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Get All the Essential Cookware, Bakeware & Kitchen Tools to Equip Your Kitchen

Get All the Essential Cookware, Bakeware & Kitchen Tools to Equip Your Kitchen

The Best Cookware, Bakeware & Tools for Every Kitchen

Having the right cookware, bakeware and essential tools on hand makes cooking and baking easier and more enjoyable. Outfitting your kitchen with high quality essentials will set you up for success when preparing everything from simple weeknight meals to elaborate holiday feasts.

Cookware

A good set of pots and pans is essential for any home chef. Look for pieces made from materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or hard anodized aluminum that heat evenly and will stand the test of time.

Pots & Pans

  • 12" Skillet - An essential for frying and sautéing
  • 3 qt Sauté Pan - Great for cooking meats, vegetables, and sauces
  • 5 qt Stock Pot - For boiling pasta, making soups and stocks
  • 8 qt Stock Pot - For even bigger batch cooking tasks

Specialty Cookware

  • Double Boiler - For delicate tasks like melting chocolate
  • Grill Pan - Lets you get grill marks and flavor indoors
  • Roasting Pan - Ideal for cooking large cuts of meat and veggies
  • Dutch Oven - Multipurpose vessel great for braising, stewing, baking

Bakeware

Reliable baking sheets, pans, dishes and tins are baking essentials. Look for sturdy pieces made from heavy-gauge metals like aluminum and steel.

Baking Sheets & Pans

  • Rimmed Baking Sheets - Use for cookies, roasting veggies
  • Muffin Tin - Standard 12 cup tin for muffins and cupcakes
  • 9" Round Cake Pans - For layer cakes and cheesecakes
  • 9"x13" Baking Pan - All-purpose pan for cakes, bars, casseroles

Specialty Bakeware

  • Loaf Pan - For baking breads and meatloaves
  • Pie Dish - Essential for baking both sweet and savory pies
  • Tart Pan - For elegant miniature pies and tarts
  • Madeleine Pan - For delicate sponge cakes

Prep Tools & Gadgets

It's also important to stock your kitchen with tools that make prep work easier. Look for high-quality essentials made from durable materials.

Knives & Cutting Boards

  • Chef's Knife - A must for chopping, slicing, and dicing
  • Paring Knife - For detailed work like peeling fruits and vegetables
  • Serrated Bread Knife - Effortless cutting for breads, tomatoes, and more
  • Cutting Board - Choose wood or plastic; avoid glass and marble

Hand Tools

  • Wooden Spoons - Essential for sauteing and stirring
  • Spatulas - For flipping burgers, removing cookies from baking sheets, and more
  • Whisk - To whip, blend, and combine ingredients
  • Tongs - For tossing salads and flipping and serving meat

Measuring Tools

  • Dry Measuring Cups - For measuring flour, sugar, and other dry ingredients
  • Liquid Measuring Cup - Essential for measuring out milk, oil, broth, etc.
  • Measuring Spoons - For measuring small amounts of both dry and wet ingredients
  • Food Scale - Ensures consistent, precise ingredient measurements

Useful Gadgets

  • Box Grater - Shred cheese, vegetables, chocolate, and more
  • Colander - Drain and rinse fruits, vegetables, pasta, and more
  • Kitchen Shears - Quick cutting for meat, herbs, parchment, and other tasks
  • Kitchen Timer - Avoid over or under cooking with a reliable timer

With high quality cookware, reliable bakeware, indispensable kitchen tools, and useful gadgets, you'll have a kitchen stocked for success. Investing in this essential gear makes cooking and baking easier and more enjoyable.

Pots, Pans & Skillets - The Essential Cookware for Every Kitchen

A quality set of pots, pans and skillets is essential cookware for any home kitchen. Having the right selection allows you to braise, sear, simmer, sauté, bake and more with ease. Choose versatile pieces made from durable materials that heat evenly and will last for years.

Materials

Pots and pans are typically made from metals like aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron or copper. Each has its pros and cons:

  • Aluminum - Heats quickly and evenly, but can react with acidic foods. Best when coated or anodized.
  • Stainless Steel - Durable and non-reactive. Can take longer to heat and hotspots can develop.
  • Cast Iron - Heats evenly once hot. Seasoning required. Can be heavy.
  • Copper - Excellent conduction and heat control. Requires tin or stainless lining.

Skillets & Frying Pans

Skillets and frying pans are ideal for quick cooking techniques like sautéing, searing, frying and more. Choose a sloped skillet for tossing food or a flat frying pan for cooking in oil.

