Buying guide

Best starches for thickening sauces

Starches are not interchangeable in every sauce. This list ranks them by clarity, heat tolerance, texture, and pantry usefulness.

Pantry Sub may earn a commission when a merchant-approved affiliate link is configured. Product placement is based on recipe fit, substitution role, and reader trust, not affiliate availability.

Picks

8 total

No. 01

Amazon

Cornstarch

All-purpose thickening

The most practical first starch for gravy, stir-fry sauce, and pudding.

View merchant page

No. 02

Amazon

Arrowroot powder

Clear sauces

Useful for glossy sauces when a cloudier cornstarch look is not ideal.

View merchant page

No. 03

Amazon

Tapioca starch

Fruit fillings

Adds glossy body and elasticity to pies, sauces, and some gluten-free bakes.

View merchant page

No. 04

Amazon

Potato starch

High-thickening power

A strong starch for quick thickening and gluten-free frying coatings.

View merchant page

No. 05

King Arthur Baking

Instant ClearJel

Pie filling

A pie-friendly modified starch that keeps fillings sliceable.

View merchant page

No. 06

Amazon

Rice starch

Delicate texture

A mild option for smooth sauces and some gluten-free blends.

View merchant page

No. 07

Amazon

Kuzu starch

Traditional glossy thickening

Useful for cooks who want a clean, glossy thickener for gentle sauces.

View merchant page

No. 08

Amazon

Instant tapioca

Rustic fruit pies

A pantry-friendly option for fruit filling when perfectly smooth texture is less important.

View merchant page

Cook's guide

Cornstarch is the neutral default for quick sauces and stir-fry glazes.
Arrowroot can thin if boiled hard or held too long.
Tapioca starch gives glossy elasticity that is useful in fruit fillings but odd in some gravies.