Welcome to our guide on the Best Kitchen Essentials: Must-Have Items for Everyday Use. Whether you’re setting up a new kitchen or simply looking to refresh your current setup, this curated list highlights the essential tools and gadgets that every home cook needs. From versatile utensils to reliable appliances, these items are designed to make cooking and meal prep easier and more enjoyable. Explore our top picks and equip your kitchen with everything you need for daily culinary success.
This curated list of the Best Kitchen Essentials features tools that I personally use and recommend. My selections are based on my experience with various brands, evaluating product quality, reliability, and the trustworthiness of the companies behind them. Each item is chosen for its exceptional value and performance, ensuring that your kitchen is equipped with the best tools for everyday cooking and meal prep.
Who is this Kitchen Essentials List for?
If you are looking to buy Kitchen essentials online, this list will steer you in the right direction. This list is for you if you:
- Looking for great brands that are durable and last
- New Home or First Home
- First Apartment
- Air BNB Owner
Kitchen Essentials
I feel confident in recommending these brands to you based on my experience with the companies listed below.
Buck 931 Chef's Knife - Buck Knives OFFICIAL SITE
The American-made 931 chef's knives are built with stainless steel rivets combined with durable handles to make this knife not only functional but beautiful. The wide 8-inch blade is perfect for any of your chopping projects. Available in Rosewood DymaLux® (handwash only) and Slate PaperStone® (dishwasher safe) handles.
Buck knives are legendary in the hunting and fishing world. If you grew up hunting and fishing, chances are your dad or uncle had a buck knife. I love sharing brands that I grew up around and I feel safe and comfortable recommending them to my viewers because I have had a long history with that brand.
Buck Knife's kitchen cutlery is no different. They make reasonably priced knives for the common person, but they are exceptional quality that I look for in products I use.
Buck 13 Piece Kitchen Cutlery Set with Knife Block - Buck Knives OFFICIAL SITE
Buck's Cutlery Set includes the 8" Chef's knife, 8" Slicer, 2 3/4" and 4" paring knives, 4 7/8" spreader, Fork, and six steak knives. With corrosion-resistant 420HC stainless steel blades (spreader is 410HC) and durable handles, this set is a great addition to any kitchen. Available in Rosewood DymaLux® (hand wash only) and eco-friendly Slate PaperStone® (dishwasher safe). Includes a wood knife block.
Buck knives are legendary in the hunting and fishing world. If you grew up hunting and fishing, chances are your dad or uncle had a buck knife. I love sharing brands that I grew up around and I feel safe and comfortable recommending them to my viewers because I have had a long history with that brand.
Buck 933 Large Paring Kitchen Knife - Buck Knives OFFICIAL SITE
No kitchen set is complete without a paring knife. The sharp blade and comfortable handle make preparing your favorite fruits and veggies a breeze. Available in Rosewood DymaLux® (handwash only) and Slate PaperStone® (dishwasher safe) handles.
Buck knives are legendary in the hunting and fishing world. If you grew up hunting and fishing, chances are your dad or uncle had a buck knife. I love sharing brands that I grew up around and I feel safe and comfortable recommending them to my viewers because I have had a long history with that brand.
Victorinox Swiss Classic Paring Knife Set - Superior Kitchen Knives for Cutting Fruit, Vegetables & More - Cooking Knives for Kitchen Accessories - Multicolored 4-Piece Set, Straight Edge, 3"
Aside from the Buck Knives paring knife, I love these Victorinox paring knives. I currently do not have any of those but I have some made by Pampered Chef and I honestly think that this company makes them.
I have used these knives in the past and they are razor sharp (be careful with them) and they hold a great edge.
Buck 932 Slicer Kitchen Knife - Buck Knives OFFICIAL SITE
This slicer is essential to any kitchen set. The blade features a unique serration for effortless cutting and the durable handle ensures this knife will last for years. Available in Rosewood DymaLux® (handwash only) and Slate PaperStone® (dishwasher safe) handles.
