What's the Best Substitute for Pasta Water?
Whether you're out of Pasta Water or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Starchy water left over from cooking pasta, used to thicken sauces and add flavor to pasta dishes 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 pasta water are chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water with cornstarch depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Pasta Water
Chicken Broth
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta sauces
- soups
- stews
- cooking
Description
Flavorful liquid that adds depth to pasta dishes
Adds more flavor than pasta water. May need to reduce to concentrate.
Vegetable Broth
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- vegetarian pasta
- soups
- stews
- cooking
Description
Vegetarian alternative with similar liquid properties
Good for vegetarian dishes. May need to reduce to concentrate.
Water + Cornstarch
Ratio
1:1 with 1 tsp cornstarch per cup water
Best For
- pasta sauces
- thickening
- cooking
- emergency substitution
Description
Water thickened with cornstarch to mimic pasta water's starchiness
Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to hot liquid. Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
White Wine
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta sauces
- cooking
- marinades
- sauces
Description
Alcoholic liquid that adds flavor and acidity to pasta dishes
Adds acidity and flavor. May need to reduce to concentrate.
Milk + Cornstarch
Ratio
1:1 with 1 tsp cornstarch per cup milk
Best For
- creamy pasta sauces
- Alfredo sauce
- mac and cheese
- cooking
Description
Milk thickened with cornstarch for creamy pasta sauces
Mix cornstarch with cold milk before adding to hot liquid. Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
Stock + Cornstarch
Ratio
1:1 with 1 tsp cornstarch per cup stock
Best For
- pasta sauces
- soups
- stews
- cooking
Description
Any type of stock thickened with cornstarch
Use any type of stock. Mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding to hot liquid.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Pasta Water, 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
Pasta water is perfect 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
Perfect for making one-pot pasta dishes
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications