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7 Best Onion Substitutes When You're Out (Fresh & Dried Options)

Don't let missing onions stop your cooking - these alternatives add the same savory depth

5 min read

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Quick Answer

Best onion substitutes: Onion powder (1 tbsp per 1 medium onion) for convenience, shallots (1 large per 1 medium onion) for similar flavor, or garlic + celery (2 cloves + ¼ cup) for aromatic base. Each provides the savory foundation onions give.

Few ingredients are as fundamental to cooking as onions, but running out doesn't have to ruin your recipe! Onions provide sweetness, depth, and that essential savory base for countless dishes.

After testing various substitutes in soups, stir-fries, and sauces, I've found several alternatives that deliver similar flavor profiles and cooking properties.

Whether you need fresh alternatives or pantry substitutes, here are 7 options that will keep your cooking on track.

The 3 Best Substitutes

1. Onion Powder

Easy

(4/5)

Substitution Ratio

1 tablespoon per 1 medium onion

Texture: No crunch, dissolves in cooking

Flavor: Concentrated onion flavor

Best for: Soups, stews, marinades, dry rubs

Pros & Cons

Always available

Long shelf life

Concentrated flavor

No prep needed

No texture

Different mouthfeel

Can clump

Less fresh taste

Pro Tip

Add early in cooking. Mix with oil first to prevent clumping. Great for marinades.

2. Shallots

Easy

(5/5)

Substitution Ratio

1 large shallot per 1 medium onion

Texture: Similar to onions, slightly finer

Flavor: Mild, sweet, sophisticated

Best for: Sautéing, vinaigrettes, delicate dishes

Pros & Cons

Very similar to onions

More refined flavor

Cook quickly

Great raw or cooked

More expensive

Smaller size

Milder flavor

Not always available

Pro Tip

Perfect for French cooking. Great in salad dressings. Cook gently to avoid bitterness.

3. Garlic + Celery

Easy

(4/5)

Substitution Ratio

2 cloves garlic + ¼ cup diced celery per 1 medium onion

Texture: Celery adds crunch, garlic dissolves

Flavor: Aromatic, savory base

Best for: Soups, stews, pasta sauces

Pros & Cons

Creates aromatic base

Usually have both ingredients

Adds depth

Good texture

Different flavor profile

Celery can be fibrous

Stronger garlic taste

Pro Tip

Sauté celery first until soft. Add garlic at the end. Great for mirepoix base.

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7 Best Onion Substitutes When You're Out (Fresh & Dried) | Healthy Swap