Best Substitutes for Thyme in Cooking

By Priya Sharma · January 24, 2026

If you're looking for what can be used in place of thyme, the best substitutes include oregano, marjoram, rosemary, savory, and herbes de Provence. These herbs offer similar earthy, slightly minty, or floral notes that make them excellent replacements in soups, stews, meats, and vegetable dishes.

Why Substitute Thyme?

Thyme is a staple in many cuisines, especially Mediterranean and French cooking. However, there are several reasons you might need a substitute:

You've run out of thyme
It's not available seasonally or locally
You're adjusting flavor intensity for dietary or taste preferences
Allergies or sensitivities to thyme (rare but possible)

Top Substitutes for Thyme

Oregano

A close relative in the Lamiaceae family, oregano shares thyme’s earthy and slightly bitter profile. It's stronger than thyme, so use 3/4 teaspoon of dried oregano for every 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.

Marjoram

Sweet and floral with a mild citrus note, marjoram is often called "gentler oregano." It works well in poultry, stuffing, and tomato-based sauces. Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting for thyme.

Rosemary

Pine-like and robust, rosemary can overpower if overused. Best in roasted meats and hearty vegetables. Use only 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary per 1 teaspoon thyme.

Savory (Summer or Winter)

Peppery and thyme-like, summer savory is nearly identical in flavor. A 1:1 substitute in bean dishes, sausages, and stews.

Herbes de Provence

This blend typically contains thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and lavender. If your mix includes thyme, reduce other thyme in the recipe. Otherwise, use 1:1 as a flavorful alternative.

Flavor Comparison of Thyme Substitutes

Herb	Flavor Profile	Substitution Ratio (to 1 tsp thyme)	Better In	Less Suitable For
Oregano (dried)	Earthy, pungent, slightly bitter	3/4 tsp	Pasta sauces, pizza, grilled meats	Delicate soups, desserts
Marjoram (dried)	Sweet, floral, mild citrus	1 tsp	Poultry, vegetables, dressings	Strongly spiced curries
Rosemary (dried)	Pine-like, camphorous, intense	1/2 tsp	Lamb, roasted potatoes, breads	Fish, creamy sauces
Summer Savory (dried)	Peppery, thyme-like, subtle mint	1 tsp	Beans, lentils, sausages	Desserts, beverages
Herbes de Provence	Floral, herbal, variable by blend	1 tsp	Roasts, stews, grilled veggies	Fish, mild cheeses

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The table above shows that substitution ratios vary based on potency. Dried rosemary is significantly stronger than thyme, requiring less volume, while savory and marjoram offer closer one-to-one matches. Flavor compatibility depends heavily on the dish type—stronger herbs like rosemary may overwhelm delicate proteins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thyme Substitutes

Can I use Italian seasoning instead of thyme?

Yes, Italian seasoning often contains thyme along with oregano, basil, and rosemary. Use a 1:1 ratio, but taste as you go since blends vary in strength and composition.

Is oregano a good replacement for thyme?

Yes, oregano is one of the best thyme substitutes due to its similar earthy and aromatic qualities. Use slightly less—about 3/4 tsp oregano per 1 tsp thyme—to avoid overpowering the dish.

What is the closest herb to thyme in flavor?

Summer savory is the closest match in flavor, offering a peppery, minty profile almost identical to thyme. It's ideal for savory dishes like beans, stews, and meat rubs.

Can I skip thyme in a recipe?

You can omit thyme, but you’ll lose depth and aroma. In long-cooked dishes like stews, skipping it may result in a flatter flavor. Consider adding a bay leaf or pinch of marjoram to compensate.

Are fresh and dried thyme interchangeable?

Yes, but adjust quantities: use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for every 1 tablespoon of fresh. Dried thyme is more concentrated, so less is needed.

In summary, multiple herbs can effectively replace thyme depending on the recipe and desired flavor profile. Oregano, marjoram, savory, and herbes de Provence are top choices, each bringing unique nuances while preserving the dish’s aromatic balance. Always consider substitution ratios and dish compatibility for best results.