Buck knives are legendary in the hunting and fishing world. If you grew up hunting and fishing, chances are your dad or uncle had a buck knife. I love sharing brands that I grew up around and I feel safe and comfortable recommending them to my viewers because I have had a long history with that brand.
OXO 3-Piece Everyday Cutting Board Set
Kiss cross-contamination worries goodbye with the OXO 3-Piece Everyday Cutting Board Set. Durable construction won’t dull sharp knives, while color-coded bands keep you organized in the kitchen. Soft, tapered edges double as a comfortable handle, and the cutting surface goes easy on your knives. Non-slip feet keep the board in place for safety as you slice. Each 9-in by 12.9-in board has an integrated drip-catcher with easy-pour corners. When you're done, pop it in the dishwasher for quick cleaning.
Oneida Figura 20 Piece Everyday Flatware Set, Service for 4, 18/0 Stainless Steel, Silverware Set, B282020AL20
Flatware is one of the most essential tools you need in a kitchen. Oneida is a company that has been around for a long time and the silverware is durable and at a reasonable price. We use this brand in our house for our everyday needs.
- INCLUDES: This Oneida silverware set contains (4) dinner knives, (4) dinner forks, (4) salad forks, (4) dinner spoons and (4) teaspoons. The Figura line was designed for casual restaurants and everyday home meals.
- CLASSIC DESIGN: Let’s honor beauty. A hollow handle’s subtle valley plays with symmetry so you can celebrate curves properly. With clean edges and rippling outlines, this silverware set is a smoother silhouette.
- TOP QUALITY: What distinguishes silverware to the touch? Finish and weight. This expertly crafted pattern is mirror-finished and heavy in the hand. The result? Perfection.
- PREMIUM STAINLESS STEEL: 18/0 stainless-steel silverware is extra durable and provides rust protection. These utensils will shine for dining and wash clean in the dishwasher worry-free.
Nordic Ware Microwave Everyday Dinner Plates, Set of 4, white, 10 Inch
Nordic Ware is one of my favorite brands to buy. The products are made in the USA and are quality products at a reasonable price.
These Set of 4 dinner plates are great for everyday use and are not breakable making them a great option for first-time homeowners, homeowners with young kids, or if you own an AirBnb. They are also great for anyone at any stage in life as well. They are made of durable Melamine.
- Simple and elegant
- Microwave safe
- Bpa- and melamine-free
- Set of 4
- Made in America
OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Leakproof Plastic Food Storage Container Set
OXO Good Grips Smart Seal Food Storage Containers are made of BPA-free plastic, so they're ideal for storing leftovers or bringing food on the go. Thoughtfully engineered lids come equipped with a leakproof, spillproof and worry-proof silicone seal that’s easily removable for cleaning, plus four locking tabs keep food secure. Smart Seal containers stack neatly in your fridge or freezer and nest in your cupboard while not in use. Lids are interchangeable between glass and plastic Smart Seal Containers. Dishwasher safe and microwave safe. This set includes Two 5.7 oz Containers and lids Two 1.6 cup Containers and lids Two 3 cup Containers and lids One 4.6 cup Containers and lid One 6.2 cup Containers and lidOXO Good Grips Smart Seal Food Storage Containers are made of BPA-free plastic, so they're ideal for storing leftovers or bringing food on the go. Thoughtfully engineered lids come equipped with a leakproof, spillproof and worry-proof silicone seal that’s easily removable for cleaning, plus four locking tabs keep food secure. Smart Seal containers stack neatly in your fridge or freezer and nest in your cupboard while not in use. Lids are interchangeable between glass and plastic Smart Seal Containers. Dishwasher safe and microwave safe. This set includes Two 5.7 oz Containers and lids Two 1.6 cup Containers and lids Two 3 cup Containers and lids One 4.6 cup Containers and lid One 6.2 cup Containers and lid
US Acrylic Optix Plastic Reusable Drinking Glasses (Set of 8) 20oz Water Cups in Jewel Tone Colors | BPA-Free Tumblers, Made in USA | Top-Rack Dishwasher Safe
We have some of these Acrylic Glasses and we love them. They are durable and hard to break. These are Made in the USA as well.
