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If you’re a twenty something trying to transition your cheap college Ikea kitchen essentials to a grown up higher end kitchen to cook all your favorite dishes, this list is for you! We’ve been thinking about doing this post for awhile, but have put it off because we knew it would be hard to limit the items. That being said, we’ve had so many people ask us what items we recommend for everyday cooking that it’s time we share our kitchen essentials list. 

We recommend investing in good quality items. You’re an adult now! You want items that will stand the test of time. If you’re getting married, this is the perfect opportunity to fill up your wedding registry with some of the pricier items. We’ve tried to stick to the basics in this list. Things you would need to successfully make most dishes. That being said, it’s not all inclusive. There might be things you need to get for your custom tastes. If you love making Asian dishes, for example, a wok might be super useful for you. If you make pasta three times a week, a pasta pot may be useful, etc. I recommend slowly replacing your items as your old ones wear down, that way you aren’t spending a ton all at once. But by all means, feel free to go on a shopping spree at your favorite cookware store. 

The Basics:

These are your kitchen workhorses. If you are on a strict budget, these are the items you want to focus your budget on. 

1. Classic Chef’s Knife. A chef’s knife can be used for almost everything in your kitchen. Don’t waste money on a sub-par knife set. Get a high quality chef’s knife. We recommend Shun or Wusthof, however, go to a store and try them out. William Sonoma and Sur La Table usually have someone that can allow you to demo them. 
2. Wood Cutting Board. This obviously goes along with the knife, but you need a good space to prep. I recommend a larger cutting board, but one that still easily fits in your sink to wash. 
3. Plastic Cutting Board. We prefer plastic cutting boards for raw meats/proteins. Plus these are dishwasher safe.
4. Non-Stick Skillet. We recommend at least one medium sized skillet. We have a smaller one and one extra-large one. Great for eggs, sauteeing veggies, and a good alternative to a wok for Asian dishes. 
5. Cast Iron Skillet. Ideal for searing meats/fish. Creates a sear hard to achieve with other materials. Also useful for baking breads like focaccia or corn bread. Easy to clean and cheap. Can’t go wrong with Lodge brand.
6. Dutch Oven. We were so nervous to spend the money on a Le Creuset Dutch Oven, but it’s pricey for a reason. They last!! My grandma had hers her whole life. Perfect for braising, soups, stews, sauces. Easily transfers from stovetop to oven. 
7. Stock Pot. You need one large pot for things like boiling pasta, making chicken stock, or large quantities of soups/stews if feeding a crowd. 
8. Sheet Pans. Pair with Silicone Baking mats for roasting or baking anything and everything! 
9. Ceramic Casserole Dish. For lasagnas, casseroles, enchiladas, mashed potatoes, you get the idea. 
10. Mixing Bowls. We prefer stainless steel. They won’t break and are lightweight. Double for food prep but also great for baking.

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Kitchen Appliances:

We have a smaller kitchen, so we had to be selective with our kitchen appliances. These are our top 3. 

1. Vitamix Blender. Worth the extra money. Can double almost as a food processor. We’ve made nut butters in it, dressings, sauces, soups, smoothies, hummus, etc. Everything comes out to smooth – no lumps! If on a budget, consider a certified refurbished one. 
2. Food Processor. While the Vitamix can do *almost* everything, have a mini food processor has been great for making smaller quantities of items like dressings or sauces. 
3. Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer. Another item worth the extra cost, in our opinion! It will take your baking to the next level, BUT also comes with so many options for attachments if you are more adventurous in the kitchen. We have the meat grinder attachment, for homemade sausages as well as the pasta attachments.

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Utensils:

Obviously, you need some other key utensils other than a knife. Here are a few basics. 

1. Tongs. Highly recommend a GOOD pair of tongs. We love these Rosle Tongs. You will go through so many cheap tongs until you invest in a good pair, just trust us. 
2. Rubber Spatula. Necessary for any baking you’ll be doing. 
3. Wooden Spoons. For stirring without scraping your nice new pots and pans.
4. Ladle. For any soups, broths, liquids. 
5. Metal Spatula. For turning more delicate items like hash browns, fish, etc. 
6. Whisk. For beating eggs, sauces, dressings. Love our mini whisk!
7. Veggie Peeler. We’ve tried more expensive versions, but always come back to these Kuhn peelers! 
8. Can Opener. A simple handheld one is all you need. 
9. Box Grater. For shredding cheese, zesting citrus, grating nutmeg, etc. 
10. Measuring Cups/Spoons. Because you’ve got to measure stuff!
11. Corkscrew Bottle Opener. Master opening a bottle of wine with a basic bottle opener and you’ll never need any of those fancy wine openers! 

For your convenience, we’ve linked these kitchen essentials into our Amazon Storefront! 

This post contains some affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something we recommended.