Minced onions bring rich, savory depth to countless dishes. But what if you don’t have any on hand? Whether you’ve run out, want a more convenient option, or need an alternative for dietary reasons, there are plenty of ways to replace minced onions in your recipes.

Finding the proper minced onion substitute depends on the dish you’re making. Some substitutes offer a similar texture, while others provide the same flavor in a different form. Let’s dive into the best alternatives and how to use them!

Best Minced Onion Substitutes

1. Dorot Frozen Onions – Quick & Hassle-Free

✔ Ideal for: Soups, sauces, casseroles
Skip the chopping! Dorot frozen onions provide fresh flavor in convenient pre-measured cubes.

• 1 cube = 1 tsp minced onion
• No peeling, no tears—just drop and cook!

2. Fresh Onion – Closest Match

✔ Ideal for: Stir-fries, curries, slow-cooked meals
Chopped fresh onion works well, but adds moisture.

• ¼ cup chopped onion = 1 tbsp minced onion
• Sauté first for a milder taste.

3. Onion Flakes – Dry & Crunchy

✔ Ideal for: Spice blends, soups, rubs
Dried onion flakes rehydrate in liquid dishes.

• 1 tbsp onion flakes = 1 tbsp minced onion
• Grind for a finer texture.

4. Onion Powder – Flavor Without Texture

✔ Ideal for Sauces, marinades, dips
A concentrated alternative, perfect for smooth dishes.

• 1 tsp onion powder = 1 tbsp minced onion
• Blends seamlessly into liquids.

5. Shallots – Subtle & Sweet

✔ Ideal for: Pasta, seafood, dressings
Milder and slightly sweet, it is excellent for refined dishes. Works well as a minced onion substitute.

• 1 minced shallot = 1 tbsp minced onion
• Works well raw or sautéed.

6. Leeks – Mild & Savory

✔ Ideal for: Soups, stews, casseroles
Adds a gentle onion taste without overpowering.

• ½ cup chopped leeks = 1 tbsp minced onion
• Use white and light green parts only.

7. Scallions (Green Onions) – Fresh & Crisp

✔ Ideal for: Salsas, salads, Asian dishes
Bright, slightly peppery, best used raw or lightly cooked.

• 2 tbsp chopped scallions = 1 tbsp minced onion

8. Chives – Light & Herbal

✔ Ideal for: Garnishes, dips, egg dishes
Delicate onion flavor, perfect for fresh applications.

• 1 tbsp chopped chives = 1 tbsp minced onion

Need an easy fix? Dorot frozen onions provide all the flavor without the prep!

Quick Minced Onion Substitution Guide

Substitute	Best Used In	Ratio (Per Tbsp Minced Onion)
Dorot Frozen Onions	Soups, sauces, casseroles	1 cube = 1 tsp minced onion
Fresh Onion	Stir-fries, slow-cooked meals	¼ cup chopped onion
Onion Flakes	Spice blends, rubs, soups	1:1 ratio
Onion Powder	Dips, sauces, marinades	1 tsp onion powder
Shallots	Salads, pasta, gourmet recipes	1 minced shallot
Leeks	Broths, stews, casseroles	½ cup chopped leeks
Scallions	Salsas, tacos, and fresh dishes	2 tbsp chopped scallions
Chives	Garnishes, egg dishes, dressings	1 tbsp chopped chives

How to Properly Prepare Minced Onions

Want a ready supply of minced onions for your recipes? If you don’t want to use a minced onion substitute, follow this guide to prep and store minced onions for easy use anytime!  

Step 1: Prepare the Onion

• Peel off the outer skin and cut the onion halfway through the root.
• Keep the root intact—it helps hold the onion together while cutting.

Step 2: Make Vertical Cuts

• Place one-half flat-side down and make lengthwise cuts toward the root without slicing through it.
• Keep the slices close together for finer pieces.

Step 3: Make Horizontal Cuts

• Hold the onion firmly and make horizontal cuts, stopping before the root again.
• The more cuts you make, the smaller the mince.

Step 4: Chop for a Fine Mince

• Slice downward across the onion, creating evenly minced pieces.
• Run your knife through the pile for an even finer mince if needed.

Step 5: Choose Your Storage Method

• Freeze: Spread minced onions on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to an airtight container.  
• Refrigerate: Store in a sealed container for up to a week.  
• Dehydrate: Dry in an oven at 150°F or a food dehydrator, then store in an airtight jar.  

Now, you’ll always have minced onions ready for any dish!