  • 8" or 10" skillet - perfect for cooking eggs, heating smaller portions
  • 12" skillet - the most versatile size for daily cooking tasks
  • 14" skillet - extra room for cooking main dishes
  • Non-stick coating - makes cleanup easier

Tips for Skillets & Frying Pans

  • Allow pan to preheat before adding oil or food
  • Use metal utensils to prolong non-stick coating life
  • Deglaze pan with wine or broth to make flavorful sauce
  • Choose oven-safe models to finish cooking in oven

Saucepans

Saucepans with tall straight sides are perfect for simmering sauces, cooking grains and boiling vegetables or eggs. Choose sizes based on your common cooking tasks.

  • 1-2 qt - heating canned sauces, cooking grains
  • 3-4 qt - preparing stocks, soups and chili
  • 5-6 qt - cooking pasta, blanching vegetables
  • Lids - essential for simmering, poaching, steaming

Tips for Saucepans

  • Bring liquids to a boil before adding food
  • Use a lid for even cooking and to conserve energy
  • Simmer gently once liquid is boiling
  • Consider saucepans with pour spouts for easier serving

Stock & Soup Pots

Large stock pots with 8-12 quart capacity are ideal for preparing soups and stocks in quantity, boiling pasta, seafood, and more. Handy features include:

  • Thick, evenly conducting base
  • Measurement markings inside pot
  • Pour spouts or ladle handles for serving
  • Strainer insert to remove solids from broth

Tips for Stock & Soup Pots

  • Simmer stock for 4-8 hours to extract maximum flavor
  • Use a thermometer if deep frying
  • Fill water 2/3 full for pasta to allow room for stirring
  • Rinse pasta with cold water after boiling to stop cooking

Specialty Cookware

In addition to basic pots and pans, specialty pieces like grill pans, woks, dutch ovens and more allow you to expand your culinary techniques.

  • Grill pan - Impart grill marks and flavor when cooking indoors
  • Wok - Required for quick, high-heat stir-frying
  • Steamer - Insert stacks or a dedicated steamer to cook healthy
  • Dutch oven - Great for braising, stewing, baking and more

With a set of durable, quality pots, pans and skillets made from materials that heat evenly, you'll be fully equipped to fry, sauté, simmer, boil and more.

Baking Sheets, Pans & Dishes - Essentials for Every Oven

Having a set of reliable baking sheets, pans, and dishes is essential for any baker. These workhorse pans allow you to prepare everything from cookies and cakes to casseroles and roasts. Choose heavy-gauge pans made from materials like aluminum, steel, glass and ceramic that heat evenly and won't warp.

Baking Sheets

Rimmed baking sheets with a 1" edge are among the most versatile pans. Standard sizes include:

  • Half sheet pan - 18" x 13"
  • Quarter sheet pan - 9" x 13"
  • Jellyroll pan - Approximately 10" x 15"

Use for baking cookies, roasting vegetables, broiling meat, toasting nuts and more. Many have a nonstick coating for easy cleanup.

Tips for Baking Sheets

  • Allow pan to fully preheat before baking
  • Line with parchment paper or silicone mat for easy release
  • Avoid excessive greasing which can cause baked goods to spread
  • Rotate pans mid-way through baking for even results

Cake Pans

For baking cakes, cheesecakes and more, round and square cake pans are essential. Standard options include:

  • 8" or 9" round pans - For layer cakes and tortes
  • 9"x13" rectangular pan - For sheet cakes and bar cookies
  • 6" or 8" square pan - Alternate shape to round pans
  • Springform pan - For delicate cakes like cheesecake

Tips for Cake Pans

  • Grease pan and line bottom with parchment for easy release
  • Allow cakes to cool completely before removing from pan
  • Cut rounded cakes horizontally to create flat layers
  • Chill cheesecakes before removing springform ring

Loaf Pans

For baking loaves of quick breads, banana breads, meatloaves and more, aluminum loaf pans are a must. Standard sizes include:

  • 8.5" x 4.5" x 2.5" - For standard quick breads and small loaves
  • 9" x 5" x 3" - Larger size for bigger recipes and meatloaves

Tips for Loaf Pans

  • Allow loaves to cool completely before removing from pan
  • Grease pan and dust with flour for easy release
  • Bake meatloaves on a baking sheet to catch drips
  • Let breads sit for 5-10 minutes before removing from pan

Muffin Tins & Cupcake Pans

For muffins, cupcakes and more, muffin tins and cupcake pans create the classic shape. Options include:

  • 12-cup standard muffin tin
  • 6-cup jumbo muffin tin
  • 24-cup mini muffin tin
  • 12-cup cupcake pan

Tips for Muffin Tins & Cupcake Pans

  • Grease wells generously or line with papers
  • Fill tins 2/3 to 3/4 full for best rise
  • Rotate pan midway through baking
  • Cool slightly before removing baked goods

