Hungary's national spice is popular around the world, but if it's not currently in your spice rack, these are the best paprika substitutes for whatever you’re cooking.
Use 1 tsp pimento powder if using it as a sweet paprika substitute – for more heat, you may need to increase your measurements. Use as the recipe instructs.
Ancho pepper powder
Use ½ tsp of ancho pepper powder as the flavor is more concentrated. Use as the recipe instructs.
Bell pepper powder
Use 2 tsp of bell pepper powder. Use as the recipe instructs.
Chipotle pepper powder
Being significantly hotter than hot paprika, use ¼ to ½ tsp. You can use up to a 1:1 ratio if you enjoy spicy food but it will likely change the color of your dish. Use as the recipe instructs.
Guajillo pepper powder
Use ½ tsp guajillo – you can increase it if you prefer a spicier dish. Use as the recipe instructs.
Gochugaru powder
Use ½ gochugaru powder to substitute hot or smoked paprika. Use as the recipe instructs.
Cayenne pepper powder
Depending on how much spice you like, use ¼ tsp or ½ tsp of cayenne powder. Use as the recipe instructs.
Aleppo powder
Use ¼ to ½ tsp of Aleppo pepper in place of paprika. Depending on your spice preference, you can increase or decrease as you prefer. Use as the recipe instructs.
Chili powder
Depending on your spice tolerance levels, use ¼ to ½ tsp of chili powder, though you can adjust to taste. Chili powder is best used in small amounts, so use sparingly.
Cajun spice
Use 1 tsp of cajun spice when substituting sweet or smoked paprika. Use as the recipe instructs.
Hot sauce
Use 1 tsp of hot sauce. You may want to alter this depending on how spicy the hot sauce you're using is. Use as the recipe instructs.
Gochujang (red pepper paste)
Depending on your spice tolerance, use ½ to 1 tsp. Start small and taste, working your way up until it's at your desired taste. Use as the recipe instructs.
Red pepper flakes (ground/crushed)
Use 1 tsp of red pepper flakes when substituting for smoked or hot paprika – you can adjust based on the recipe and your spice levels. Use as the recipe instructs.
Black or white Pepper
Use 1 tsp of black or white pepper. Use as the recipe instructs.
Tomato powder
Use 2 tsp of tomato powder – you may want to add more or less depending on the color you want. Pair with other spices to bring heat if you prefer. Use as the recipe instructs.