There are times when our recipes call for a little something extra, and that’s where substitutes come in handy.
We’ve all been there, staring into our fridge or pantry, realizing we’re out of capicola. Fear not – we’re here to jazz up your dishes with the best alternatives.
It can be tricky picking the right substitute, so we’ve done the hard work for you. Here are seven awesome replacements that will keep your recipes tasty and fun. Let’s mix it up and get creative with our cooking!

7 Easy Substitutes for Capicola
While nothing can truly replace the unique flavor and texture of capicola, these substitutes will come pretty close in a pinch:
1 – Prosciutto
The first substitute up is prosciutto. It’s thin, salty, and a little sweet. We love it because it’s easy to find and super tasty.
Prosciutto has a delicate flavor. It’s less spicy than capicola but can add a similar savory note to our dishes. We recommend a 1:1 ratio for substitution.
For a great recipe, check out this link on best prosciutto substitutes. Use it in sandwiches, pizzas, or even just as a snack. Trust us, our taste buds are in for a treat.
2 – Pancetta
Next, let’s chat about pancetta. This Italian bacon is cured, not smoked, giving it a rich, fatty taste. Picture bacon but without the smoky kick. It’s saltier and has a deeper pork flavor, which is perfect for our recipes.
Pancetta is awesome for crispy bits in pasta or stuffing. Use it in a 1:1 ratio with capicola. It’s a winner for adding that savory punch.
For more options, check out this pancetta substitute guide.
3 – Salami
One of our favorite substitutes is salami. It’s spicy, robust, and full of flavor. Salami brings a slightly spicier kick than capicola, making it a great choice for those who enjoy bolder tastes.
We love adding salami to our sandwiches and pizzas. A 1:1 ratio works perfectly here. When frying it up, the edges get crispy, adding a wonderful texture. The depth of flavor really sets it apart. For more ideas, check out these salami substitutes that are just as delicious.
4 – Speck
Speck is an awesome alternative to capicola. It’s got a smoky, rich flavor that adds depth to any dish. We love its thin slices that are just bursting with taste.
Use speck when you need a touch of smokiness. It’s less fatty, giving a more refined bite. Perfect for pasta, salads, or sandwiches. A 1:1 substitute ratio works wonders for recipes.
Check out best sub for speck for more ideas. We love its versatility and how it elevates simple dishes.
5 – Mortadella
The silky texture of mortadella adds a refined touch. It’s got a mild, slightly sweet flavor that sets it apart. We love using it in cold sandwiches and antipasto platters.
Mortadella has a unique, delicate fat marbling. It allows it to melt in your mouth. A 1:1 substitute ratio with capicola works well. It’s less spicy but adds a creamy, rich taste.
For more alternatives, check out the best mortadella substitutes. It’s a tasty way to change up your recipes.
6 – Soppressata
Soppressata adds a bold, robust flavor that’s slightly spicy and savory. We love its hearty, rich taste that stands out in any dish.
A 1:1 ratio works well for substituting capicola. Soppressata’s firm texture and intense flavor make it ideal for sandwiches and charcuterie boards.
It’s less fatty but packs more spice, making it a great choice for those who like a kick. We often add it to pizzas for an extra burst of flavor.
7 – Pepperoni
The next substitute is pepperoni. It’s spicy, savory, and brings a zesty kick.
We love the bold flavor and meaty texture. It’s less fatty than capicola but still packs a punch. Use it in a 1:1 ratio for substitutes. Try pepperoni in pizzas, sandwiches, and snacks.
Looking for more info? Check out our pepperoni substitutes guide for more details. It’s versatile and adds a wonderful spicy touch to our favorite recipes. It really elevates simple dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, prosciutto offers a similar texture and saltiness, though it is less spicy than capicola.
Absolutely! Pancetta provides a nice balance of saltiness and flavor, though it lacks the spice of capicola.
Salami has a more robust and spiced flavor, making it a good substitute when you want a bolder taste.
Yes, speck is a smoked version of prosciutto with a similar texture and flavor profile to capicola, though it’s smokier.
Mortadella is milder and less spicy but can work as a substitute for those looking for a smoother texture in dishes.
Soppressata is more flavorful and spicier than capicola, making it a great alternative if you’re looking for a punch of heat.
Yes, pepperoni offers a similar spicy kick and works well as a substitute for capicola in pizza or sandwiches.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.