What To Use Instead Of Cooking Spray For Baking

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A lot of us avoid purchasing regular cooking spray for money, environmental or health reasons. Luckily, you have options when looking for a substitute for cooking spray.

Nonstick cooking spray has been a household staple since the 1960s. When it came out, it provided a fantastic alternative to high-fat butter and cooking oil. It keeps food from sticking while keeping the calories low, which sounds like a win-win, right?

Unfortunately, most store-bought cooking spray contains more than just oil. The oil is thinned out with water, so you'll also find soy lecithin (an emulsifier), dimethyl silicone (anti-foaming agent) and food-grade propellant to get it out of the can, like butane or propane. If you'd rather avoid these added ingredients, use a substitute for cooking spray instead. These cooking spray alternatives work for everything from greasing a pan for a homemade cake to lubricating measuring cups to help sticky ingredients like honey slide right out.

Use Butter or Lard

Butter and lard are great cooking spray alternatives. They're soft enough to spread into loaf pans and muffin tins with your fingers. You don't have to get your hands messy to use these products, either. Use a piece of parchment paper or paper towel to help grease.

Keep in mind that both butter and lard are more strongly flavored than the neutral oils found in cooking spray. Butter's flavor makes a great addition to baked goods, while lard is best when roasting meats and vegetables.

Regular Oil

Cooking spray is basically pressurized, watered-down oil, so feel free to use your favorite healthy high-temperature cooking oil instead. Our favorite is pure olive oil, but you can also use a neutral-flavored oil like safflower oil or avocado oil. If you're trying to limit the amount of added fat to a recipe, try pouring the oil onto a paper towel and using it to rub a thin layer of oil onto the pan.

Give Flour a Try

Have you ever seen a recipe that calls for dusting a greased pan with flour? That's because flour is a fantastic way to prevent things like bundt cakes or muffins from sticking to a baking dish. To create a spreadable flour mixture that magically keeps food from sticking, blend equal parts all-purpose flour, vegetable oil and vegetable shortening. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and spread it onto your pan using a silicone basting brush($7).

Buy a Refillable Spray Bottle

If you still want the ability to spray instead of spread, try making your own substitute for cooking spray. Pick up a refillable spray bottle—like this one from Amazon($12)—and fill it with your favorite cooking oil. It works as a cooking spray alternative for any recipe that calls for the store-bought stuff. You can also use it to lightly spritz salads with oil instead of tossing them in heavy dressings.

Get Cookin'

Asparagus Beef Teriyaki

This simple, savory creation is made in the time it takes to steam a pot of rice. About 20 minutes and—boom!—you're dishing dinner. —Kari Shifflett, Lake Mills, Iowa

Shrimp Orzo with Feta

Tender, hearty and flavorful, this recipe is one of my favorites! Garlic and a splash of lemon add to the fresh taste and heart-healthy benefits of shrimp. —Sarah Hummel, Moon Township, Pennsylvania

Chicken Thighs with Shallots & Spinach

What could be better than an entree that comes with its own creamy vegetable side? This healthy supper goes together in no time flat and makes an eye-catching presentation. —Genna Johannes, Wrightstown, Wisconsin

Pepper Steak with Potatoes

I added sliced red potatoes to one of my favorite recipes for Asian-style pepper steak. Now this hearty supper satisfies everyone at home, including hungry guys with big appetites. —Kristine Marra, Clifton Park, New York

Mahi Mahi & Veggie Skillet

Cooking mahi mahi with a mix of vegetables may seem complex, but I developed this skillet recipe to bring out the wow factor without the hassle and fuss. —Solomon Wang, Arlington, Texas

Italian Sausage Veggie Skillet

We love Italian sausage sandwiches, but because the bread isn't diet-friendly for me, I created this recipe to satisfy my craving. If you like some heat, use hot peppers in place of the sweet peppers. —Tina Howells, Salem, Ohio

Spicy Peanut Chicken & Noodles

This simple spicy peanut noodles recipe tastes like it took hours to make. Everybody says it has the perfect levels of heat and spice. —Sharon Collison, Newark, Delaware

Curried Chicken Skillet

This protein-packed skillet dish is loaded with bright flavor. A little curry and fresh ginger make the veggies, chicken and quinoa pop. —Ruth Hartunian-Alumbaugh, Willimantic, Connecticut

Easy Meatball Stroganoff

This recipe has fed not only my own family, but many neighborhood kids! They come running when I make this supper. It's one of those things you throw together after work on a busy day because you know it works. —Julie May, Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Meat Lover's Pizza Rice Skillet

