As the saying goes, I absolutely believe the kitchen is the heart of the home. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more and more focused on stocking my kitchen with high-quality pieces we’ll use for years to come. This became especially true when we moved into our new build! We spend so much time in the kitchen, and the items below are definitely my favorite and most recommended kitchen essentials.

Crate & Barrel Mercer Plates

Sometimes I’m amazed at just how affordable these plates are considering the design and quality. They’re the perfect balance of modern and artisanal, with a sleek silhouette and absolutely beautiful organic texture. The size is also fantastic! They look right at home on our large dining table.

Le Creuset 5.5 qt Dutch Oven

The Le Creuset dutch oven is one of the universally beloved kitchen essentials for a reason. We recently sized up from to the 5.5 qt to accommodate meals family and friends, and somehow love it even more than before! The heat retention and enamel coating are both quite impressive, and I’m already looking forward to passing it on one day as a family heirloom.

Nespresso Next Coffee & Espresso Maker

We use this machine every day, three times a day, and somehow it’s still going strong. I didn’t expect to be so impressed with it but it really does make delicious coffee. The frother is amazing too! Being such an aesthetically minded person, I also really appreciate their focus on design.

Pyrex Glass Food Storage Set

I much prefer glass food storage to plastic because it’s healthier for you, lasts longer, and also looks better. These containers feel substantial without being heavy, and I particularly love how resistant they are to stains and smells. Of course, I also love the neutral lids! They’re much less distracting than colored ones.

Caraway Ceramic Cookware Set

Caraway cookware is incredibly versatile and this four-piece set has everything you need. It also looks great on the stove or dining table! The magnetic pan racks, fabric lid holder, and cork trivets are such a fantastic bonus. You’ll get everything you need for cooking, storing, and serving in one purchase!

Crate & Barrel Marble Pepper Mill

How stunning is this pepper mill? I can’t get enough of marble, and the soft veining and edges make this piece even more beautiful. The weight is also quite substantial, which adds to the luxuriousness.

Bar Keepers Friend

Bar Keepers Friend is a cult favorite and absolute workhouse. I don’t know how it gets rid of rust, tarnish, grime, and soap scum as easily as it does – it’s truly like magic. Every homeowner and renter needs this in their back pocket. Definitely one of those kitchen essentials you can use elsewhere in your home!

Ruggable Washable Runner

A rug that can be thrown in the wash is truly a million dollar idea, especially for the kitchen. Having something so stylish in our kitchen that’s also incredibly functional has been amazing! Any time we drop or spill something while cooking or cleaning, all I have to do is detach the cover from the pad. Then I throw it into our washer and it comes out good as new!

Anthropologie Tiled Monogram Mug

This is one of my favorite mugs! They’re the perfect size and match our kitchen exactly. The metallic gold adds an extra special touch, as does the monogram. I can think of many people who would love to receive these as a housewarming gift!

Material Kitchen Knife Set

I couldn’t speak more highly about these knives! I love that it’s only a set of three instead of five or more because it’s much more efficient. Each one is incredibly high quality, beautiful, and sharp. One detail I really appreciate is how the blade is continued within the handle instead of simply being on top because they feel much more balanced that way.