Substitute for Chili Pepper: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for chili pepper is Red Pepper Flakes at a Use 33% ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Red Pepper Flakes
Use 33%
You can use Red Pepper Flakes in place of chili pepper when needed. Use 33% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chili pepper, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
What are the other substitutes for chili pepper?
Chili Paste
Use 50%
Chili Paste works as a substitute for chili pepper in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chili pepper, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Chili Powder (ground dried chili)
Use 50%
Chili Powder (ground dried chili) works as a substitute for chili pepper in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chili pepper, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Dried Chili Pepper
Use 50%
You can use Dried Chili Pepper in place of chili pepper when needed. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chili pepper, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting chili pepper?
Red Pepper Flakes is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to chili pepper in everyday cooking. Use 33% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Potency varies a lot with dried spices and herbs, so taste as you go instead of making the full adjustment at once.
How do you substitute chili pepper in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for chili pepper and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Red Pepper Flakes is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 33% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role chili pepper plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for chili pepper depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Red Pepper Flakes (Use 33%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Chili Paste (Use 50%) is another reliable choice. Chili Paste works as a substitute for chili pepper in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chili pepper, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
When substituting chili pepper, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Chili Pepper?
Red Pepper Flakes is the best place to start for chili pepper. Use 33% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Chili Pepper?
This page lists 4 substitutes for chili pepper. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.