Life in my kitchen is always crazy! With cooking being part of my full time job, there is constantly something being made at all hours of the day. With that being said, it is even more important to me to make sure that the things I have in my kitchen do not add to the chaos and that I only have what I need to work with, nothing more.
This took time to catch onto, for sure. 10 years ago I owned every gadget and kitchen item in excess, until we moved into our current home 7 years ago and realized very quickly between moves how little I actually used on a day to day basis. Yes, even as I photograph food and recipe develop, there was only a true need for about 50% of what I owned, if that.
With that being said, I thought it would be extremely helpful for me to show you all the kitchen essentials that I will be bringing into our new kitchen. It is a clean slate to refill, and to continue to do it in a minimalistic approach.
First and foremost, you know your girl loves a good cutting board. I use it for obvious reasons, but also use it constantly to serve our meals on! Home Goods is a fantastic place to find quality wood cutting boards for next to nothing!
Gadgets + Utensils
When it comes to my utensil drawer, less is more! Which sometimes drives visitors crazy when there are more than one cooking in the kitchen. But, I have found after years of recipe development that you only need a one of each item, and then once it wears down – replace it. No need for 8 wooden spoons, or 16 knives that you’ll never use!
Side note: this medium oxo cookie scoop is the tits. I use it for cookies, of course, but for meatballs and when I make muffins. I use it ALL the time.
Olive wood spoon Olive wood Spatula Cookie Scoop Vegetable Peeler Microplane Whisk Silicone Spatulas Tongs Turner
Cookware + Bakeware
I always keep two of everything you see here in my cupboard. Two Large 12×18 baking sheets, 2 9×13 baking sheets, 2 cake pans, two muffin tins (mini + regular) etc… The mini muffin tins are great for egg bites, mini pancakes and so much more.
Cake Pan Bread Pan Rectangle 9X13 Baking Sheet Mini Muffin Tin Muffin Tin Cooling Racks
Baking
Believe it or not, I have only ever used a handheld mixer in my kitchen. That may change with the new renovation because I am longing for a countertop piece, but I use this hand mixer for everything while baking. I love a good set of stainless steel bowls, they stand the test of time and you can use them for everything in your kitchen (salads/leftovers/for baking)
Measuring spoons Kitchen Mixer Liquid Measuring Cup Stainless Mixing Bowls Measuring Cups
Tried and True …
I do not like to buy pots and pans as a set, there are always ones I never use and go to waste! I like to just order pieces separately, the ones I will only use the most! With that said, GreenPan has been a household staple for over 8 years. Did you know many pots and pans if overheated can release toxic fumes? EEK! Not GreenPan! They cook evenly, and the nonstick is incredible! I always have one lasagna dish on hand that I take straight from oven to table – the price on this World Market one you just cannot beat!
And you’ve heard me talk about this Lodge dutch oven for YEARS on this blog. Until 2020, they were always in stock – that is until a few big time bloggers shouted them out and they have been flying off of the shelves and selling out. You cannot beat the price, I buy one every few years – forget the Le-Cru-whatever (haha) keep the money in your pocket and buy this one for less than $70, it is hands down my favorite kitchen piece.
Lasagna Dish GreenPan Pots + Pans Lodge Dutch Oven
I love a good grill pan for our midwest colder months. Also, a deep saute pan is fantastic for pastas!
If you have the space, I LOVE these…
While these are not necessary, they are definitely handy small appliances to have on hand. The ninja food processor/blender I use constantly for sauces, pestos and smoothies. Cusinart Air Popper for popcorn makes the best popcorn! Although, it may get returned after falling in love with Safe + Fairs new Sea Salt popcorn! I am addicted!! I highly recommend a slow cooker, or an instant pot these days – everybody is doing it. Lastly, a waffle maker, if you are into making big batches to freeze – check out my Belgium waffle recipe. If you want to go balls to the wall, I would add a panini press. Nothing beats a toasty sandwich with soup.
Ninja Blender + Food Processor Popcorn Maker Crockpot Waffle Maker
Not pictured…
The obvious missing items I need to shop for still –
- I own a wine opener, and can opener of course
- A new knife – I only keep a serrated knife for bread and a knife for cutting. My Walmart knife lasted me 7 years (believe it.) Less than $25 – I am on the hunt for another. The key is just to get them sharpened, no need for 12 knives in the kitchen
- Collander – duh. Gotta drain that pasta, wash the produce
- Ladel for soup, nothing fancy
Of course kitchen essentials will look different for every home. Depending on what you cook most frequently. These are the tools that help me cook everyday, multiple meals a day for my crew!
I may have missed an item or two, but I’ll be sure to add and keep you posted as we restock the kitchen over the next few months!