- Elevate your drinkware collection with our American-made 8-piece set that includes eight 20-ounce glasses. Made from high-quality plastic material that's free of harmful chemicals, our cups provide a reliable option for you and your party guests.
- These cups feature 8 brilliant rainbow colors, a stylish twist pattern, a smooth top edge for easy sipping, and a thick base that provides a glass-like appearance, making them both comfortable and stylish. This design will add an updated look to your kitchen aesthetic.
- Think outside the house- This Optix plastic glass set is a great addition to any college dorm room, first apartment, RV, and camper. Consider adding these as a wedding registry gift for a new household.
- Stock your home bar for cocktail hour or prepare for morning breakfast, brunch, and dinner with this selection of highball tumblers. Entertain outdoors on the patio, pool, or hot tub with these durable and shatterproof pieces.
- The 20 fl. oz. cups (3.50" diameter x 6" tall) are versatile and suitable for any drinkware need.
OXO Good Grips 2-Cup Angled Measuring Cup
I love this OXO angled measuring cup. I have this exact one and the main thing I love about it is you are usually over top of a measuring cup when filling it up. The way this one is designed is you can see the readings by looking into the cup because of the angled design. It is more accurate and keeps you from bending over or lifting up the measuring cup to see if you are at the measurement you need.
They make this same one in 1 cup, 2 cup, and 4 cup sizes.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Spoons Set, 2.9, 8 Piece
I have this same set of Measuring cups. They are sturdy and durable. I will be buying the measuring spoons soon.
OXO 3 Piece Mixing Bowl Set Plastic Asst, 3 EA
This is a set of 3 nesting mixing bowls. They have an easy-grip texture on the back portion and a pouring spout on the front.
Thermapen ONE
Whether you're a seasoned chef or an enthusiastic home cook, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. Regarding accuracy, speed, and reliability in temperature measurement, the Thermoworks Thermapen stands out as the undisputed champion of the best instant-read thermometer.
Hi-Temp Silicone Turner
Engineered to survive the rigors of a commercial kitchen without compromising the usability to deliver finesse in your cooking.
OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk
The Balloon Whisk's shape is ideal for whipping ingredients for maximum fluffiness. Our Whisks feature polished stainless steel wires and teardrop-shaped handles that fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. The soft handle won't slip even in wet hands.
Hi-Temp Silicone Ladle
Scoop and pour all your favorite soups, sauces, batters, and more. With a sturdy ½ cup bowl and reinforced handle, the ThermoWorks Hi-Temp Silicone Ladle can handle it all. Cleaning is a breeze because of the single-piece design. Rated to 600°F.
OXO Good Grips 3- Piece Wooden Utensil Set
Every kitchen needs a set of wooden spoons. These come in handy when cooking using non-stick pans or cast iron pans.
Hi-Temp Silicone Spatula
Why does ThermoWorks make spatulas? If you have a Thermapen for home use, then we know you want the very best thermal tools for the kitchen. Designed by ThermoWorks the spatula's square corner fits into tight spots in a pan or jar bottoms. Edges are smoothly tapered to a sharp point for scraping. The smooth matte surfaces complement the contours for perfect spreading. The molded silicone handle fits the hand for a confident grip. With no seams or creases to trap food, this spatula is a breeze to keep clean. Plus, you can just throw it in your dishwasher. The weighting and length are ideal for wielding in a variety of kitchen tasks from mixing, folding, serving, spreading, scraping, stirring, and flipping. Use it in a batter or at the stove. Keep it off the burner itself, but we use ours for scratch-free stirring of sautes in non-stick pans.
