Ran out of liquid smoke and your BBQ is crying for help? We’ve all been in that sticky spot.
Seriously, your grill parties shouldn’t suffer.
Here’s a crazy truth: there are top-notch swaps that can save your menu. Think outside the bottle.
Ever tried smoked paprika on those ribs? Game changer.
Or how about a dash of chipotle powder in that marinade? Your taste will thank us.
We dove deep into our kitchens, experimented like mad scientists, and came out with five rock-solid alternatives.
Ready for a flavor revolution? Sit tight. This is going to get deliciously interesting.

5 Easy Substitutes for Liquid Smoke
The key to finding a good substitute for liquid smoke is understanding its flavor profile. Liquid smoke is essentially condensed smoke, giving dishes that smoky, BBQ-like taste. Keeping this in mind, here are five flavorful swaps you can use in your recipes:
Substitute | Taste | Texture | Suitable Dishes |
Smoked Paprika | Smoky, slightly sweet | Powdery | Soups, stews, marinades, rubs |
Chipotle Powder | Smoky, spicy | Powdery | Chili, tacos, barbecue dishes |
Worcestershire Sauce | Savory, umami | Liquid | Burgers, meatloaf, marinades |
Barbecue Sauce | Sweet, tangy, smoky | Thick, spreadable | Grilled meats, baked beans, dips |
Hickory Seasoning | Intense smoky, slightly sweet | Powdery | Roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, dips |
1 – Smoked Paprika
Smoked Paprika brings warmth and depth to your dishes. It’s a ground spice made from dried, smoked red peppers. This gives any meal a smoky flavor without the liquid.
We think of it as a secret weapon in the pantry. Just a sprinkle can transform a recipe. It’s perfect for those who love a hint of smoke in their food. A little goes a long way.
For every teaspoon of liquid smoke, we use half a teaspoon of smoked paprika. It blends well in most recipes.
Looking for more ideas on how to use this awesome spice? Check out our guide on how to swap smoked paprika in recipes.
2 – Chipotle Powder
Chipotle powder is the dried, powdered form of smoked jalapenos. It’s spicy and smoky. This powder adds a nice kick to any dish, mimicking the smokiness of liquid smoke.
We toss it into chili and soups for that extra zing. A smidge can change a dish’s game. For every teaspoon of liquid smoke, try a quarter teaspoon of chipotle powder instead.
It meshes well in a bunch of recipes. Bold and versatile. If your recipes need that smoky spice, chipotle’s your go-to.
Curious about other ways to use this spice? You might find our guide on smoke-infused spices handy for your next culinary creation.
3 – Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce steps in with a savory depth. It mingles well in stews and meat dishes. We toss it in for that umami hit. Zing without the smoke, that’s what it brings.
This sauce has got a tangy, slightly sweet kick. It mirrors the complex profile of liquid smoke. We mix it in marinades and dressings. Every tablespoon of liquid smoke? We swap in a teaspoon of Worcestershire.
Keen on discovering more about this swap? Find how it can shift your cooking game at this helpful guide on substitutes for Worcestershire sauce.
4 – Barbecue Sauce
Barbecue sauce makes everything better. It’s a simple truth.
This swap brings a smoky sweetness to dishes. A perfect substitute for liquid smoke.
With barbecue sauce, we get a thick texture and a rich flavor profile. It’s ideal for brushing on meats or mixing into baked beans.
For every teaspoon of liquid smoke, we use a tablespoon of barbecue sauce. This ratio keeps flavors balanced.
In need of more swap tips? Our guide on barbecue sauce alternatives might be what you’re looking for. Check it out here.
5 – Hickory Seasoning
Hickory seasoning steps right up with a bold, smoky vibe.
It’s your secret weapon for mimicking a classic barbecue flavor.
For each teaspoon of liquid smoke, go for half a teaspoon of hickory seasoning.
It’s a simple swap that works wonders. We’ve tossed it into soups and even popcorn for a smoky twist.
Hickory seasoning shines in a variety of dishes. It blends seamlessly, adding that sought-after smoky aroma.
Got a recipe that needs a smoky kick? Hickory does the trick.
Easy to use and perfect for giving your meals a smoky edge without overpowering them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smoked paprika provides a smoky flavor similar to liquid smoke and works great in rubs and sauces.
Yes, chipotle powder offers both smokiness and a spicy kick, which is ideal for adding depth to your dishes.
Worcestershire sauce adds some umami and tang, but it’s not as smoky, so you may need additional seasonings like paprika.
Barbecue sauce can add sweetness and smokiness, making it a good substitute in marinades or glazes, though it’s thicker than liquid smoke.
Yes, hickory seasoning imparts a deep, smoky flavor similar to liquid smoke, especially in grilled and roasted dishes.

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.