Pasta water substitutes
Pasta water substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Chicken broth
Same amount as the pasta water
Flavorful liquid that adds depth to pasta dishes.
The best substitutes for pasta water are chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water with cornstarch depending on the recipe.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- pasta sauces
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of pasta water | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicken brothpasta sauces | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Vegetable brothvegetarian pasta | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Water + cornstarchpasta sauces | Same amountWith 1 tsp cornstarch per cup waterTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | White winepasta sauces | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Milk + cornstarchcreamy pasta sauces | Same amountWith 1 tsp cornstarch per cup milkYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Stock + cornstarchpasta sauces | Same amountWith 1 tsp cornstarch per cup stockTweak it | Tweak it |
Chicken broth
different taste, similar texture
Flavorful liquid that adds depth to pasta dishes.
- Best for
- pasta sauces, soups, stews, cooking
Adds more flavor than pasta water. May need to reduce to concentrate.
Vegetable broth
different taste, similar texture
Vegetarian alternative with similar liquid properties.
- Best for
- vegetarian pasta, soups, stews, cooking
Good for vegetarian dishes. May need to reduce to concentrate.
Water + cornstarch
different taste, similar texture
Water thickened with cornstarch to mimic pasta water's starchiness.
- Best for
- pasta sauces, thickening, cooking, emergency substitution
Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to hot liquid. Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
White wine
different taste, similar texture
Alcoholic liquid that adds flavor and acidity to pasta dishes.
- Best for
- pasta sauces, cooking, marinades, sauces
Adds acidity and flavor. May need to reduce to concentrate.
Milk + cornstarch
different taste and texture
Milk thickened with cornstarch for creamy pasta sauces.
- Best for
- creamy pasta sauces, Alfredo sauce, mac and cheese, cooking
Mix cornstarch with cold milk before adding to hot liquid. Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
Stock + cornstarch
different taste, similar texture
Any type of stock thickened with cornstarch.
- Best for
- pasta sauces, soups, stews, cooking
Use any type of stock. Mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding to hot liquid.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between pasta water and regular water?
Pasta water contains starch from the pasta and salt from the cooking water, which helps thicken sauces and bind pasta and sauce together.
Can I use chicken broth instead of pasta water?
Yes, chicken broth works as a substitute, though it adds more flavor than pasta water. It's good for making pasta sauces and soups.
How do I make pasta water?
Cook pasta in salted water, then drain the pasta over a bowl to catch the starchy water. Use immediately while hot.
Can I use pasta water in risotto?
Yes, pasta water can be used in risotto to add starch and flavor. It's a good substitute for traditional risotto cooking liquid.
Tips for substituting pasta water
8 tips- Pasta water is good for making creamy pasta sauces
- Great for thickening sauces without adding extra fat
- Use in risotto to add starch and flavor
- Pasta water helps bind pasta and sauce together
- Save pasta water by draining pasta over a bowl
- Use pasta water immediately while it's still hot
- Pasta water adds salt and starch to dishes
- Good for making one-pot pasta dishes