A well-stocked kitchen is key to making homemade meals. But with so many new gadgets and tools coming out all the time, it’s hard to know what is truly essential for your cooking needs—and what is just overhyped. We asked chefs, home cooks and food influencers for their must-have kitchen essentials to help you stock your cupboards with the right equipment for cooking up a storm. From silicone kitchen tools to wooden cooking utensils, these handy items are designed to last.
A sturdy, wood-handled spoon is a basic kitchen essential for stirring and mixing. A set of three or four in different sizes lets you have one for every purpose, while also providing plenty of space to stash in a drawer. Choose from a variety of styles, including sets with qualities like XL handles or slots for hanging. These spoons are great for tossing in the dishwasher, too, unlike metal ones that can leave marks on your nonstick pans or scratches on glass top stoves.
This is a must-have for any cook, but especially if you’re a beginner who’s still learning the ropes of cooking. A good quality nonstick pan is forgiving when it comes to mistakes and can be easily cleaned, while also delivering even cooking and great browning results. A high-quality pan will last you a long time, so it’s worth the investment.
You can’t cook without a set of durable pots and pans, but you don’t necessarily need to break the bank. Ree Drummond, aka The Pioneer Woman, has created a fun and affordable collection of classic farmhouse-inspired cookware that’s easy on the wallet but big on functionality. These pieces are a great fit for small spaces and come in fun display-worthy patterns, so they’ll look good in your cupboard.
There’s nothing worse than serving up a dry and overcooked piece of meat, but that can be avoided with a reliable meat thermometer. This premium pick from ThermoPro is waterproof and digital, so you can easily retrieve readings in just a few seconds.
A splatter guard is the best way to keep your stovetop clean while you’re frying and sautéing. Simply place it over your skillet during high-heat cooking to keep hot oil or splatters from coating your countertops. It’s a simple kitchen tool that can make a huge difference in your cleanup routine.
If you love baking, be sure to grab a few versatile and useful kitchen tools that are also good for the environment, such as this eco-friendly silicone spatula that’s heat-resistant and stain-proof. Also, a good quality wooden cutting board is a must-have for chopping up veggies and fruits and doubling as a serveware item on the table.
A basic chopping knife is a must-have for any chef, but this stainless steel blade with a ceramic core is a little more advanced than your standard model. It holds up against tough, daily use, has a comfortable grip and is rust-resistant. It’s also dishwasher safe, so it’s easier to keep clean than most models that can only be hand-washed.