Hi-Temp Silicone Brush
Whether saucing up ribs, basting poultry, or glazing rolls with butter, you want a brush with an even, wide delivery every time. BPA- and stain-free, rated to 600F, and easily cleaned in the dishwasher, comes in 10 colors and two sizes.
Silicone Hotpad/Trivet 7"
With one of these in each hand, you can grab and grip any pot or pan no matter how hot or wet. Then throw them on the table as trivets when it's time to serve. Our customers buy these in handfuls.
Silicone Hot pad/Trivet 9"x12"
We handle hot objects every day in our labs, in the demo kitchen at work, and our cooking at home. We’ve tried every kind of hot pad and trivet out there. We took what we learned and designed exactly what we wanted. We studied size, shape, materials, flexibility, durability, and heat resistance. We looked at similar existing designs but found that too many were too stiff, some fell apart too easily, some had awkward shapes and some just looked cheap and flimsy. Our design is just right in our opinion. It is perfectly sized for casserole dishes, roasting pans, cake pans, cookie sheets, and lots more. We designed a sturdier, dishwasher-safe trivet that will hold up in daily commercial use and perform at higher temperatures. And, it comes in 10 colors to match your Thermapen or ChefAlarm. Every kitchen needs a bunch of these!
All Clad Silicone Oven Mitt, 1 Pack, Cornflower
Durable oven mitt set 100% cotton-twill construction with textured, dual-sided silicone treatment for a confident, left- and right-handed non-slip grip
Original Collapsible Batter Bowl | Accessories | CanCooker
The collapsible Batter bowl is ideal for evenly applying batter to fish, pork, chicken, seafood, vegetables, and other crowd favorites! Now available in two sizes, Original and XL. The XL is 33% larger than the original Batter Bowl and collapses to the same ultra-portable size.
OXO Good Smooth Edge Can Opener
By cutting on the side of the can below the edge, the Smooth Edge Can Opener leaves no sharp edges on the can or lid. The sharp, hardened stainless steel cutting wheel stays clean, avoiding contact with can contents, while the lid pliers allow for no-touch lid removal.
Made-In Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cooking Set
I think every kitchen needs a good set of Stainless Steel pots and pans. They are versatile and long-lasting, virtually indestructible.
I have Emeril Stainless Steel pots and pans and I own a few Calphalon pans. For the money, this is a great set.
For purists, this assortment of Award-Winning stainless-clad cookware is the chef-approved foundation your kitchen is missing.
- Made in Italy
- Premium 5-Ply Stainless Clad
- Stay-Cool Handles
- Compatible with Gas, Electric, and Induction Cooktops
- Lifetime Warranty
Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle - Use in the Oven, on the Stove, on the Grill, or Over a Campfire, Black
After you get a set of Stainless Steel pots and Pans, the next item you need is a Cast Iron Skillet. If you take care of a cast iron skillet it will last you a lifetime. I prefer Lodge Cast Iron unless I can find an old one pan at a yard sale.
Made In Cookware - Non Stick 3 Piece Frying Pan Set (Includes 8",10",12") - 5 Ply Stainless Clad - Professional Cookware - Crafted in Italy - Induction Compatible (Harbour Blue)
Made in the USA non-stick frying pans.
These are top quality and like the header says, made in the USA.
- Includes: 8" Non-Stick Frying Pan | 10" Non-Stick Frying Pan | 12" Non-Stick Frying Pan
- Healthy Cooking Ready - This ultra-slick surface lets you skip the oil, not the flavor, and create healthy meals with ease
- Made In Stick Pans are crafted with a professional-grade nonstick coating
- Designed to Last - With a Stainless Clad base and two layers of Non-Stick coating, this Non-Stick Pan last 70x longer than ceramic cookware
- Cleans in Seconds - Thanks to the slick surface, most meals cooked in this Non-Stick Pan can be completely cleaned in seconds
- Made in Italy - Proudly crafted by artisans in Italy from premium metals to ensure you receive the highest-quality cookware
Blue Diamond Cookware Diamond Infused Ceramic Nonstick 12" Frying Pan Skillet, PFAS-Free, Dishwasher Safe, Oven Safe, Blue
This brand is cheap but I have had success with it. I made a video on my YouTube channel a few years back and I still get people that comment to how terrible it is, but that has not been my experience with it. There is hardly a scratch on the cooking surface.
