18 First Apartment Kitchen Essentials
Moving into your first apartment is a thrilling adventure! But that excitement can hit a wall when you stare into an empty kitchen. This post equips you with the essential kitchen tools to whip up anything from scrambled eggs to celebratory feasts.
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Index
- How do I organize my kitchen in a new apartment?
- Dinnerware essentials for your first apartment kitchen
- How to stock a kitchen with the right equipment?
- Our list of 18 essential kitchen necessities
- 1. Good quality frying pan
- 2. Saucepan with lid
- 3. Cutting board and sharp knives
- 4. Mixing bowls
- 5. Toaster
- 6. Coffee maker or kettle
- 7. Can opener
- 8. Peeler
- 9. Measuring cups and spoons
- 10. Colander or strainer
- 11. Set of plates and bowls
- 12. Drinking glasses
- 13. Mugs
- 14. Flatware set
- 15. Wooden spoons
- 16. Box grater
- 17. Baking supplies
- 18. Food storage containers
How do I organize my kitchen in a new apartment?
Moving into a new apartment is exciting, but an empty kitchen can feel daunting. Before you dive into fancy gadgets and decor, take a step back and focus on organization.
Here’s the first key question to ask yourself:
How will I use my kitchen?
This might seem simple, but it’s the foundation for a well-organized space.
Consider your cooking habits:
- Do you whip up elaborate meals nightly, or are you a master of quick and easy dishes?
- Do you entertain frequently, or is your kitchen a solo operation?
- Do you have limited counter space, or do you have ample room to spread out?
By understanding your cooking style and space limitations, you can create an organizational system that works for you.
RELATED: Complete Pantry Organization Guide
Here’s a roadmap to creating a functional and efficient storage system:
The “Golden Triangle” Principle
Imagine a triangle connecting your sink, stovetop, and refrigerator. This is your “golden triangle”. Frequently used items like pots, pans, utensils, and dishes should be stored within easy reach of this work zone.
Accessibility Matters
Think about how often you use an item. Daily essentials like plates, bowls, and cutlery should be placed in lower cabinets or drawers for easy access. Less frequently used items like serving platters or holiday dishes can be stored on higher shelves.
Leverage Vertical Space
Don’t underestimate the power of vertical storage! Utilize cabinet risers, hanging pot racks, or wall-mounted shelves to maximize space and keep countertops clear.
Categorize and Contain
Group similar items together in cabinets, drawers, or clear containers. This makes it easier to find what you need and keeps things organized. For example, dedicate a drawer to cooking utensils, a cabinet to spices, and a pantry shelf to canned goods.
Utilize Lazy Susans or Turntables
These rotating platforms are lifesavers for deep cabinets or corner shelves. They bring hidden items to the forefront, preventing forgotten treasures in the back.
Pro Tip: Label Everything! Clear labels on shelves and containers make it easy for everyone (including you!) to find what they need and return items to their designated spots.
Dinnerware Essentials for Your First Apartment Kitchen
Now that you’ve tackled the organization of your first apartment kitchen, let’s set the table! When it comes to dishes, quality over quantity is key, especially with limited space. Living solo doesn’t mean skimping on style!
Here’s a breakdown of the essential dishes you’ll need for everyday meals without sacrificing functionality in your limited space:
The Core Collection (2-4 settings are ideal)
Dinner Plates (2-4)
Choose a versatile size around 10 inches in diameter. This works for most meals and leaves room for leftovers.
Bowls (2-4)
Opt for multi-purpose bowls in the 16-20 ounce range. Perfect for cereal, pasta, soups, or even prepping ingredients.
Dinner plate and bowl set
AmorArc Ceramic Dinner Set
Milkyway dinnerware Set
Japanese Dinnerware Set
Mugs (2-4)
Select mugs (around 12-16 ounces) you enjoy using for your morning coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
famiware Coffee Mugs
Glass Coffee Mugs
Double Wall Glass Mugs
Glass Coffee Mugs
Cutlery (2-4 settings)
Invest in good quality forks, knives, spoons, and teaspoons.
Bonus Dishes (Consider your preferences)
Salad Plate (1)
Handy for side salads or smaller meals.
Soup Bowl (1)
Perfect for enjoying a cozy soup or stew.
Material Matters
Durability
Consider your lifestyle. Opt for sturdier materials like stoneware or tempered glass if you’re accident-prone.
