Cooking at home doesn't mean you need a million gadgets; you just need the right ones. These are the tools I use day in and day out to test recipes, shoot videos, and get weeknight dinners on the table without stress. I've tried plenty of products over the years, but these are the ones I keep reaching for. If you've ever made a recipe from my site, chances are one of these essentials was in action.
Featured Essentials
Dutch Oven
Sarah's Favorite
Dutch Oven
This is my go-to when making sauces, soups, braised dishes and more! It's the most used item in my kitchen.
Looking for a more budget-friendly option? This Crockpot brand Dutch oven served me well for about 8 years.
Kitchen Knives
Sarah's Favorite
Knives
A sharp, sturdy knife is the difference between struggling with dinner prep and feeling like a pro. I use these every day, whether I'm chopping herbs, slicing meat, or prepping veggies.
Pampered Chef Baking Stones
These baking stones make everything crisp up beautifully - from sheet pan dinners to cookies. My mom has had hers forever, I've had mine for a few years, and they just keep getting better with age. Highly recommend these over traditional cookie sheets/sheet pans!
Cast Iron Skillet
Cast irons are perfect for searing, roasting, or even baking. It gives the best golden crust and only gets better the more you use it.
Food Processor
Sarah's Favorite
Food Processor
The ultimate time-saver. From pesto to breadcrumbs to shredding cheese, it does the work in seconds and saves me so much prep time.
Large Stainless Steel Skillet
Every kitchen needs a sturdy stainless steel pan. Mine was passed down from my Nonna, is practically indestructible and gives a great sear on proteins. It's also a workhorse for quick sautés and one-pan meals.
If you're looking for a modern version of what I grew up cooking with, here are a few I recommend:
- Splurge-worthy: All-Clad D3 14″ Stainless Paella Pan - closest to my Nonna's, with that wide cooking surface and 3-ply construction for even heat.
- Mid-range Option: ZWILLING Spirit 14″ 3-Ply Stainless Pan - sturdy but lighter than All-Clad, easier to maneuver if you don't want something too heavy.
- Budget-friendly: Cuisinart 14″ Skillet w/ Helper Handle - reliable, durable, and roomy without the premium price tag.
Cooking at home is so much easier (and way more fun) when you have a few solid tools you can count on. I hope this list helps you stock your kitchen with items that will serve you just as well.