I bought this pan with the idea of really abusing it to see if the claims were true. I 100% expected this pan to not last, but I was wrong.
Now your experience may be different but I have made a 1 year update video showing what it looked like up close.
Pyrex Basics Clear Oblong Glass Baking Dishes, 2 Piece Value-plus Pack Set Made in the USA
These are the standard baking dishes or casserole dishes that I would recommend. These are time-tested and most Southerners use these.
Nordic Ware 3 Piece Baker's Delight Set, 1 Pack, Natural
Nordic Ware is another brand that I love. They have been in business for a long time and the products are Made In the USA. Very high-quality products at a reasonable price.
Nordic Ware Polypropylene Plates Microwave Serveware, 10", White
Made in USA of polypropylene, a BPA-free and Melamine-free plastic. Color is white with light gray speckles. Microwave safe plates.
Utopia Towels Dish Towels, 15 x 25 Inches, 100% Ring Spun Cotton Super Absorbent Linen Kitchen Towels, Soft Reusable Cleaning Bar and Tea Towels Set (12 Pack, Blue)
- STRONG AND LONG-LASTING MATERIAL- Made from 100% ring spun cotton, the dish towels are durable and firm enough to withstand repeated uses and washings. The towels have a side stripe design that makes them look decent and elegant
Rubbermaid 2-Piece Pitcher Set with 3 Position Pour Spout Lid for Water, Tea, and Drinks, Dishwasher Safe, 1-Gallon, Clear/Red
This is the exact model of tea pitcher I have used for many years. They are durable and cheap.
Victorinox REX Straight-Blade Metal Fruit and Vegetable Peeler
It looks simple, but it works.
Premium Apple Corer, Sturdy Apple Corer Tool For Removing Pits, Durable Portable Stainless Steel Fruit Core Remover with Sharp Serrated for Pears, Bell Peppers, Fuji
Used to remove the core from apples.
Cuisinart CTG-22-GPT Garlic Press, Aqua
I love using a garlic press. The one I have is from Pampered Chef but this one is much better made than mine. It is simple to use and you don't have to worry about peeling the garlic first.
Put the clove in, press, and you are left with the skin behind. Works great!
Johnny Apple Peeler, Corer, Slicer, Pie Maker, Stainless Steel Blades, Red VKP1010
For years I have used this apple peeler to peel my apples and other hard fruit. At some point, the company has changed names but this is the exact one that I have. It works wonderfully and it does a quick job of peeling when you have a lot of fruit. When our kids were younger, I bought this peeler to peel fruit to make baby food for them and then I canned it.
KitchenAid 13-Cup Food Processor, Contour Silver
- All-in-one storage solution to store all blades and discs directly in the in-bowl storage caddy.
- Easily adjust slicing thickness with the externally adjustable Exact Slice disc, from thick to thin.
- Snap and Go, easy clean work bowl for easy set up with the twist-free, one-click bowl assembly and latched lid. Add warm water and 1-2 drops of dish soap in the leak-resistant bowl to quickly clean bowl and blades.
Vitamix Immersion Blender, Stainless Steel, 18 inches
- 5-Variable Speed settings, LED light display & Ergonomic Handle Design
- Scratch Resistance Blade Guard prevents scratching and marring favorite pots and pans
- Easy twist lock assembly
- Powerful Motor makes every blending task faster
- Stainless Steel Body compliments other kitchen appliances
- Included components: Immersion motor, immersion wand, owner’s manual
- What's in the Box: Immersion motor, immersion wand, owner’s manual, Getting started pamphlet