What can I substitute for chilli flakes?

Running low on chilli flakes? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.

chilli flakes — ingredient substitution guide — Photo by 金枫郭 on Pexels

About chilli flakes

Chilli flakes are dried and crushed red chillies, typically including the seeds, that deliver a moderate to hot level of heat and a slightly fruity, smoky flavour to dishes. They are a staple spice used across Italian, Mexican, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines to add warmth to sauces, marinades, pizzas, and stir-fries. Unlike chilli powder, chilli flakes retain a coarser texture and a more pronounced, layered heat that blooms when toasted in oil.

Best substitute

cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is a finely ground chilli powder with a clean, sharp heat that works well when you need heat without visible flakes. It is hotter than most chilli flake blends, so use a smaller quantity and adjust to taste.

Use ¼ tsp for every 1 tsp of chilli flakes

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Alternative

fresh red chilli

Finely chopped fresh red chilli replicates the heat and fruity flavour of chilli flakes while adding a little moisture. Deseed the chilli for a milder result, or leave the seeds in for equivalent heat.

Use ½–1 fresh chilli for every 1 tsp of chilli flakes

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What is chilli flakes called in other countries?

Country	Name
Australia	chilli flakes
Canada	red pepper flakes
New Zealand	chilli flakes
United Kingdom	chilli flakes
United States	red pepper flakes

Common names for chilli flakes

crushed red pepperdried chilli flakesred chilli flakescrushed chilli

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Standard chilli powder is a blend of ground chillies and other spices such as cumin and garlic powder, so it will alter the flavour profile slightly. It still provides good heat and works well in cooked dishes where the blend of spices is not an issue.

Use ½ tsp for every 1 tsp of chilli flakes

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Alternative

smoked paprika

Smoked paprika provides a deep, smoky flavour with mild heat, making it a good substitute when you want warmth without significant spiciness. It works especially well in Spanish and Mexican-inspired dishes where smokiness is welcome.

Use 1 tsp for every 1 tsp of chilli flakes, then add a pinch of cayenne if more heat is needed

stewsmeat rubsroastingsaucesdishes requiring sharp heatAsian cuisine

Alternative

chipotle chilli flakes

Chipotle chilli flakes are made from smoke-dried jalapeños and deliver a rich, smoky heat that is an excellent alternative when a deeper, more complex chilli flavour is desired. They are slightly milder than standard chilli flakes but add a distinctive smokiness.

Use 1 tsp for every 1 tsp of chilli flakes

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