Microwavable
Choose microwave-safe dishes for reheating leftovers.
Dishwasher-Safe
Prioritize dishwasher-safe options for easy cleaning, especially if you’re short on time.
Infuse your personality! Mix and match colors, patterns, or textures to create a unique table setting that reflects your taste. Solo dining doesn’t have to be boring!
Remember: You can always add more dishes later. Start with a core collection and expand as your needs or hosting desires evolve. With a well-chosen set of dishes, your solo kitchen will be ready to create delicious meals and enjoyable dining experiences.
How to stock a kitchen with the right equipment?
Conquering the initial chaos, strategically placing your essentials, and having the right dishes are all crucial steps to a functional first-apartment kitchen.
Living solo doesn’t mean sacrificing delicious meals or culinary creativity!
Here’s a guide to stocking your kitchen with the right equipment for a single person’s culinary adventures:
1. Know Your Cooking Style
Are you a breakfast smoothie enthusiast? A weeknight stir-fry champion? A weekend baking hobbyist? Identifying your solo cooking habits will help you prioritize the equipment you’ll use most.
2. The Essential Trio
These three tools are the workhorses of any kitchen, solo or not:
Sharp Chef’s Knife
A good 8-inch chef’s knife can handle most chopping, slicing, and dicing tasks. Invest in quality – a sharp knife is safer and more efficient.
Non-Stick Skillet
Perfect for everything from frying eggs to searing meats and vegetables. Choose a size that suits your cooking style (10-12 inches is a good starting point).
Small Pot or Saucepan
Ideal for boiling pasta, simmering sauces, or heating leftovers. Look for a size around 1-2 quarts.
3. Smart Additions for Solo Cooks
Here are some additional tools that can be particularly helpful for solo cooking:
Immersion Blender
This versatile tool can blend soups, sauces, and even whip up mayonnaise directly in the pot, saving you from cleaning a full-size blender.
Microwave with Grill Function
A microwave with a grill setting allows you to reheat leftovers and cook quick, healthy meals efficiently.
Small Food Processor
Perfect for chopping vegetables, nuts, or herbs, saving you time and effort on prep work.
4. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Focus on high-quality, multi-functional tools over a large collection of single-use gadgets. A good spatula, whisk, and set of tongs will cover most cooking needs.
5. Embrace Space-Saving Solutions
Living solo often means limited cabinet space. Utilize hanging pot racks, drawer organizers, and stackable containers to maximize storage and keep your kitchen clutter-free.
6. Thrifting Treasures
Don’t underestimate the power of thrift stores and garage sales! You can find affordable, high-quality kitchenware that fits your budget and adds a touch of personality.
7. Read Online Reviews
Research online reviews before splurging on an appliance. This can help you choose reliable and user-friendly tools for your solo culinary adventures.
Remember: Your kitchen should be a place of exploration and enjoyment. With the right tools and a touch of creativity, you’ll be whipping up delicious meals and having fun in the kitchen, even when cooking for one!
Our list of 18 essential kitchen necessities
1. A Good Quality Frying Pan
A good quality frying pan is a workhorse in any kitchen, no matter if you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner. It’s versatile and can be used for a variety of cooking techniques, from searing steaks to frying eggs to sauteing vegetables.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a good quality frying pan:
Material
There are three main materials for frying pans: stainless steel, cast iron, and non-stick.
Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and can be used on all cooktops, including induction. However, it can be difficult to achieve a non-stick surface and requires a bit more care when cooking.
Cast iron is also very durable and can handle high heat. It seasons over time, creating a non-stick surface. However, cast iron pans are heavy and can be slow to heat up.
Non-stick pans are a popular choice because they are easy to cook with and clean up. However, the non-stick coating can eventually scratch or wear off, and they should not be used over high heat.
Size
The size of your frying pan will depend on your needs. A 10- to 12-inch pan is a good all-purpose size.
Weight
A heavier pan will retain heat better, but it can also be more difficult to maneuver.
Heat source
Make sure the pan you choose is compatible with your cooktop.
Lodge 12 inch skillet
T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan
2. Saucepan with a Lid
A saucepan with a lid is another essential item for any kitchen, solo or not. It’s a versatile pot that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as boiling pasta, simmering sauces, and heating soups.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a saucepan with a lid:
Material
Similar to frying pans, saucepans come in various materials:
Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and can be used on all cooktops, including induction. However, it may not distribute heat as evenly as some other materials.
