When it comes to creating a functional and enjoyable kitchen, having the right tools can make all the difference. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner cook, these kitchen essentials will not only make your time in the kitchen more efficient but also elevate your cooking experience.
Below, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite kitchen items that I believe every kitchen should have. Trust me, I have so many more - but I'll save the rest for another blog day.
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1. Le Creuset Revolution Spatula Spoon
Why I Love It:
This has to be the smoothest silicone spatula I have ever used. Honestly, I didn't even know that was a thing to mention until I used this. It is such a joy to use and has made cooking that much more enjoyable. Also, if you own a Le Creuset pot, this is a must. You can only use wooden spoons or silicone products in them, as to not damage the enamel. I have also loved displaying it on my counter with my wooden spoons.
Where to Buy:
2. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Oval Dutch Oven, 8 qt., White
Why I Love It:
If you ever wondered what it felt like to cook like a french chef, let me introduct the answer to your prayers. I have forever wanted a Le Creuset Dutch Oven and once I finally had one, I could honestly say I understood what all the hype was about. It is so wonderful to cook in, it creates beautiful dishes, and the food comes out tasting like it was prepared in a french bistro in Paris - Bon Appétit!
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3. Mackenzie-Childs Cotton Dish Towels
Why I Love It:
Kitchen towels are an underestimated way to add decor to your kitchen. Sometimes it is quite literally the missing je ne se quoi that just elevates your kitchen space. Not only are they functional - as every good cook needs to wipe their paws - they are stunning to look at, hanging from your oven handle. Mackenzie-Childs classic courtly check print gives the classic kitchen look that is timeless and practical. These are perfect because they also feature the iconic Mackenzie-Childs tea kettle.
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4. KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer K45SS, White
Why I Love It:
If there is one kitchen tool you should invest in, it is by far a KitchenAid Stand Mixer. Not only do they look gorgeous in the kitchen, they are key to making fluffy cakes and perfected meringues. It is such a time saver when preparing meals and desserts and can really elevate your level of cooking and baking. Not to mention, the unlimited attachments that you can purchase. Such things as ice cream makers and pasta tools. They last such a long time and have great warrantys. I can't say enough good things about these and I feel they are truly an investment. They are a great wedding registry or house warming gift.
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5.KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor
Why I Love It:
While on the talk of time savers, the KitchenAid food processor creates a seamless kitchen scene. It chops your veggies, it blends your sauces and salsas, and it even produces the most flakey and perfect pie crust. This has to be one of my top gift recommendations for new couples and home owners. They are easy to clean and store nicely tucked away in a cupboard, or on display in a large pantry shelf. Heres a tip: Make sure to buy similar colors in all of your kitchen tools that you invest in, to be sure they match and will add to your collection nicely throughout the years.
Where to Buy:
6. KitchenAid 9-Speed Digital Hand Mixer with Turbo Beater II Accessories and Pro Whisk - White
Why I Love It:
I love both my stand mixer and my hand mixer individually and for different purposes. I do love the convenience of a hand mixer and the fact that you can quickly and easily wash the attachments and tuck it back away without too much of a fuss. My hand mixer is always my go-to for making my annual fall pumpkins rolls.
Where to Buy:
7. Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender
Why I Love It:
There are normal blenders and then there are... Vitamix blenders. If you know, you know. They make the perfect franchise quality smoothies and also serve so many other purposes. I love that it comes with a nice recipe cookbook for ideas to use with it. If you are looking to save and make your own smoothies at home, this is for sure a perfect investment. You can also make lovely soups as well.
Where to Buy:
8. KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt Set in Milkshake
Why I Love It:
Every kitchen is not complete unless you have good quality silicone oven mitts. The heat protective qualities in the silicone is unmatched and I just love the nude 'milkshake' color of these.
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9. Unisex Buffalo Check Kitchen Collection, Classic Farmhouse Chef Apron
Why I Love It:
Now how cute is this apron? Yes I have this exact one and use it all of the time. It looks so timeless and elegant. I love that it is machine washable and holds up to many messes.
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10. Large Checkered Wood Cutting Board for Kitchen
Why I Love It:
Wood cutting boards are not only decorative but we all need one pretty much daily in the kitchen. Mackenzie-Childs also sells a checkered cutting board, but I love this one for a fraction of the price and it still delivers the same effect. You could stand this on your kitchen counter behind your favorite cookbook, or tuck it away until your next chop session, or hosting with your beautiful charcuterie.
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11. KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears
Why I Love It:
Every cook needs a decent pair of kitchen shears that are dedicated solely to the kitchen. They come in handy for opening things as well as spatchcocking a chicken. For sanitation purposes, it only makes sense to dedicate a pair just for the space alone.
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12. Pyrex 2 Piece Glass Measuring Cup Set
Why I Love It:
Pyrex has proven to be the best measuring cup brand to date. You can find vintage ones sometimes and if so, snag them while you can. They handle great with temperature changes from hot to cold and vice versa. I recommend two in the kitchen - at least - and of different sizes. This set of two is wonderful and all you need.
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13. KitchenAid Silicone Tipped Stainless Steel Tongs
Why I Love It:
Silicone tongs are essential if you own anything enamel. However, they are perfect for any type of pot in the kitchen. I love the length on these tongs and they tend to last a long time. They are great when dealing with pasta, tossing a salad, or even flipping items on a pan in the oven. Highly recommend.
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14. Mackenzie-Childs Black-and-White Courtly Check Tea Kettle
Why I Love It:
When I think of a classic kitchen, I think of Mackenzie-Childs and the world reknown tea kettle. These hand painted wonderful pieces are unique and no two are a like. As decor, they just look stunning on an oven, in a hutch, or on a table around a good conversation and tea. If you could treat yourself to one splurge, I think this item you wouldn't regret. I use mine practically everyday and I thoroughly enjoy myself everytime I do.
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15. Anchor Hocking 10 Piece Mixing Bowl Set
Why I Love It:
Every kitchen needs a mixing bowl set. Anchor hocking is another one of my favorite brands for the kitchen and has standed the test of time and usage. I think if you just have this set alone, you would be good for mixing bowls. I do know you can never have too many, but this set is a perfect start. If you are just starting out, this is a great set to get you going.
Where to Buy:
These are obviously just a few of the kitchen essentials I believe everyone should have on hand to make cooking more enjoyable and efficient. The space you surround yourself with really impacts your mood, creativity, inspiration, and drive. Ultimately all of these can have an effect on the outcome of your food you prepare. Not only are these all functional, they are all so beautiful to display on your counters as well. Why not showcase these beauties? Whether you're upgrading your kitchen or starting from scratch, investing in quality tools can truly transform your culinary experience.
Do you have any must-have kitchen items you can't live without? Drop them in the comments below—I’d love to hear your recommendations!
