Ingredient substitution guide
Best substitutes for sage
Best swap for sage: Thyme, 1:1; earthier, less pungent.
How we checked this: these swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes, and their ratios follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than one published chart. For exact amounts on many common swaps, see the NDSU and Colorado State University extension tables listed below. Editorial policy
What can I use instead of Sage?
The best swap for Sage is Thyme, 1:1; earthier, less pungent. Another option is Marjoram, 1:1; milder, slightly sweet. A third option is Rosemary, use half as much; more piney and intense. All 3 swaps are in the table below.
| Swap | Ratio and notes |
|---|---|
| Thyme | 1:1; earthier, less pungent |
| Marjoram | 1:1; milder, slightly sweet How to use it: Stir it in just before serving, since marjoram is a delicate herb that loses flavor in long cooking. |
| Rosemary | use half as much; more piney and intense |
Source and limits
These swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes to your kitchen, last updated . We remove swaps known to be unsafe, but not every swap has been tested in a kitchen, and a swap is cooking guidance, not an allergen or nutrition equivalent. Check labels and what the recipe needs before substituting.
The ratios and usage notes follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than a single published chart. These two university extension tables list exact amounts for many common swaps:
- Ingredient Substitutions (FN198), NDSU Extension (opens in a new tab)
- Ingredient Substitutions (9.329), Colorado State University Extension (opens in a new tab)
- University of Wyoming Extension, Spice It Up! Using Herbs and Spices (MP-121.3R) (opens in a new tab)
Browse every ingredient and read how these swaps are sourced.