We’ve all run out of adobo seasoning at the worst times. You’re halfway through a recipe, ready to sprinkle in that smoky, garlicky magic, and then—nothing.
Adobo seasoning is one of those pantry essentials that feels irreplaceable, but guess what? It’s totally replaceable. We’ve tried different substitutes that can step in like pros and still deliver the flavor you need.
Some options might already be hiding in your spice rack. Others take a little creativity (we’re looking at you, DIY mixes).
The best part? You don’t need to be a flavor scientist to pull them off. Stick around as we share seven easy, tasty alternatives that’ll keep your meals on flavor point.
7 Easy Substitutes for Adobo Seasoning
Here are seven adobo seasoning substitutes that’ll save the day in a pinch.
1 – Homemade Adobo Seasoning
It all started when I ran out of adobo seasoning and needed a quick fix. Making homemade adobo seasoning works like a charm. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add a pinch of turmeric, if available.
Use equal amounts of this mix as you would regular adobo seasoning. It’s versatile and easy to adjust for your taste. Want more kick? Increase the paprika or pepper. Prefer less salt? Scale it back.
This blend works well for meats, veggies, and soups. You control the flavor, so nothing feels off. Homemade blends bring the same balanced spices. There’s no guessing what’s in it. It’s all there in plain sight.
No need for exotic ingredients. Most, if not all, could already sit in your pantry. This substitute keeps things simple and efficient. It’s like adobo seasoning, just fresher and fully customizable.
2 – Taco Seasoning
Some recipes insist on taco seasoning, but what if you’re out? This one substitute will save your recipe, and it’s crazy simple. Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt. Adjust proportions easily to match your taste.
Use two teaspoons of this mix for every standard packet of taco seasoning. It balances smoky, earthy, and savory flavors perfectly. Add extra paprika for color or cayenne for heat. It’s flexible, quick, and uses pantry staples.
The best part? You control how much salt goes in. It’s also sodium-free if that’s your thing. Great for tacos, roasted veggies, or even scrambled eggs. Toss it on anything.
Want more details? Check out this taco seasoning substitutes guide for other creative options.
3 – Garlic Powder and Oregano Mix
If you’ve ever been stuck without garlic powder, grab oregano. Mixing these two spices works surprisingly well. Use equal parts garlic powder and oregano to create an earthy, aromatic blend. It’s simple and fast.
Oregano adds a fresh, herby kick. Garlic powder brings that bold, classic flavor. This combo works in sauces, marinades, or dry rubs. Start with half a teaspoon of each for every teaspoon of garlic powder needed.
It’s pantry-friendly and adaptable. Need more garlic flavor? Add a pinch of minced garlic or garlic salt. Want more depth? Toss in dried parsley or thyme.
We use it on roasted veggies or to spice up soups and dips. It’s a lifesaver for quick fixes. Craving more ideas? Check out this handy garlic powder substitutes guide for extra inspiration.
4 – Chili Powder
It all started when I ran out of garlic powder. Chili powder works like magic in a pinch. It adds heat, color, and a smoky undertone. Plus, it’s super easy to use.
Start with half a teaspoon of chili powder for every teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust based on how bold you like your flavors. The spice mix often contains cumin, paprika, and other earthy notes, giving dishes a layered kick.
It’s great in stir-fries, soups, and even roasted vegetables. Skip adding extra salt if your chili powder blend is already seasoned. Just taste and tweak as you go.
If you’re curious about other swaps, check our detailed chili powder substitutes guide for handy options.
5 – Creole Seasoning
This one substitute will save your recipe without missing a beat—Creole seasoning. It brings bold, savory, and punchy flavors to the table. Think paprika, cayenne, garlic, and a medley of spices in one blend.
Swap it in with the ratio of one teaspoon of Creole seasoning for every teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust if you want less spice. Creole seasoning shines in soups, stews, and marinades. It’s a bit salt-heavy, so skip extra seasoning until you taste it.
It’s perfect for savory dishes like gumbo or roasted meats. Try it in dry rubs or toss it into roasted veggies for extra flavor. The all-purpose nature of Creole seasoning offers versatility across recipes.
For more precise options and substitutes, check this handy guide to Creole seasoning substitutes.
6 – Cajun Seasoning
You’ll never believe how easy it is to use Cajun seasoning as a garlic powder substitute. It’s a blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic, which means it gives your dish a bold kick while keeping salty flavors in check. Use one teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for every teaspoon of garlic powder. Adjust the amount if you want extra heat or flavor.
Cajun seasoning works great in hearty dishes. Think roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even soups. It brings a spicy, savory punch without messing up your recipe’s balance. It has salt and heat, so hold off extra seasoning until you taste-test.
This blend is versatile and widely loved, making it a useful pantry swap. If you’re curious about more swaps, check out this guide on Cajun seasoning substitutes for extra ideas.
7 – Lemon Pepper Seasoning
You’ll never believe how easy it is to use lemon pepper seasoning as a garlic powder substitute. It’s bold, zesty, and gives every dish a tangy twist. Use one teaspoon of lemon pepper seasoning for every teaspoon of garlic powder. It might sound strange, but the citrusy vibe works surprisingly well.
This seasoning is perfect for lighter dishes like seafood, vegetables, or salads. It adds a pop of flavor without being overwhelming. Make sure to check the salt content before adding more.
Some recipes insist on fresh garlic, but this dry blend works in a pinch. It combines tangy lemon, cracked pepper, and savory notes. Curious about its versatility? Check out this guide on lemon pepper substitutes to learn more creative ways to swap flavors.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.