Whether you’re an experienced chef or a homemaker, having the right tools can make your cooking experience a great one, and even make cleanup a breeze. Here’s a roundup of some of my favorite popular kitchen tools that every home cook should consider having in their kitchen.
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1. Chef’s Knife
A chef’s knife is an essential and multipurpose tool in every kitchen; made for chopping, slicing, dicing, and micing. Choose a knife with a sturdy, sharp blade that is easy to hold. A well-maintained chef’s knife can last for many years. I’ve listed several knife recommendations from Amazon.

- PAUDIN Damascus Knife Set 3 PCS is currently on Amazon for $199.99
- WÜSTHOF Classic IKON 8-Inch Chef’s Knife is currently on Amazon for $139.99
- MAC Pro Series 8″ Chef’s knife is currently on Amazon for $209.95
2. Cutting Boards
A few cutting boards in various sizes and materials might be helpful. While plastic or glass cutting boards are easy to clean and disinfect, they are perfect for cutting fresh or sticky foods. Wooden boards are great for regular chopping and are gentle on knife blades. Take a look at some of the options I’ve listed for you from Amazon.

- OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Plastic Cutting Board Set is currently on Amazon for $23.99
- ROYAL CRAFT WOOD Cutting Boards is currently on Amazon for $32.97
- Epicurean Gourmet Series Cutting Board is currently on Amazon for $79.99
3. Cast Iron Skillet
You can use a cast iron pan for anything from making bread to searing steaks. It is multipurpose. It creates a lovely, even cooking surface and holds heat incredibly well. Just like a well-maintained knife, cast iron can last for years with the right upkeep, and with time, seasoning can make it even better. One of my favorite ways to use my skillet is on the grill to make choriqueso, a Mexican appetizer. Here in Texas, we are all about BBQ! I’ve linked cast iron skillets that are great quality from Amazon. FYI, I own the Texas-shaped skillet and it’s a piece for conversation when we host our carne asada nights.

- Texas Map Shaped Cast Iron Skillet is currently on Amazon for $56.56
- Lodge 12 inch Cast Iron Blacklock Skillet is currently on Amazon for $79.95
- Lodge 15 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet is currently on Amazon for $49.00
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measuring is essential for baking and cooking. A set of measuring spoons and cups makes it easier to follow recipe instructions and gives accurate food measurements. Although plastic sets and stainless steel are common options, stainless steel is typically stronger. I own both plastic and stainless steel measuring spoons and cups. My favorite is the wooden gold-tone measuring spoons and cups.

- Gold Measuring Cups and Spoons are currently on Amazon for $20.95
- Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 10 Pieces is currently on Amazon for $26.98
- KitchenAid Universal Measuring Cup and Spoon Set is currently on Amazon for $17.60
5. Mixing Bowls
Tossing salads, prepping ingredients, and mixing batters all need mixing bowls. Plastic, glass, and stainless steel are all excellent options. I recommend purchasing different size bowls to meet your food preparation needs.

- Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids is currently on Amazon for $37.99
- COOK WITH COLOR Mixing Bowls with TPR Lids is currently on Amazon for $26.99
- Superior Glass Mixing Bowls Set with Lids is currently on Amazon for $26.99
6. Peeler
When it comes to fruit and vegetable preparation, a good vegetable peeler can save you time and effort. If you want to peel vegetables quickly and easily, go for one with a sharp blade and a comfortable grip. The ergonomic shape of Y-peeler designs makes them very popular.

- Spring Chef Premium Swivel Vegetable Peeler is currently on Amazon for $7.99
- OXO Good Grips Swivel Vegetable Peeler is currently on Amazon for $9.99
- Premium Potato Peeler Stainless Steel is currently on Amazon for $29.99
7. Tongs
Tongs come in handy for rotating meat, tossing salads, and serving pasta. They can be used for many different things in the kitchen and let you handle hot foods without contacting them directly. I highly recommend a pair of tongs with a locking mechanism offer for easy storage.

- Boxiki Kitchen Tongs for Cooking with Wooden Tips currently on Amazon for $23.75
- Hotec Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs Set of 2 – 9″ and 12″ currently on Amazon for $9.99
- HOTEC Premium Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs, Set of 2-9″ currently on Amazon for $7.99
8. Can Opener
To open cans of food securely and effectively, you must have a good can opener. Although electric can openers offer an option for individuals who would rather not use their hands, manual can openers with strong, ergonomic handles are still a must in case electricity is unavailable. I recommend you buy both an electric can opener and a manual can opener.

