Fish lovers, we’ve all hit that “Oh no, no mahi-mahi” moment. It’s a bummer, especially when you’re all prepped and ready to cook.
Don’t worry though, there are some amazing substitutes that will make you forget mahi-mahi even existed. We’ve tried these options and found them to be just as tasty.
From tender cod to flaky halibut, you’ll be amazed at how versatile these alternatives are. Ready to get cooking?
Let’s explore some fantastic mahi-mahi substitutes that will elevate your next meal.

7 Easy Substitutes for Mahi-mahi
While nothing can truly replace the unique taste and texture of mahi-mahi, these substitutes come pretty close. They are all delicious, healthy, and easy to find at your local grocery store.
1 – Cod
First off, cod is our go-to pick for a mahi-mahi substitute. Why? It’s mild and slightly sweet. Quite close to mahi-mahi in flavor but with a softer texture.
We love making fish tacos with cod. The flakes hold the seasoning perfectly. Need ideas? You might want to check out some options for this fish at best substitutes for cod.
For a 1:1 swap in recipes, use cod in your mahi-mahi dishes. It’s versatile and super easy to cook!
2 – Haddock
The next rockstar on our list is haddock. It’s a star with a sweet, mild taste that reminds us of our go-to fish. The texture? It’s firm and flaky, perfect for pan-searing or fish and chips.
We find it does wonders in soups and stews, thanks to its firm hold. For a close flavor match, use a 1:1 ratio of haddock for mahi-mahi recipes.
Need more ideas? Check out our best haddock substitutes. Haddock is a keeper, and it’s easy to cook too!
3 – Snapper
While having no mahi-mahi can be a letdown, snapper steps up as a true challenger. The flavor is mild and sweet, much like mahi-mahi, but with a bit more bite. It’s firm and has a slight glow when cooked.
Snapper’s firm flesh is perfect for grilling and pan-frying. We’ve used it in our fish tacos, and it holds up great! Swap it 1:1 in recipes calling for mahi-mahi. Trust us, you won’t miss a beat with snapper.
Looking for more options? Check out our red snapper substitutes.
4 – Halibut
The lowdown on halibut — another great mahi-mahi alternative. This fish has a mild, sweet flavor that’s almost delicate, perfect for those who prefer a lighter taste.
We’ve tried halibut grilled, baked, and even in stews. It holds its form well, making it super versatile. Halibut’s firm texture makes it perfect for grilling or baking. We like to use a 1:1 swap in our recipes, and it doesn’t disappoint.
Interested in more fish options? Check out best halibut substitutes for more ideas. Halibut keeps things tasty and simple.
5 – Grouper
If you’re missing mahi-mahi, grouper is a solid backup. It has a mild flavor, slightly sweet, with firm, moist flesh. We love its meaty texture, which holds up in various dishes.
Grill it, bake it, or even use it in stews; grouper stays firm and delicious. We often use it as a 1:1 substitute in our mahi-mahi recipes.
Check out more options at best grouper substitutes. Grouper is versatile and easy to cook, making it a reliable choice.
6 – Sea Bass
The champion of our list is sea bass. It has a rich, buttery flavor with a firm texture. You’ll notice it’s more delicate compared to mahi-mahi, but still holds up well in dishes. We love grilling sea bass for its natural sweetness and flaky texture. Use a 1:1 swap in recipes for mahi-mahi. It’s versatile and easy to cook.
Want more options? Check out our sea bass substitutes. Sea bass will keep your meals tasty and straightforward.
7 – Tuna
Last but not least, let’s talk tuna. Tuna’s got a strong flavor that’s right up our alley. It’s meaty and versatile, making it a great substitute for mahi-mahi.
We love grilling or searing it, and it holds marinades well. Use a 1:1 swap in your recipes. It’s perfect in salads and sandwiches too. Don’t forget to check out more info on tuna substitutes if you’re curious.
Our tip? Sear it briefly for a delicious crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cod can substitute for mahi-mahi, but it’s flakier and milder. It works best in recipes where the fish doesn’t need to hold its shape as firmly as mahi-mahi.
Haddock is a great option for mahi-mahi, offering a similar firm texture and mild flavor, perfect for grilling or frying.
Snapper can be a great replacement in fish tacos, offering a slightly firmer texture than mahi-mahi while still holding up well in tacos with toppings and sauces.
Halibut has a firmer, meatier texture than mahi-mahi but can be used in similar recipes. It’s perfect for grilling or roasting when you need a fish that holds its shape.

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.