We’ve all been there—prepping something at home and suddenly realizing we’re out of butcher paper. It happened to us just last weekend during a BBQ. We had to scramble and figure out alternatives on the spot. Spoiler alert, some of them worked better than expected!
Butcher paper isn’t always around, and honestly, it’s good to have backup options. Some swaps are already sitting in your pantry or cupboard, waiting to save the day. From baking to wrapping up leftovers, these substitutes get the job done without missing a beat.
It’s wild how versatile common household items can be.
5 Quick Substitutes for Butcher Paper
Here are five butcher paper substitutes you can easily use at home:
1 – Parchment Paper
Parchment paper works well when you’re out of butcher paper. It’s thin, non-stick, and heat-resistant, making it great for cooking and wrapping. Use it 1:1 in most cases, especially for baking or lining trays.
We’ve used it to wrap meats, and while it isn’t as sturdy, it holds up fine. Unlike butcher paper, it doesn’t absorb juices, so it’s better for dry or low-moisture needs. It’s versatile and handles temperatures up to 450°F without burning.
If you’re curious about other alternatives to parchment, you can check out this handy guide on parchment paper replacements.
2 – Foil Wrap
Foil wrap easily takes the place of butcher paper. Use it 1:1 for wrapping, cooking, or storing food. It holds up well under high heat, making it ideal for grilling or roasting.
We’ve tried it for smoking meats, and it locks in moisture way better than butcher paper. The downside? Foil doesn’t breathe, so it can make the texture a little softer. For dry rubs or crispy finishes, it might not work as well.
It’s super sturdy and great for sealing in flavors during cooking, especially for wet or high-moisture dishes.
3 – Wax Paper
Wax paper can step in for butcher paper in a few cases. Use it 1:1 for wrapping or covering food, but avoid high-heat tasks. It’s great for protecting surfaces or bundling up dry items.
We’ve used it to hold sandwiches and baked goods, and it worked just fine. Unlike butcher paper, wax paper melts and sticks under heat, so it’s not for grilling or roasting. For cold or room-temperature uses, it’s reliable and easy to manage.
Its non-stick coating also helps with messy prep tasks, keeping things neat when working with sticky ingredients.
4 – Freezer Paper
Freezer paper works as a solid alternative to butcher paper. Use it 1:1 for wrapping or storing meats and other foods. Its wax coating on one side helps keep moisture in.
We’ve tried it for freezing cuts of meat, and it prevents freezer burn surprisingly well. Unlike butcher paper, it’s not breathable, so it traps moisture completely. That’s great for long-term storage, though less ideal for cooking.
It’s sturdy and holds up well for wrapping messy or juicy items without leaking. Just don’t use it near heat, as the wax could melt.
5 – Brown Kraft Paper
Brown kraft paper can work in place of butcher paper in quite a few ways. Use it 1:1 for wrapping or serving food items like sandwiches or baked goods. It’s strong and holds shape well.
We’ve used it for BBQs to wrap up briskets and ribs during resting, and it held together without tearing. Unlike butcher paper, it’s not coated, so it doesn’t lock in moisture as much. That makes it better for tasks like smoking meats where airflow is important.
It’s affordable, easy to find, and safe for food contact, though keep it away from greasy or overly wet items unless you double-wrap.
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.