My son named this "pizza rice" after I threw together a quick dinner from what I had in the fridge and pantry. Add any other pizza topping ingredients you desire. I often add black olive slices or mushrooms. Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

Chicken & Goat Cheese Skillet

My husband was completely bowled over by this on-a-whim goat cheese and chicken skillet meal. I can't wait to make it again very soon! —Ericka Barber, Eureka, California

Tangy Turkey Tostadas

I'm a health fitness specialist and personal trainer, so I know how important it is to make smart food choices to fuel my day. These fast and filling tostadas are packed with lean protein, fiber and a good dose of veggies. Have them any night of the week. —Julie Huntington, Memphis, Tennessee

Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet

The spicy sausage in this quick skillet dish gives it a kick, and the sliced apples are a pleasant, tart surprise. —Jamie Jones, Madison, Georgia

Chicken Rice Skillet

Pleasant seasonings and plenty of vegetables highlight this traditional chicken and rice pairing. Leftovers are great reheated in the microwave. —Jan Balata, Kilkenny, Minnesota

Orange Beef Lettuce Wraps

This is a lighter version of a restaurant favorite. I also recommend trying these wraps with ground chicken or turkey.—Robin Haas, Cranston, Rhode Island

Chicken Parmesan Burgers

A restaurant-quality burger that's topped with marinara and loaded with cheese—what's not to love? Fresh basil adds even more flavor. —Brooke Petras, Alpine, California

Skillet Shepherd's Pie

This is the best shepherd's pie recipe I've ever tasted. It's very quick to make, and I usually have most—if not all—of the ingredients already on hand. —Tirzah Sandt, San Diego, California

Barbecue Pork and Penne Skillet

I'm the proud mother of wonderful and active children. Simple, delicious and quick meals like this BBQ pork skillet are perfect for us to enjoy together after school activities, especially if I have leftover pulled pork. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisiana

Blue Cheese Pork Medallions

This comforting pork dish feels fancy, thanks to the creamy sauce kicked up a notch by blue cheese. Guests go crazy over it, and would never guess how quickly it all comes together. —Lynne German, Woodland Hills, CA

Feta Shrimp Skillet

My husband and I tried a dish similar to this on our honeymoon in Greece. I re-created the flavors in this recipe when we got home. When I make it now, it brings back wonderful memories. —Sonali Ruder, New York, New York

Jiffy Ground Pork Skillet

Some people call it dinner hour, but many of us call it rush hour. Slow down the pace with this so-simple mouthwatering ground pork meal. The only thing you'll have left over is time to share with your family at the table. —Brigitte Schaller, Flemington, Missouri

Tequila Lime Shrimp Zoodles

This tangy shrimp is a smart way to cut carbs without sacrificing flavor. If you don't have a spiralizer, use thinly julienned zucchini to get a similar effect. —Brigette Schroeder, Yorkville, Illinois

Saucy Pork Chop Skillet

Skillet pork chops make easy comfort food. We have them with a salad and fruit. If you've got fresh green beans or steamed broccoli, go for it. —Donna Roberts, Manhattan, Kansas

Beefy Tortellini Skillet

This tortellini dish is a one-skillet-wonder the family craves. From browning beef to cooking the pasta and melting the cheese, everything happens in one pan. You can add basil or chives for a touch of freshness. —Juli Meyers, Hinesville, Georgia

Spicy Veggie Pasta Bake

My dad cooked with cast-iron skillets, so when I do, I remember his amazing culinary skills. I keep the tradition going with my veggie pasta. —Sonya Goergen, Moorhead, Minnesota

Turkey Biscuit Skillet

My mother always made this while I was growing up. Now I make it for my husband and kids. I cut the biscuits into smaller pieces so they will brown nicely on top. I also sometimes add mushrooms to this recipe because my family likes them so much. —Keri Boffeli, Monticello, Iowa

Greek Beef Pitas

A local fast-food pita restaurant inspired me to make my own Greek-style sandwiches at home. Add olives if you'd like. —Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana

Beef Skillet Supper

Sometimes I'll make extra of this comforting, noodle-y supper to guarantee leftovers. It's a great take-along dish for work or school. Trim calories from the entree by substituting ground turkey for the beef and low-fat cheese for the full-fat cheddar. —Tabitha Allen, Cypress, Texas

Sausage-Tomato Coconut Curry

Made in one pan, this easy and tasty recipe can be altered to fit vegetarian diets. —Jessie Apfe, Berkeley, California