Enameled cast iron is another good choice for a saucepan. It heats up evenly and retains heat well. Enameled cast iron pans are also relatively easy to clean.
Cuisinart 1.5 Quart Saucepan
Hamilton Beach Enameled Cast Iron Sauce Pan
Size
The size of your saucepan will depend on your needs. A 2- to 3-quart saucepan is a good all-purpose size.
Lid
Look for a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. This will help to trap heat and moisture, which is important for simmering and boiling.
3. Cutting Board and Sharp Knives
A good cutting board and sharp knives are the dynamic duo of any kitchen. They work together to make food prep a breeze, saving you time and frustration.
Here’s what you need to consider when choosing these essential tools:
Cutting Boards
There are two main options:
Plastic: Affordable, lightweight, and dishwasher safe. However, they can show knife marks more easily and may not be as durable as wood.
Wood: More expensive than plastic, but beautiful, durable, and gentler on knives. Choose hardwood options like maple or walnut for longevity.
ROYAL CRAFT WOOD Wooden Cutting Boards
Cutting Boards for Kitchen BPA Free
Sharp Knives
Invest in Quality: A good knife will stay sharper longer, making it safer and more efficient to use.
Start with a Chef’s Knife: This versatile knife is your workhorse for most chopping, slicing, and dicing tasks. An 8-inch chef’s knife is a good all-purpose size.
Sharpening is Key: Even the best knives need to be sharpened regularly. Invest in a good sharpening steel or learn how to use a whetstone.
Japanese Chef Knife
Knife Sharpener
4. Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are the unsung heroes of the kitchen. They’re essential for everything from whipping up a batch of pancake batter to tossing a salad.
Here’s a guide to selecting the perfect mixing bowls for your solo kitchen:
Material Matters
Stainless Steel: Durable, easy to clean, and won’t stain or absorb odors. However, they can be a bit noisy when whisking and show scratches over time.
Glass: Affordable, easy to clean, and allows you to see the contents of the bowl while mixing. However, glass bowls can be heavy and prone to breakage.
Plastic: Lightweight, affordable, and come in a variety of colors. However, plastic bowls can scratch and warp over time, and some may not be dishwasher-safe.
Nesting vs. Individual Bowls
Nesting Bowls: These bowls come in different sizes that fit inside each other, saving cabinet space. Ideal for solo cooks with limited storage.
Individual Bowls: Offer more flexibility in size selection, but can take up more cabinet space.
Size Considerations (for Solo Kitchens)
Small Bowl (1-2 quarts): Perfect for whisking eggs, mixing salad dressings, or preparing small batches of dips.
Medium Bowl (2-3 quarts): A versatile size for mixing pancake batter, tossing a salad, or marinating meats.
Large Bowl (optional) (4-5 quarts): Great for making large batches of dough or popcorn, but not essential for solo cooking.
Pyrex Mixing Bowl Set
Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set
5. Toaster
When it comes to toasters for your solo kitchen, there are a few key factors to consider:
Space Efficiency
Solo living often means limited counter space. Look for a compact 2-slice toaster that won’t dominate your countertop.
Functionality
Basic toasting is essential, but consider features that suit your needs. Do you want defrost and reheat settings? A wider slot for bagels or thick bread?
Budget
Toasters come in a variety of price points. Determine how much you’re comfortable spending and choose features that align with your budget.
Mueller Retro Toaster
GE 2 Slice Stainless Steel Toaster
6. Coffee Maker or Kettle
Ah, the age-old debate: coffee maker or kettle for your solo kitchen?
Both have their merits, and the best choice depends on your coffee habits and priorities.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
The Coffee Maker
Convenience: Coffee makers are incredibly convenient. Simply add coffee grounds and water, press a button, and enjoy a fresh pot of coffee.
Variety: Many coffee makers offer different brewing options, like strength settings or programmable brewing times.
Multiple Servings: Great if you occasionally have guests or enjoy having leftover coffee for iced coffee later.
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker
BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Digital Coffee Maker
The Electric Kettle
Compact: Kettles are small and take up minimal counter space, perfect for solo kitchens.
Versatility: Beyond coffee, kettles can be used for boiling water for tea, instant soups, or oatmeal.
Speed: Kettles heat water quickly, so you can enjoy your coffee faster.
Minimal Cleaning: Easy to clean, often just requiring a wipe down.
