10 Essentials for the Millennial Kitchen

From small space-friendly tools to staples you'll use for years to come, every adult kitchen needs these basic items.

Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money off these affiliate links. Learn more.
October 06, 2021

If you're new to having your own kitchen or just need to update your basics (maybe it's been years, or maybe you have recently realized your kitchen isn't as stocked as you'd like) — here are some essentials for the millennial kitchen. They range from updated essentials to staples that continue to stand the test of time because the goal is to have sturdy, long-lasting products that do exactly the job you need to. Find your new favorite kitchen products below.

This pretty pan claims to be a do-it-all wonder tool designed to replace eight different traditional pieces of cookware, including a fry pan, sauté pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, saucepan, non-stick pan and more. Basically, it’s all you need to cook just about anything.

$12.77

If you’re working with limited counter space, baking racks can be really inconvenient, especially if you're baking a number of things at once. This three-tier cooling rack allows you to triple your cooling space without a bigger footprint. The magic doesn’t stop there. When you’re done, it folds flat so storage is a breeze.

$11.95

These silicone, collapsible measuring cups and spoons work with liquids and solids — plus, they'll barely take up any space in your drawers because they can lay completely flat. This set of eight is easy to clean and is BPA-free, and they'll make sure your baking and cooking measurements are accurate.

$23.79 (Set of 14)

This incredibly heat-resistant, versatile set of silicone cooking tools won't scratch pans and includes everything you need to stock your kitchen: a spatula, slotted spoon, soup ladle, tongs, whisk and more. Plus, it even comes with a holder to keep them all organized on the countertop.

$24.99 (Set of 3)

These glass containers are more eco-friendly than plastic and will be a must-have to store leftovers and meal prep for busy weekdays. These have dividers, secure locking lids and the bases can be warmed up or frozen (and are dishwasher-safe).

$26.68 $18

If the thought of cast-iron cookware scares you, let us convince you otherwise. Sure, cleaning and seasoning might take a little extra work, but we have a great video that is sure to make you a pro. A seasoned cast-iron skillet will revolutionize the way you make everything, from pound cake to filet mignon. This top-rated cast-iron skillet has more than 81,000 reviews on Amazon.

$42.99

This coffeemaker comes in a beautiful matte-black finish and is the most convenient way to make a larger pot of coffee in no time at all. Its showerhead brews a full pot much like a pour-over, and the stainless-steel filter means you never have to spend a dime on filters again. It makes 12 cups at once, is programmable up to 24 hours in advance and makes coffee in six minutes.

$18.39

There's nothing more quintessential to your kitchen than a practical but pretty charcuterie board. Not only will this board bring out your inner charcuterie fiend, but it also doubles as an ultra-useful cutting board for any day of the week. With existing grooves, you won't be second-guessing where to place your crackers, cheese and meats. Trust us, you need this multi-use cutting board in your life ASAP.

$12.45 (Set of 2)

Instead of wasting money and paper on parchment to keep food from sticking, try these silicone mats instead. They're infinitely reusable and have so many functions: prevent cookies from sticking without having to grease the pan, roast vegetables or bake chicken to crispy perfection. They fit any half-size sheet pan, and they're made from materials that help promote even baking so nothing will get burnt.

$9.99

This three-in-one tool does it all for your favorite fruit: The knife easily cuts the avocado, the center pulls out the pit with ease and the slicer at the bottom creates uniform pieces for a beautiful presentation. It has a secure, non-slip grip, is dishwasher-safe and boasts thousands of perfect five-star Amazon reviews.

More Kitchen Essentials We Love

Next Up

The Best Air Fryers of 2022 for Every Budget and Household

Find out everything you need to know about air fryers and where to buy the best model for you and your household.

9 Best Blenders of 2024 for Smoothies and Shakes

Get healthy and happy with morning smoothies that are both nutritious and delicious. These top-rated blenders can help supercharge your day and put a spring in your step.

10 Useful Products for Growing, Preserving and Cooking With Herbs

Save herbs for home-cooked meals, cute decor and more with these handy gadgets and planters.

The 10 Best Dishwashers for Every Budget in 2023

If it's time to buy a new dishwasher, read this 101 guide first.

13 Best Countertop Compost Bins for Your Kitchen

Composting food scraps in your home is a great way to cut down on landfill waste and upcycle peels, cores and seeds into nutrients for your garden. These countertop compost bins keep it all smell-free and mess-free.

17 Smart Kitchen Storage Ideas You'll Want to Try ASAP

Stop (unknowingly!) wasting space and create a storage-packed kitchen with our clever solutions for your cabinets, drawers, island and pantry.

4 Best Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From pitchers perfect for small kitchens to larger 18-cup dispensers, keep your family hydrated with clean drinking water with one of our top filtering picks.

26 Quick and Easy Tips for Organizing Your Entire Kitchen

Straightening up has never been so satisfying. See our best kitchen organization ideas, plus our favorite products for tidying the fridge, island and pantry.

The Best Coffeemakers Under $150 for Cafe-Quality Coffee at Home

Say hello to cafe-style coffee with these top-rated coffeemakers that are sure to bring out your inner barista.

20 Cute and Stylish Wall Calendars for 2023

From calendars with vintage-inspired art you can frame next year to large reusable acrylic wall calendars and everything in between, hang up one of these cute wall calendars and get excited for all the new things to come in 2023.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.