Skillet Sausage Stuffing

To make this sausage stuffing, I dressed up a package of stuffing mix with pork sausage, mushrooms, celery and onion. It impressed my in-laws at a family gathering and has since become a popular side dish with my husband and children. —Jennifer Lynn Cullen, Taylor, Michigan

Creamy Skillet Noodles with Peas

I've made this creamy noodle side for years. Since kids and adults go for it, I keep the ingredients on hand at all times. —Anita Groff, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania

Easy Beef Taco Skillet

Busy day? Save time and money with this stovetop supper the whole family will love. It calls for handy convenience products, so it can be on the table in minutes. —Kelly Roder, Fairfax, Virginia

Ginger-Curry Chicken Tacos

I love tacos (who doesn't?), but I wanted to put my own unique twist on them by incorporating some Indian flavors. These ginger-curry versions hit the spot! —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California

Chicken Sausage & Gnocchi Skillet

I had a bunch of fresh veggies and combined them with sausage, gnocchi and goat cheese when I needed a quick dinner. Mix and match your own ingredients for unique results. —Dahlia Abrams, Detroit, Michigan

Weeknight Pasta Squiggles

This zesty pasta dish is ideal for busy weeknights. It's low on ingredients and easy to prep, and it tastes so comforting when the weather turns cool. A salad on the side makes this healthy pasta recipe a meal. —Stacey Brown, Spring, Texas

Mediterranean Turkey Skillet

I've always heard that it's important to eat a rainbow of colors to get all of the nutrients we need. Thanks to my garden-grown veggies, this dish certainly fits the bill. —Nicole Ehlert, Burlington, Wisconsin

Israeli Couscous & Chicken Sausage Skillet

Our comfort food is a big plate of sausage with couscous. Add some onion, celery, a little heat and a sprinkle of feta. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida

Skier's Skillet

With its great combination of flavors and ease of preparation, this is one of my favorite dishes to make when we have overnight guests. Serve it with scrambled eggs for a complete meal...with little fuss! —Lynn Cronk, Indianapolis, Indiana

Cheeseburger Skillet Dinner

This skillet dinner is doubly quick. The leftovers-if there are any-can be reheated to make a second meal as tasty as the first. —Karen Grimes, Stephens City, Virginia

Skillet Pork Chops with Apples & Onion

Simple recipes that land on the table fast are lifesavers. I serve skillet pork chops with veggies and, when my husband lobbies, cornbread stuffing. —Tracey Karst, Ponderay, Idaho

Skillet Ham & Rice

Ham, rice and mushrooms make a tasty combination in this homey stovetop dish. It goes from start to finish in just 25 minutes. —Susan Zivec, Regina, Saskatchewan

Chicken Veggie Skillet

I invented this chicken and veggie dish to use up extra mushrooms and asparagus. My husband suggested I write it down because it's a keeper. —Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas

Rosemary Pork Medallions with Peas

It's nice to have a quick meal to fix after coming home from work. It's simple to prepare and doesn't use a lot of ingredients, so it's great for beginner cooks. —Laura McAllister, Morganton, North Carolina

Cheesy Onion Chicken Skillet

My zesty chicken with peppers and onions is so versatile, it works when you serve it over rice, potatoes, noodles, even a hoagie bun. —Kim Johnson, Sibley, Iowa

Tortellini with Tomato Spinach Cream Sauce

I enjoy all things pasta, and tortellini is my favorite. The flavor of this dish is amazing. Even my husband, who hates pasta of any kind, loves it! It's a great recipe for non-spinach fans to try, too. —Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia

Skillet Steak Supper

With all the ingredients cooked in one skillet, this steak dish couldn't be quicker to prepare—or to clean up! But the wine and mushroom sauce makes it seem special. —Sandra Fisher, Missoula, Montana

Skillet Nachos

My mom gave me a fundraiser cookbook, and this is the recipe I've used most. My whole family is on board. For toppings, think sour cream, tomatoes, jalapeno and red onion. —Judy Hughes, Waverly, Kansas

Maple Sausage Skillet

Maple syrup adds sweetness to this yummy stir-fry. I sometimes add a little broccoli, too, for a change of pace. Add a green salad and a crusty loaf of bread for a complete meal in minutes. —Dottie Tarlton, Malvern, Arkansas

Peppered Sole

My daughter loves this recipe—it's the only way she'll eat fish. To top it off, it's good for her! —Jeannette Baye, Agassiz, British Columbia