Bodum 27oz Gooseneck Kettle
Amazon Basics Electric Glass and Steel Kettle
7. Can Opener
A can opener, a humble yet indispensable kitchen tool, effortlessly transforms sealed cans into accessible ingredients, ensuring your culinary creations are limited only by your imagination.
Its simple design belies its significance, making it a must-have for every kitchen, especially in your first apartment.
KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Can Opener
8. Peeler
A peeler, a sleek kitchen sidekick, effortlessly strips away the outer layers of fruits and vegetables, making food preparation a swift and satisfying task.
Its ergonomic design and sharp blade simplify the process, adding ease to your cooking adventures in your first apartment.
OXO Swivel Vegetable Peeler
9. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Equipping your solo kitchen for measuring success is simple! Focus on a core collection of measuring cups (1-cup, 1/2-cup, 1/4-cup) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1/4 teaspoon).
Nesting options save space, and plastic or stainless steel are common choices.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
10. Colander or Strainer
The choice between a colander and strainer depends on what you’re trying to achieve:
Colander: Ideal for draining large quantities of liquids from solid foods like pasta, vegetables, or canned goods. It has larger holes that allow water to flow through quickly.
Strainer: Perfect for separating smaller solids from liquids. It has a fine mesh that catches things like tea leaves, fruit pulp, or tiny grains like quinoa.
Stainless Steel Colander
Cuisinart Mesh Strainers
11. Set of Plates and Bowls
Living solo doesn’t have to mean skimping on style or functionality when it comes to dishes!
Here’s the perfect dinnerware set for your culinary adventures:
Plates (4): Choose 10-inch plates that offer a good balance for most meals. You won’t need a massive set, and this size ensures you have enough for leftovers or the occasional guest.
Bowls (4): Opt for versatile bowls around 16-20 ounces. These will be perfect for cereal, pasta, soups, salads, or even quick snacks.
Nebula 4 Pieces Dinner Plates
Nebula Bowls Set
12. Drinking Glasses
Kick back and enjoy your solo meals in style! Two versatile glasses (12-16 ounces) are perfect for water, juice, or even a casual evening drink. Choose highball or tumbler styles for their all-purpose functionality.
NETANY Drinking Glasses
Elegant Glass Set
13. Mugs
Curl up with a mug that speaks to your soul! In a solo kitchen, a 12-16 ounce mug is your perfect coffee (or tea!) companion.
Choose ceramic for a classic feel and heat retention, or opt for stainless steel for on-the-go durability.
Ceramic Large Latte Mug Set
Hasense Mug Set
14. Flatware Set
Ditch the bulky utensil drawers! In a solo kitchen, focus on a streamlined flatware set for a more special dining experience.
A 4-piece set with a dinner fork, knife, spoon, and (optional) teaspoon is perfect for tackling most meals. Invest in quality stainless steel for durability and ease of cleaning, or explore black or colored options for a personal touch.
Oneida 20-Piece set
Gold Silverware Set
15. Wooden Spoons
The humble wooden spoon: a workhorse in any kitchen, but especially valuable in a solo cook’s space. Its gentle touch protects nonstick surfaces while stirring sauces or mixing batters.
Unlike metal, it won’t scratch your precious pots and pans. Plus, the natural wood adds a touch of warmth and rustic charm to your solo kitchen adventures.
Bamboo Wooden Spoons
16. Box Grater
The box grater, a humble yet mighty tool, is a workhorse for shredding and grating a variety of ingredients in your solo kitchen.
Imagine fluffy parmesan cheese blanketing your pasta, refreshing citrus zest brightening up your cake, or perfectly grated zucchini for a light and healthy stir-fry – the box grater makes all these culinary feats possible!
Spring Chef Professional Cheese Grater
17. Baking Supplies
While baking may seem daunting in a solo kitchen, fear not! With a few essential tools, you can whip up delicious single-serving treats or conquer layer cake ambitions.
Here’s your baking supply starter pack:
Springform Baking Pan
Silicone Spatula Set
Muffin Tin
Cooling racks
Unbleached Parchment Paper
Whisks
18. Food Storage Containers
Airtight containers in various sizes keep dry goods fresh and organized. Stackable options maximize space, while stylish canisters showcase staples on the counter.
Leftovers and prepped ingredients find their home in stackable, microwave-safe food storage containers.
Airtight Food Storage containers – 6 pack
24 Piece container set
