Best Garlic Substitutes
Out of garlic? These are the best garlic substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 5 options will have you covered.
Garlic Substitution Options
⅛ tsp Garlic Powder
Use instead of 1 clove Garlic (about 1 tsp minced)
Garlic powder is more concentrated — ⅛ tsp equals roughly 1 fresh clove. It blends seamlessly into sauces, soups, and dry rubs but won't brown the same way.
Minced Shallot
Use instead of 1 clove Garlic
Shallots have a milder, slightly sweeter flavor than garlic with a hint of onion. Use them raw in dressings and vinaigrettes or sautéed anywhere garlic would go.
Chives, finely chopped
Use instead of 1 clove Garlic
Chives provide a gentle allium flavor without garlic's pungency — ideal when garlic might overpower a delicate dish like eggs, seafood, or light cream sauces.
½ tsp Asafoetida (hing)
Use instead of 1 clove Garlic
A tiny amount of asafoetida delivers a powerful garlic-onion aroma and is a traditional garlic substitute in Indian cooking. Use sparingly — it's very strong raw but mellows when cooked in oil.
Leek, finely chopped (white part)
Use instead of 1 clove Garlic
The white part of a leek offers a mild, sweet allium flavor. Best used sautéed, as it softens beautifully and works well in soups, risotto, and pasta sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for garlic?
The best substitutes for garlic are ⅛ tsp Garlic Powder, Minced Shallot, Chives, finely chopped. Garlic powder is more concentrated — ⅛ tsp equals roughly 1 fresh clove. It blends seamlessly into sauces, soups, and dry rubs but won't brown the same way.
Can I use Minced Shallot instead of garlic?
Shallots have a milder, slightly sweeter flavor than garlic with a hint of onion. Use them raw in dressings and vinaigrettes or sautéed anywhere garlic would go.
How do I substitute garlic in baking?
When substituting garlic in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.