We’ve all been mid-cooking and realized the Pam spray is out. It’s that split second where you’re holding a pan and thinking, “What now?” Happened to us plenty of times, and guess what? It’s no big deal. There are so many simple swaps that do the job just as well.
One time, we reached for olive oil with a basting brush, and bam—problem solved. Another day, butter came in clutch, especially for eggs. These alternatives actually make you rethink why we rely so much on spray cans. Plus, they’re often sitting right in our pantry or fridge, ready to go.
We’re breaking down five super easy substitutes for Pam that are practical and worth trying. You might already have everything you need.
5 Quick Substitutes for Pam Cooking Spray
Here are five great substitutes for Pam cooking spray that you can use in a variety of recipes.
1 – Olive Oil Spray
Olive oil spray works as a practical stand-in for Pam. Use it 1:1 for greasing pans, prepping baking sheets, or lightly coating food. It’s easy to spray evenly and avoids sticking.
We’ve swapped it in for sautéing vegetables and roasting potatoes. It gives a nice, light coating without being heavy. Unlike Pam, olive oil spray is simple and has fewer additives.
It’s worth noting that olive oil has a lower smoke point than some sprays. Keep that in mind for high-heat cooking. If you’re curious about using olive oil in other ways, check out these olive oil substitutes.
2 – Butter or Margarine
Margarine can step in as a reliable stand-in for Pam. Use it 1:1 for greasing pans or baking. It melts quickly and spreads easily to prevent sticking.
We’ve rubbed it on baking dishes before pouring batter, and it worked just fine. It’s also good for frying or sautéing, adding a mild buttery flavor to dishes. Margarine tends to handle heat better than butter, making it a bit more versatile in some recipes.
Just keep in mind, it contains more water, which could slightly affect browning. If you’re curious about other ideas, these margarine substitutes are also worth a look.
3 – Coconut Oil Spray
Coconut oil spray works well as a Pam substitute. Use it 1:1 for greasing pans or coating baking sheets. It provides an even, non-stick surface.
We’ve used it for roasting veggies, and it left a subtle coconut hint. It’s solid at cooler temperatures but liquefies easily when warmed. This makes it ideal for sautéing or light frying.
It has a medium smoke point, so it’s not great for very high heat. That said, it’s versatile and adds a mild flavor boost in certain recipes. For more ideas, check out these coconut oil substitutes.
4 – Non-Stick Cooking Spray
In a pinch, any non-stick cooking spray will do as an alternative to Pam. No need to buy a specific brand; just grab what’s available.
Use it like you would Pam in 1:1 ratio for greasing pans or lightly coating food. Just keep in mind that non-stick sprays usually contain more additives and preservatives than other options.
So it might be worth trying one of the other alternatives listed here if you’re looking for a healthier option.
5 – Homemade Oil Spray
Last but not least, you can easily make your own oil spray at home. Combine any neutral-flavored oil (like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed) with water in a spray bottle and shake well to combine. Use it like you would Pam cooking spray.
You can also add a drop or two of your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor. Plus, it’s more cost-effective than constantly buying spray cans.
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.