- Kitchen Mama Automatic Electric Can Opener is currently on Amazon for $29.99
- KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener is currently on Amazon for $11.99
- Easy-Prep Electric Can Opener by Drew Barrymore is currently on Amazon for $45.911
9. Food Processor
From slicing and chopping to pureeing and mixing, a food processor can handle a wide range of tasks. It is an excellent tool for making dough, dips, and sauces. Purchasing a top-notch food processor can help you save a lot of time and work in the kitchen.

- Cuisinart 8 Cup Food Processor is currently on Amazon for $99.95
- KitchenAid 7-Cup Food Processor is currently on Amazon for $99.99
10. Whisk
A whisk is great for whisking cream, beating eggs, and combining sauces. Stainless steel whisks are an excellent choice since they are sturdy and easy to maintain.

- Ouddy 3 Pack Stainless Steel Whisks 8″+10″+12″ is currently on Amazon for $7.99
- OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Sauce & Gravy Whisk is currently on Amazon for $11.99
11. Silicone Spatulas
Heat-resistant and flexible, silicon spatulas are ideal for scrapping off the batter or sauces from your bowls. They come in different sizes and shapes for various uses and are gentle on non-stick cookware.

- 5 Pieces Silicone Spatula Set is currently on Amazon for $8.99
- DI ORO Silicone Spatula Set is currently on Amazon for $24.97
12. Instant-Read Thermometer
To avoid overcooked or undercooked meals, it is important to use an instant-read thermometer to make sure your meats are cooked to the proper temperature. Digital models are a useful tool for precise cooking since they give quick and accurate data.

- CHEF iQ Sense Smart Wireless Meat Thermometer is currently on Amazon for $125.99
- Wireless Bluetooth Smart Meat Thermometer is currently on Amazon for $149.99
13. Colander
A colander is used for draining pasta, washing vegetables, and rinsing grains. While plastic colanders are lightweight, stainless steel colanders are durable and long-lasting.

- Metal Colander Set of 3 is currently on Amazon for $49.99
14. Timer
A kitchen timer is essential for keeping track of cooking times. Digital timers with huge displays and loud warnings can help you avoid over- or undercooking your food.

- Antonki Timer, 2 Pack Timer is currently on Amazon for $6.97
15. Grater
A grater is used for shredding cheese, zesting citrus, and grating vegetables. I recommend a box grater with numerous sides because it provides a variety of grading choices.

- Spring Chef Professional Stainless Steel XL Cheese Grater is currently on Amazon for $14.99
- Deiss PRO Lemon Zester & Heavy Duty Cheese Grater is currently on Amazon for $10.98
16. Electric Mixer
Whether you choose an electric or a hand mixer, I highly recommend having one in your kitchen. Mixers are most efficient, from saving time to producing consistent results and reducing physical strain. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good sturdy whisk but sometimes an electric mixer works out best. If you enjoy cooking or baking, investing in a high-quality electric mixer is the way to go!

- KitchenAid Classic Series 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is currently on Amazon for $ 299.00
- KitchenAid Go™ Cordless Hand Mixer is currently on Amazon for $129.99
- Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Whisk is currently on Amazon for $21.99
17. Sillicon Mat
A silicone baking mat is more than simply a useful kitchen accessory; it is versatile, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly. Its nonstick characteristics, versatility, and easiness of cleaning make it a useful kitchen must-have. You can use the mat to roll dough, pop it in the oven when baking, or lay it on your counter and place hot items on top. I recommend the MimeKitchen silicon baking mat. It is made out of 100% food-gradable silicone and heat resistant fiberglass guaranteeing longibility. The mat has a conversion chart on the corner and a size guide to guide you when rolling out your dough. 10/10 in my kitchen!

- Mimekitchen Silicon Mat is currently on Amazon for $7.49
Conclusion
Buying these suggested kitchen items will prepare you to handle a variety of dishes no matter your cooking abilities. Whether you are cooking for yourself or your family, these kitchen equipment recommendations will make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable.
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