Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Must-Have Kitchen Essentials

Purple Star emoji 15 items
The foundation of the kitchen are the basic and core kitchen items that provide versatility and functionality.  This curated list of kitchen tools are the what people should have in their kitchens - whether starting out or not.
Sections
2
 
 

Food Preparation

This a curated list of kitchen must haves. If cooking is your passion, and you love to create recipes, these are some go-to's to make your cooking journey easier. Cooking is my jam! I have lots of tools and gadgets that make my kitchen workable for m... 

 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
I’ve been using my kitchen aid mixer for years. Love it. Its an absolute must if you want maximum capability and options.
Stand Mixers made by KitchenAid
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
A must for the kitchen. I always need measuring cups and spoons. I have 2 sets to make things a little bit easier. These are sturdy and dishwasher safe.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Easy to use and stackable. Microwaveable when you need it. Dishwasher safe. Top product for the kitchen.
Stackable Mixing Bowls
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
A useful item for mixing dressings and scrambling eggs in the morning. Easy to clean. Comes with attachments. Stores easily. I have one and it’s the best for making homemade mayonnaise.
Immersion Blender
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Basic ceramic cookware is easy to clean.  Cooking with it is a change. Mine work well. Love the color and how easy it is to handle.
Ceramic Cookware
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
I love coffee in the morning. Cuisinart is the best. While there are many options the brand is what you are looking for. You want it to last. Cuisinart is my go-to.
Coffee Maker
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Baking tools are needed in the kitchen. You can't bake your cookies without them.   I have a set that I use constantly.   I love to cook and these are essential.
Baking Sheets & Ceramic Bakeware
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Cooking utensils are needed to prep foods. great additions for the pots, pans and bowls I recommend. They wash well.
Tools
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Cutting Boards are a necessary item in the kitchen for any food prep.   Wooden ones with grooves on the edges allow the liquid to run alongside to prevent drippage on the counter.  Wooden cutting boards are better, eco safe and easier to clean. I recommend getting 2 - one for fruits and vegetables and the other for meats. (affiliate link)
Wooden Cutting Board
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
This has got to the best invention ever. A defroster that works! It’s amazing. I received this as a gift and recommend it to everyone. Saves so much time, easy clean up, stores easily and just all around fabulous. This is a must-have for the ki...
Defrosting Tray

Plating and Styling

Create your own style for plating your food at breakfast, lunch or dinner. These are some of the classics that work every time. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Simplistic. Sophisticated. Clean. Versatile for any kitchen and dining experience. Dishwasher safe. I love my set. Works well for presenting foods.
White Dinnerware Sets
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
White mugs a must with white dishes. ❤️❤️. I love coffee and tea. These mugs are my go-to first thing in the morning.
Coffee Mugs
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Simple classic styled glasses. Works for every situation. I love the sturdiness and that they don’t break in the dishwasher.
Glassware & Drinkware
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Basic and simple for kitchenware. At minimum a set for 8 is necessity.  I have a set for 12 and can go through it in 3 days - sometimes 2 depending on what I am doing. You can go really plain or really fancy.  I love how many options there are to pick from. My set is really real plain and dress it up with napkins and table dressings.
Flatware Service for 8 - Mikasa
 
MaryAnn Karp profile picture
Flowers!   I love a hint of flowers with my dinnerware. It goes well with just about any decor.   It keeps it simple with a hint of style. They are washable and reuseable. Perfect for that eco-sense family. (affiliate link)_
Floral Cloth Napkins