What's the Best Substitute for Cubanelle Pepper?
Whether you're out of Cubanelle Pepper or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Mild, sweet Italian frying pepper with thin skin and elongated shape, perfect for sautéing and stuffing In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for Cubanelle peppers are banana peppers, Italian frying peppers, or bell peppers depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Cubanelle Pepper
Banana Peppers
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sautéing
- stir-fries
- stuffed peppers
- pickling
Description
Mild, sweet pepper with similar shape and flavor profile
Very similar flavor and texture. Perfect substitute for most applications.
Italian Frying Peppers
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sautéing
- stir-fries
- stuffed peppers
- Italian dishes
Description
Generic term for mild, sweet peppers used in Italian cooking
May include various mild pepper varieties. Very similar to Cubanelle.
Bell Peppers
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- stuffed peppers
- sautéing
- stir-fries
- roasting
Description
Sweet, mild peppers with thicker skin but similar flavor
Thicker skin and different shape, but similar sweet flavor. May need longer cooking.
Anaheim Peppers
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sautéing
- stir-fries
- stuffed peppers
- roasting
Description
Mild, long peppers with similar shape and mild heat
Slightly more heat than Cubanelle but still mild. Good substitute for cooking.
Poblano Peppers
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- stuffed peppers
- roasting
- sautéing
- Mexican dishes
Description
Mild Mexican peppers with similar size and shape
Slightly more heat than Cubanelle but still mild. Good for stuffing applications.
Sweet Italian Peppers
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sautéing
- stir-fries
- stuffed peppers
- Italian cooking
Description
Mild, sweet peppers commonly found in Italian markets
Very similar to Cubanelle. May be the same pepper with different regional name.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Cubanelle Pepper, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Cubanelle peppers are perfect for sautéing and stir-frying
Great for stuffing with meat, rice, or cheese mixtures
Thin skin means they cook quickly and don't need peeling
Cubanelle peppers are mild and sweet, perfect for sensitive palates
Store in the refrigerator for up to a week
Wash and remove seeds before using
Cubanelle peppers pair well with Italian herbs and garlic
Perfect for making pepper and onion sandwiches
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications