The 5 Best Substitutes for Serrano (Ranked by Chefs)
Can't find Serrano? Or maybe you're looking for a substitute with a different flavor profile? You're in the right place.
The Serrano is a hot pepper with a heat level of 10,000-23,000 SHU.
We've analyzed dozens of chili peppers to find the best replacements for any situation. Whether you need something milder, hotter, or smokier, here are the top 5 Serrano substitutes, ranked for home cooking.
Top 5 Serrano Pepper Substitutes Ranked
🥇 1. Jalapeño
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Noticeably milder (1,000-20,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
🥈 2. Hungarian Wax
Best for: Best for getting the pepper flavor with much less heat—great for milder palates
Heat: Noticeably milder (1,000-15,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
🥉 3. Chile De Arbol
Best for: Best for when you want the same flavor profile but a noticeable step up in heat
Heat: Significantly hotter (a good step up) (22,500-22,500 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use a little less Chile De Arbol
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
4️⃣ 4. Aleppo
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Noticeably milder (10,000-10,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
5️⃣ 5. Cheongyang chili
Best for: Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor
Heat: Noticeably milder (10,000-10,000 SHU)
How Much to Use: Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor
Why it Works: Offers a good balance of heat, flavor, and availability for most recipes.
Heat & Flavor Comparison Table
| Pepper | Heat (SHU) | Flavor Notes | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serrano Pepper (Original) | 10,000-23,000 | N/A | Specialty stores |
| Jalapeño Pepper | 1,000-20,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Hungarian Wax Pepper | 1,000-15,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Chile De Arbol | 22,500-22,500 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Aleppo Pepper | 10,000-10,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
| Cheongyang chili pepper | 10,000-10,000 | N/A | Available in specialty stores or well-stocked supermarkets |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for Serrano?
The best substitute depends on your goal. The Jalapeño is the closest overall match. Best for slightly toning down the heat while keeping the pepper flavor Use on a 1-to-1 basis for volume and flavor.
Can I use jalapeño instead of Serrano?
Yes! Jalapeño is actually one of our recommended substitutes for Serrano. Serrano Pepper is about 3.3x hotter than jalapeño, so jalapeño will be significantly milder. You'd need to use more jalapeño, but the flavor profile may not match well.
How do I adjust the heat level when substituting?
Start with less than you think you need—you can always add more heat, but you can't take it away! If your substitute is milder, add more gradually and taste as you go. If it's hotter, start with half the amount and build up. Remember that cooking method also affects heat: boiling reduces spice, while frying intensifies it.
Will the flavor be the same?
No substitute is ever a perfect 1-for-1 match in flavor. The Jalapeño is the closest you'll get. Others may fundamentally change the flavor of your dish—but often in a delicious way! Consider whether you're substituting for heat, flavor, or both.
Can I use Serrano powder instead of fresh Serrano?
Yes, but the flavor will be different. As a general rule, ¼ teaspoon of dried pepper powder is roughly equivalent to one fresh pepper. However, you'll miss the fresh, crisp texture and bright flavor. Powder works best in spice rubs, soups, and slow-cooked dishes where texture isn't critical.