Casserole Dishes

For baking casseroles, gratins, and other baked dishes, oval and rectangular glass or ceramic baking dishes allow you to both cook and serve in the same vessel. Consider sizes including:

  • 1.5 qt dish - For smaller casseroles and side dishes
  • 2-3 qt dish - For family-sized casseroles and gratins

Tips for Casserole Dishes

  • Some may be broiler safe for easy browning
  • Preheat dish when baking to prevent cracking
  • Let cool slightly before serving
  • Ceramic holds heat well for serving

With this essential bakeware on hand, from baking sheets and pans to muffin tins and casserole dishes, you'll be ready to bake all your favorite recipes. Invest in durable, quality pieces for reliable results.

Measuring Cups & Spoons - Essential Tools for Baking Success

Having a reliable set of measuring cups and spoons is essential for accurate recipe prep and consistent baking results. Invest in quality tools made from durable materials like stainless steel.

Dry Measuring Cups

Dry measuring cups are used to measure dry ingredients like flour, sugar, oats, etc. A standard set includes:

  • 1/4 cup
  • 1/3 cup
  • 1/2 cup
  • 1 cup

Choose sturdy cups that won't bend or warp over time. Stainless steel is ideal. Key tips for using:

  • Spoon ingredient into cup and level off top with knife or spatula for an accurate measure.
  • Never dip measuring cup into ingredient bin - this packs ingredient and leads to too much.
  • For flour, spoon into cup and level off by sweeping off excess.

Example

When making chocolate chip cookies, scoop the flour into the 1 cup measure and level off the top. Don't tap or shake the cup, which can compress the flour. 1 level cup of flour weighs approximately 120g.

Liquid Measuring Cup

A clear liquid measuring cup with pour spout allows you to accurately measure out liquids like milk, water, oil, etc. Standard sizes are:

  • 2 cup
  • 4 cup

Look for clear, graded cups for easy reading. Key tips for using:

  • Place cup on flat surface and view at eye level for accuracy.
  • Add liquid to desired measurement line, allowing the meniscus to settle.
  • Pour out carefully to avoid spilling.

Example

When making a cake, pour milk into the 2 cup measuring cup, allowing the milk to settle before reading the measurement at eye level. 1 cup of milk weighs approximately 240g.

Measuring Spoons

Measuring spoons allow you to precisely measure small amounts of both dry and wet ingredients. A standard set includes:

  • 1/4 teaspoon
  • 1/2 teaspoon
  • 1 teaspoon
  • 1 tablespoon

Look for a ring design that connects all the spoons for convenience.

Tips for Measuring Spoons

  • Dip into dry ingredients like spices, baking powder, etc.
  • Use to scoop sticky ingredients like honey, molasses, peanut butter.
  • Level off with a knife or finger for accuracy.
  • Clean spoons fully between ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.

Example

When making oatmeal cookies, use the 1/2 tsp measure to precisely measure the baking soda. Level off for an accurate 1/2 tsp which weighs approximately 2.5g.

Investing in a quality set of measuring cups and spoons ensures you have the essential tools you need for accurate recipe prep and consistent results every time you bake. With the right measures on hand, you'll be on your way to baking success.

Knives & Cutting Boards - Essential Food Prep Tools

Having a set of quality knives and cutting boards makes food prep safer, easier and more efficient. Invest in the essential knives for chopping, slicing, paring and more along with durable cutting boards suited to different tasks.

Essential Knives

At a minimum, every home cook needs:

  • Chef's Knife - An 8-10 inch chef's knife handles the majority of cutting tasks.
  • Paring Knife - A 3-4 inch paring knife for detailed work like peeling.
  • Serrated Knife - Ideal for slicing breads, tomatoes and other delicate foods.

High carbon stainless steel blades retain sharpness. Look for a full tang and triple riveted handle for durability.

Knife Safety Tips

  • Cut on a stable cutting board at a comfortable height
  • Keep the knife sharpened for clean cuts
  • Always cut away from yourself
  • Store properly in a knife block or sheath

Example

Use a chef's knife to quickly chop onions, mince garlic, slice bell peppers into strips and chop cilantro for homemade salsa. Use the paring knife to peel and cut limes.

Cutting Boards

The main cutting board materials are:

  • Wood - Softer woods like maple are gentle on knife edges. Naturally antimicrobial.
  • Plastic - Polyethylene plastic withstands dishwasher cleaning. More budget-friendly.
  • Bamboo - Durable yet gentle on knives. Naturally antimicrobial.

Choose at least two boards - one for produce, one for raw meats - to prevent cross-contamination.

