For those of us who love to cook, a large gourmet kitchen with tons of prep space, counter space, cupboards and electrical outlets sounds like nirvana.  But for most of us, the reality is actually quite different so here are the essentials you need to make the most of a tiny kitchen.

Dutch Oven

These indispensable pots can go from stovetop to oven making them a wonderful multi-purpose tool.  Dutch Ovens are the original Instapot!  If you have open shelving, get an enameled version (technically, a French Oven), so you feel good showing it off.

Basquettes

The multi-tasking tool that turns your oven into a: high-capacity air fryer, rotisserie oven, dehydrator, roaster, smoker and more.

Immersion Blender

If you’re really pressed for space, get an immersion blender with a food chopper attachment and a whisk attachment. With this 3-in-1 tool, you’ll be able to puree soup, sauces and smoothies like a pro.

Chef’s Knife & Sheers

A sharp knife and a set of shears makes cutting, slicing and chopping so much easier and faster. Invest in a good knife and keep it sharp with a honing steel (which won’t take up much space!) and the knife will last for years to come.

Instant-Read Thermometer

Whether you’re more of an oven cook or a grill master, an instant-read thermometer is a must for ensuring your food (especially meats) is cooked thoroughly and evenly every time.

Rimmed Baking Pan

A standard rimmed baking pan, also called a half-sheet pan, measures at 17.25″ x 11.5″. This is the perfect size for sheet pan meals for the whole family or you can use it as a cookie tray. Plus, it will fit perfectly under your Basquettes!

Nesting Mixing Bowls

For the sake of saving space, get bowls that come with lids and use them to store leftovers. Plus, lids make traveling to a potluck with food much easier! If you have open shelving, get esthetically pleasing bowls that you can also use for serving. We also high recommend looking for dishwasher-safe bowls so clean-up is a breeze.

Cutting Board

Though we love a beautiful heavy wooden cutting board, there isn’t always enough room for that. Buy a thin cutting board and you may have room for a muffin pan that you can use for cupcakes, muffins, etc.

Other Small Must-Haves

• Measuring Cups & Spoons
• Wooden Mixing Spoons
• Wire Mesh Strainer
• Microplane Grater