Whether you’re a culinary expert or you’re just starting your journey into home cooking, paprika deserves a spot on your spice rack. Paprika is made by grinding dried peppers and, depending on the type of pepper used, it can add subtly sweet, smoky or spicy notes to your dishes. 

It’s a staple seasoning because it’s so versatile in the kitchen, showing up in anything from classic devilled eggs to fancy fusion tacos. Watch the video below to learn all about paprika, then read on for 8 easy recipes with paprika.

Recipes That Use Paprika

Easy Shakshuka

Whether you need a flavorful brunch main or you’re craving a breakfast-inspired dinner, give this spicy egg skillet a try. The easy homemade tomato sauce is loaded with flavor, leaning on paprika, marjoram and fennel seed for fiery and earthy notes. And, as a one-pot dish needing just 15 minutes of active prep time, it’s ideal for weeknight dinner. 

Classic Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a perennial crowd-pleaser, and they just wouldn’t be the same without paprika. Just a dusting of paprika adds subtly sweet and pepper notes, complementing the creamy yolks and tender egg whites. This is one recipe where switching up the paprika changes the flavor significantly: Try smoky paprika for BBQ-inspired flavor, or hot paprika for a pleasant kick. 

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Comfort food doesn’t get any easier, or more delicious, than this slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Just dump the ingredients into your slow cooker, add the homemade spice mix — a zesty blend that includes paprika, chili powder and additional warming spices — and let your slow cooker do all the work. Top with crushed tortilla chips to bring the flavor over the top.

Beef Paprikash

Paprika is a staple in Hungarian cooking, and this beef stew is possibly the tastiest way to showcase its flavor. The bold, smoky notes in paprika play perfectly off hearty beef, while tomato paste, onions and bell peppers add plenty of umami. Beef paprikash is traditionally over egg notes, but it’s also delicious on rice or polenta. 

Classic Chicken Paprika

Chicken paprikash is a favorite in Hungary, too. And this recipe offers an easy-to-make twist on a classic. It’s simple: sear the seasoned chicken in a skillet, then add tomatoes and paprika to allow the flavors to meld. This is the type of recipe that tastes even better the next day, so consider making a double batch for leftovers. 

Spanish Chicken

Paprika and chicken are a match made in heaven, so give this one-skillet meal a try, too. Combining paprika with thyme adds a Spanish-inspired flavor profile to this dish, while tomatoes, peppers and onion add plenty of texture. As a bonus, this dish comes together in just 35 minutes for easy weeknight dining. 

Homestyle Pork Chops

The easiest way to make any meat tastier? Add paprika and thyme. These pork chops prove that mains don’t have to be complex to be delicious, and a light coating of seasoning lets the pork’s natural sweetness shine through. Serve with your favorite sauteed veggies for a complete meal. 

Easy Pork Tenderloin

This easy pork tenderloin recipe is your go-to for a quick, flavorful dinner. Seasoned with a savory-sweet spice rub and roasted with apples and onions, it’s a one-pan meal ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this tender, juicy pork delivers big flavor with minimal effort, it is sure to be a family favorite you’ll make again and again!