Sausage and Vegetable Skillet

This hearty stovetop entree has been a family favorite for years. The variety of vegetables makes this dish attractive. Cooking time is minimal. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana

Cheese & Mushroom Skillet Pizza

This Italian skillet toss is an awesome way to use up extra spaghetti sauce at the end of the week. It fits right in on Friday pizza night. —Clare Butler, Little Elm, Texas

Chicken Artichoke Skillet

My fast chicken entree featuring artichokes and olives has real Greek flair. Seasoned with lemon juice and oregano, the stovetop chicken turns out moist and tender. —Carol Latimore, Arvada, Colorado

Sausage & Vegetable Skillet Dinner

I threw this sausage recipe together one night to use up produce before going out of town. Who knew it was going to be such a hit! Now it's a recipe I turn to whenever time is tight. —Elizabeth Kelley, Chicago, Illinois

School-Night Sausage Stroganoff

I found this recipe in an old church cookbook about 25 years ago and tweaked it to fit my family's tastes. It's a savory, creamy dish that's quick to fix on a busy school night. —Kristine Chayes, Smithtown, New York

Skillet BBQ Beef Potpie

Beef potpie is a classic comfort food, but who's got time to see it through? My crowd-pleaser is not only speedy but an excellent way to use leftover stuffing. —Priscilla Yee, Concord, California

Skewerless Stovetop Kabobs

My family loves this quick and easy recipe so much, we never have any leftovers. It's also great on the grill. —Jennifer Mitchell, Altoona, Pennsylvania

Skillet Chicken with Barbecue Onion

Barbecue chicken is a sure bet with guests, but it's also messy at times. My stovetop BBQ chicken recipe lets you savor that flavor without a pile of napkins. —Evelyn Cleare, Miami, Florida

Southwest Skillet Chops

This is one of my go-to meals because I usually have the ingredients to make these pork chops in my kitchen. I can't get enough of the corn relish. —Linda Cifuentes, Mahomet, Illinois

Zucchini Egg Skillet

My neighbor shared more zucchini from his garden than I knew what to do with. He loved this recipe—it's great for brunch or a special breakfast. —Darcy Kennedy, Hendersonvlle, North Carolina

One-Skillet Lasagna

This is hands-down one of the best skillet lasagna recipes our testing panel has ever tasted. With classic flavors and cheesy layers, it's definitely kid-friendly. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Skillet Cassoulet

This dish is chock-full of flavor, and the little spice from the kielbasa makes a nice hearty combo for a flavorful meal-in-one. —Barbara Brittain, Santee, California

Hearty Sausage and Rice Skillet

At the end of the day, who wants a stack of dishes to wash? That's why we love this entree: It cooks in one skillet and everyone cleans their plates! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Mediterranean Turkey Skillet

I've always heard that it's important to eat a rainbow of colors to get all of the nutrients we need. Thanks to my garden-grown veggies, this dish certainly fits the bill. —Nicole Ehlert, Burlington, Wisconsin

Beef & Pepper Skillet

I love Mexican-inspired food. I also enjoy experimenting with recipes like this one and making them healthier—and downright good! —Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia

Confetti Kielbasa Skillet

Here's one of my husband's favorite dishes. When it's in season, substitute fresh corn for frozen. Add a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. —Sheila Gomez, Shawnee, Kansas

Cran-Apple Turkey Skillet

You need only one skillet to pull off this delicious meal. Talk about simple! —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri

Saucy Skillet Lasagna

Thanks to no-cook noodles, this skillet lasagna makes a fresh, filling, flavorful and fast entree for any Italian meal. —Meghan Crihfield, Ripley, West Virginia

Sausage & Pepper Pierogi Skillet

A package of pierogi lets me serve this skillet meal in a hurry. The whole family goes for it. —Molly Flessner, Bloomington, Illinois

Smoky Sausage & Pepper Skillet

My family loves this combination of sausage, green peppers and onions and asks for it for birthdays. It's that awesome. —Celinda Kulp, Hummelstown, Pennsylvania

Skillet Chicken Fajitas

Fresh flavor with a flair describes this quick and easy recipe. Fajitas are just right for hot summer evenings when you want to serve something fun and tasty, yet keep cooking to a minimum. Try topping them with sour cream, guacamole or both. —Lindsay St. John, Plainfield, Indiana

What To Use Instead Of Cooking Spray For Baking

Source: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/cooking-spray-alternative/#:~:text=Use%20Butter%20or%20Lard,paper%20towel%20to%20help%20grease.

Posted by: lockepabod1973.blogspot.com

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