The 5 Best Red Pepper Flakes
Red pepper flakes are made from crushed red pepper – not to be confused with the ground or crushed variety.
Instead, you have bigger chunks of the wonderful spice that you can liberally sprinkle on any dish to give it that distinctive kick of heat that we all know and love.
Whatever the case, it never hurts to have some on hand at all times. After all, a kitchen without red pepper flakes is a waste.
But what are the best red pepper flakes? The best red pepper flakes have a full flavor and the right amount of heat for your taste. Organic and kosher-certified flakes are often ideal to ensure quality. Different pepper types will affect the flavor of your flakes; choose them according to taste.
Red pepper flakes are strikingly versatile as a spice. They can be used for a wide array of recipes and dishes. So be sure to check out our recommendations below so you can keep the spice rack fully stocked with only the best.
We have listed down 5 of the best red pepper flakes on the market today. Check them out!
The 5 Best Red Pepper Flakes
If you want to step up your seasoning game with a bit of spice, look no further. We’ve done our research and found the best red pepper flakes out there:
| Rank | Product | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | McCormick Crushed Red Pepper | 13 oz |
| 2. | Happy Belly Crushed Red Pepper | 2 oz |
| 3. | Kirkland Signature Crushed Red Pepper | 10 oz |
| 4. | Simply Organic Crushed Red Pepper | 1.59 oz |
| 5. | Magic Plant Crushed Ground Ghost Peppers | 0.81 oz |
But we’ve got more information on each of these spicy bad boys, so keep reading to learn all about the best red pepper flakes out there!
1. McCormick Crushed Red Pepper
First, we have the McCormick Crushed Red Pepper. These pepper flakes have a distinct flavor profile that we simply adore.
It has hints of fruitiness that is perfectly mixed with the unmistakable aroma of chili peppers. More importantly, it never skimps on the heat.
One of the things that stood out to us was the consistency of the heat. A lot of it has to do with the process that McCormick employs. Starting with the ripest peppers, they are harvested, crushed, and processed.
Then, to ensure the balance of flavor and heat, they ensure that there is also a balance between the seeds and the pods.
Needless to say, we simply loved it for soups, stews, and casseroles. These red pepper flakes are also perfect for barbeque spice rubs.
2. Happy Belly Crushed Red Pepper
Next, we have the Happy Belly Crushed Red Pepper. This is another fiery recommendation that you must simply try. These red pepper flakes have a noticeably pungent aroma.
For those who know their spices, you will know that this a good thing as it will undoubtedly cross over to taste.
In terms of flavor, we found this to be incredibly consistent with the right amount of heat to make it stand out. It also has subtle hints of fruity tastes and the right amount of acidity without overwhelming.
That said, these red pepper flakes would best for pizzas, pasta, and salads. Although, it would also work well with barbecue and meat marinades. Make sure to check these flakes out.
3. Kirkland Signature Crushed Red Pepper
Next, we have the Kirkland Signature Crushed Red Pepper, 10 oz. One quick look at these red pepper flakes should tell you that they mean business.
Sporting its characteristic and intimidating reddish hue, you can quickly tell that these peppers are not to be taken lightly.
Needless to say, to judge food solely by its appearance would be ill-advised. Luckily, these crushed red peppers from Kirkland also pass the taste test with flying colors.
Needless to say, we found them to be incredibly hot, as all peppers should be. They also pack loads of flavor that any serious home cook will surely appreciate.
Of course, if there is one thing that stood out to us, then it simply has to be the freshness of the peppers themselves. This is somewhat a surprise on our part, albeit a welcome and refreshing one.
That said, you will be doing yourself a great favor by putting these red pepper flakes on your favorite recipes.
4. Simply Organic Crushed Red Pepper
Next, we have the Simply Organic Crushed Red Pepper. Made from Capsicum annuum red peppers, these organic and kosher certified pepper flakes can trace their origins to China.
Not only are they incredibly flavorful, but they are also ethically produced and sourced.
Needless to say, one of the things that stood out to us was the potency of the red pepper’s flavor. It has lost none of the earthy flavor profile that is often sacrificed during the production process.
Moreover, you will notice that the seeds have been kept intact – effectively giving you the distinctive heat and flavor that we all want from our pepper flakes.
5. Magic Plant Crushed Ground Ghost Peppers (1,000,000 SHU)
Finally, we have the Magic Plant Crushed Ground Ghost Peppers, which rates at a 1,000,000 SHU. (That’s ultra-ultra-hot in Scoville Heat Units.)
As its name suggests, these red pepper flakes are not for the faint of heart. After all, ghost peppers are one of the hottest peppers in the world. These flakes don’t shy away from a bite.
Only get these if you want some serious heat on your recipe. In terms of flavor, they are incredibly smoky and rich. So, if that is up your alley, then be sure to get these pepper flakes.
Up Next: 5 Best Garlic Salts You Can Buy
DO i HAVE TO USE LESS OF THE CRUSHED RED PEPPER COMPARED TO THE REG. RED PEPPER FLAKES?