Cutting Board Tips

  • Thoroughly wash boards after each use
  • Sanitize with diluted bleach or vinegar solution
  • Allow wooden boards to fully dry before storing
  • Replace boards with excessive scoring or stains

Example

Use a plastic board for cutting raw chicken which can be safely run through the dishwasher after use. Use a wooden board for slicing bread, vegetables and other items that will not require sanitizing after each use.

Specialty Boards & Tools

Consider adding:

  • Carving board - For larger roasts, turkeys, hams
  • Pastry board - For rolling doughs; lightly floured surface
  • Cutting mat - For pastry; measures 24 x 16 inches
  • Mandoline - For super thin, even slices

Proper knives and cutting boards suited to the task make prep safer and easier. Invest in quality tools and follow safe handling practices.

Kitchen Gadgets & Tools - Useful Equipment for Every Cook

Kitchen gadgets and tools make cooking tasks easier and expand the techniques you can use. Useful gadgets include peelers, graters, timers and more. Invest in quality gadgets that are truly helpful, not just trendy.

Peelers

Peelers quickly remove skins from fruits and vegetables. Types include:

  • Swivel peeler - Classic style with swiveling double-edged blade.
  • Y peeler - Shaped like a Y with a swiveling blade.
  • Julienne peeler - Creates thin strips for julienne slicing.

Look for sharp, stainless steel blades that glide smoothly. Peel tricky produce like tomatoes easily after blanching.

Example

Use a Y peeler to peel apples for a pie, zucchini for quick bread or cucumbers for a salad. Ajulienne peeler makes vegetable noodles from zucchini or carrots.

Graters

Graters transform solid foods into fine bits or shreds. Common types are:

  • Box grater - Fine grating to thick shreds on 4 sides.
  • Microplane - Ultra-fine grating blade ideal for citrus zest or hard cheeses.
  • Mandoline - Adjustable blades for super-fine to thick shreds.

Look for sharp grating surfaces that won't rust. Hand protectors increase safety.

Example

Use a box grater to shred cabbage for coleslaw, grate hard cheeses for pasta, or grate chocolate for desserts. A Microplane zests lemons or grates whole nutmeg.

Kitchen Shears

Sturdy kitchen shears are useful for:

  • Cutting meat and poultry
  • Snipping fresh herbs
  • Cutting parchment and packaging
  • Trimming vegetables

Look for stainless steel blades with a safety lock. Come apart for easy cleaning. Useful for both right and left-handed cooks.

Example

Use shears to cleanly cut chicken into pieces, chop fresh cilantro or basil, or open stubborn packaging. Rinse and air dry after each use.

Kitchen Timers

A reliable kitchen timer prevents under or overcooking. Options include:

  • Digital timer - Easy to set and read LCD display.
  • Mechanical timer - Wind-up style; can be loud when goes off.
  • Smart display - Displays time and sets multiple timers.

Look for easy to use controls and loud enough alarm. Use multiple timers for longer recipes.

Example

Use a digital timer when baking cookies - set for 10-12 minutes so they don't burn. Use a smart display to time steaks on the grill and side dishes simultaneously.

Quality kitchen gadgets like peelers, graters, shears and timers make cooking easier and expand your culinary skills. Choose durable, genuinely useful tools that make meal prep safer and more efficient.

Here are the most popular cookware brands in the Cookware, Bakeware & Tools category:

  1. All-Clad
  2. Calphalon
  3. Caraway
  4. Made In
  5. Le Creuset
  6. Lodge
  7. Cuisinart
  8. T-fal
  9. Anolon
  10. GreenPan
  11. Rachael Ray
  12. Zwilling J.A. Henckels
  13. Scanpan
  14. Misen
  15. Great Jones

These brands are known for their high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and innovation. They offer a wide range of cookware products, including pots, pans, bakeware, and knives, among others. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, these brands have something to offer for everyone.

What Is The Best Quality Cookware Brands?

After researching various sources, here are some of the best quality cookware brands:

  1. All-Clad
  2. Made In
  3. Le Creuset
  4. Calphalon
  5. Cuisinart
  6. Lodge
  7. T-fal
  8. Anolon
  9. GreenPan

These brands are known for their high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and innovation. They offer a wide range of cookware products, including pots, pans, bakeware, and knives, among others. All-Clad is known for its exceptional stainless steel and aluminum-clad pots and pans, while Made In offers professional-quality pots and pans without the sky-high price tag. Le Creuset is known for its colorful enameled cast iron cookware, while Calphalon offers a wide range of non-stick cookware. Cuisinart is known for its affordable and high-quality cookware, while Lodge is known for its cast iron cookware. T-fal offers affordable non-stick cookware, while Anolon offers a range of high-quality non-stick cookware. GreenPan is known for its ceramic non-stick cookware that is free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium.


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