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6 Easy Morel Mushroom Substitutes to Try in Recipes

Morel mushrooms are amazing, but finding them? That’s a whole other story.

Lucky for us, there are some great substitutes that step up when morels are missing.

We’ve tried quite a few and discovered some flavorful swaps that work in all kinds of dishes.

From earthy options to something with that same satisfying texture, these alternatives deliver every time. 

The best part? Many of them are easy to track down and might already be in your fridge or pantry.

No need to put your recipe on hold—these substitutes have got you covered.

6 Easy Substitutes for Morel Mushrooms

Here’s what to use instead of morel mushrooms:

1 – Chanterelle Mushrooms

First on our list are chanterelle mushrooms. They have a texture similar to morels.

Their earthy, nutty flavor is milder and less smoky compared to morels.

Their golden color makes dishes visually appealing. Use them in the same amount as morels when substituting.

Cook them longer as they take more time to soften. They also release less moisture, giving a firmer texture.

For more ideas on using chanterelle mushrooms, check out our chanterelle substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.

2 – Oyster Mushrooms

Another great substitute for morel mushrooms is oyster mushrooms. They have a similar texture and can easily be found at most grocery stores.

Their flavor is mild, delicate, and slightly sweet, making them versatile in many dishes. They’re also known for their health benefits, being rich in antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds.

Use them at a 1:1 ratio in your recipe, but keep in mind they release more moisture than morels, so adjust cooking times if needed. For best flavor, sauté them until golden to bring out their natural umami.

For more ideas on using oyster mushrooms, check out our oyster mushroom substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.

3 – Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms work well when we need a stand-in for morels. They bring that earthy flavor and chewy texture we want in stews, sautés, and sauces.

While their taste is milder, they still hold up beautifully in recipes. Dried shiitakes, once soaked, offer a deeper, richer punch, making them closer to morels in intensity.

Use a 1:1 ratio to replace morels, adjusting seasonings as needed. Their firmer bite mimics the satisfying texture of morels, especially in cream-based or brothy dishes.

Plus, they’re easy to find, making them an accessible, reliable option when we don’t have morels on hand.

For more ideas on using shiitake mushrooms, check out our shiitake substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.

4 – Cremini Mushrooms

Cremini mushrooms are our go-to option when morels are out of reach. They have a mild earthiness and a firm texture that works in most recipes calling for morels.

They hold up well in sautés, stews, and even rich sauces. While they’re less intense in flavor, they still bring enough depth to keep dishes balanced.

A 1:1 substitute ratio works great, but you can slightly increase the seasoning to compensate. Their small size and sturdy bite mimic morels nicely.

Plus, they’re way easier to find and affordable, making them a practical choice for all kinds of dishes.

For more ideas on using cremini mushrooms, check out our cremini substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.

5 – Porcini Mushrooms

If you can get your hands on porcini mushrooms, they make an excellent substitute for morels. They have that same woodsy flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes and hearty stews.

While they’re a bit pricier, their robust taste makes up for it. They also add depth to soups and gravies without overpowering them.

Use at a 1:1 ratio when substituting for morels, adding them towards the end of cooking time. Their meaty texture is ideal in recipes calling for morels as the star ingredient.

For more ideas on using porcini mushrooms, check out our porcini substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.

6 – Maitake Mushrooms

Last but not least on our list is maitake mushrooms. They’re a bit harder to find, but their rich, earthy flavor and firm texture make them an excellent stand-in for morels.

They taste slightly nutty and have a meaty bite when cooked, making them perfect for adding depth to dishes.

Use at a 1:1 ratio in place of morels, adjusting cooking times as needed. Their hearty texture makes them ideal in vegan or vegetarian recipes calling for morels.

For more ideas on using maitake mushrooms, check out our maitake substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are chanterelle mushrooms a good substitute for morel mushrooms?

Yes, chanterelle mushrooms have a fruity, delicate flavor that works well as a morel substitute, though they offer a different texture. They’re great in sauces and soups.

Can oyster mushrooms replace morel mushrooms in cooking?

Oyster mushrooms are a versatile option with a mild flavor, making them a decent substitute for morels. Their texture is softer, but they still provide a rich mushroom taste.

Can shiitake mushrooms replace morel mushrooms in a dish?

Shiitake mushrooms are a great alternative with a more intense, earthy flavor. While they’re denser and have a different texture, they’re ideal in dishes that need a rich, savory punch.

Can cremini mushrooms be used instead of morel mushrooms?

Cremini mushrooms are an excellent substitute for morels in most recipes. They have a mild, earthy flavor and a firm texture, making them a great option for sautéing or in sauces.

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