If I Were Starting My Kitchen From Scratch, This Is Everything I’d Buy First

Let me just say it straight: you do not need 14 spatulas, a mini waffle maker, and three novelty mugs to have a well functioning kitchen. If I were starting from scratch today (no clutter, no random gadgets, no hand me downs), these are the kitchen basics I’d buy first. And yes, they’re all stylish enough to leave out, affordable enough to add to cart without flinching, and practical enough to earn a permanent spot.

Whether you're a new homeowner, a newlywed, or just ready to do a minimalist reset, this list cuts the fluff and focuses on the real MVPs. Let’s get into it.

Kitchen Essentials I’d Buy First

1. The Everyday Nonstick Pan
If I could only pick one pan, it’s this. Big enough for stir fry, nonstick enough for eggs, and cute enough to leave on the stove. This Carote pan gets used daily and still looks new.

2. A Big Pot for All the Things
Soup, pasta, steaming veggies—it does it all. I went with an 8 quart stainless option that can handle meal prep or just boiling water for mac and cheese.

3. A Cutting Board That Can Sit Out
Oversized and wooden, because it’s both useful and looks great against the backsplash. This bamboo board doubles as decor.

4. Heat Proof Silicone Utensils
Toss those mismatched plastic things. This neutral utensil set won’t melt, scratch, or ruin your vibe.

5. A Chef’s Knife + Sharpener
You need a knife that actually cuts. Just one good one. Add a basic sharpener and skip the overpriced knife block.

DINNERWARE + DRINKING BASICS

6. One Beautiful Set of Dishes
Simple white stoneware goes with everything. These feel hefty without being bulky and can go from microwave to dinner party with no shame.

7. A Set of “Grown Up” Glasses
No freebie plastic cups. These ribbed drinking glasses feel high end but are under $30.

8. Flatware That Matches
Gold, matte black, brushed silver—pick your aesthetic and commit. This 45 piece set makes every meal feel intentional.

9. Mugs You Love (and Use)
Not 12 novelty mugs. Just four cozy mugs, minimal ones you’ll actually reach for. I love stoneware with texture and weight.

FUNCTIONAL STORAGE THAT LOOKS GOOD

10. Clear Airtight Pantry Containers
Label them, stack them, stare at them like your life is together. This matching set keeps cereal, oats, and rice fresh and photogenic.

11. Stackable Glass Leftover Containers
Ditch the stained plastic. These glass meal prep bowls are microwave safe, and the lids actually click closed.

12. Under Sink Organizer
This under sink organizer is a game changer. It turns the Bermuda Triangle under your sink into something that actually makes sense.

A FEW VIBEY EXTRAS

13. Cushioned Kitchen Rug
I used to stand on cold tile. Not anymore. This chenille runner is washable, cushy, and totally worth the $30.

14. A Tiny Countertop Lamp
Yes, a lamp in the kitchen. It changes everything. Cozy lighting while you’re washing dishes is a whole new level of self care.

15. Matching Soap Dispensers
Skip the ugly plastic bottles. This amber glass pump elevates the sink instantly; bonus points if you add custom labels if you use more than one.

Final Thoughts

You really don’t need everything at once. But if you're outfitting a kitchen from scratch, this is the lineup I'd trust. Every item here works hard, looks good, and won’t end up in a donation box six months from now.

PS: I personally love every pick here. Some links are affiliate, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s what helps keep Cozy Curated Home running.

Shop Smart. Style Intentionally. Cook Often.