's robust flavor can handle bold herbs, making thyme substitution relatively forgiving. The key is choosing herbs that complement beef's natural richness without overwhelming it, and considering the cooking method when selecting substitutes.
Tips for substituting thyme
6 tips- Steak can handle bold herbs, so don't be afraid to use more intense substitutes like rosemary or sage
- Use fresh herbs for marinades and rubs, dried herbs for long-cooking preparations
- Add herbs to steak butter for finishing grilled or pan-seared steaks
- For grilled steak, brush with herb-infused oil during cooking
- Use herb stems to make beef stock for pan sauces
- Let steaks rest with herbs after cooking to allow flavors to penetrate
Notes on thyme
- Use herb butter to finish grilled or pan-seared steaks
- Make herb-infused oil for grilling or pan-searing
- Create a herb rub with salt, pepper, and your chosen substitute
- Use herb stems in beef stock for pan sauces
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best thyme substitute for grilled steak?
For grilled steak, rosemary or oregano work best. Herbes de Provence is also excellent for a more complex flavor profile.
Can I use sage instead of thyme in steak marinades?
Yes, sage works well in steak marinades, though it's more intense than thyme. It pairs particularly well with beef's robust flavor.
What herbs work best in steak butter as thyme substitutes?
Rosemary, sage, and marjoram all work well in steak butter. Fresh herbs are preferred for the best flavor.
How much rosemary should I use to replace thyme in steak rubs?
Use the same amount of rosemary as you would thyme - a 1:1 ratio works well, though rosemary is more intense so you can use slightly less if preferred.
What's the best substitute for thyme in steak sauce?
For steak sauce, oregano or marjoram work best as they provide similar earthy notes without being too intense for the sauce.