Listmania!
My Kitchen Essentials
By an Amazon.com customer
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 1-1/4-Quart Precision Pour Saucepan with Cover, RedLe Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 1-1/4-Quart Precision Pour Saucepan with Cover, Red
Buy new: $99.99
Le Creuset -- the standard I use to measure all kitchen products. Worth the money because it will last.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 4-1/4-Quart Soup Pot with Cover, RedLe Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 4-1/4-Quart Soup Pot with Cover, Red
Buy new: $169.99
What's not to love about soups, chowders, and stews? The cast iron and enamel coating give you even heat.
Le Creuset Red Round Grill Pan 10"Le Creuset Red Round Grill Pan 10"
Cold or rainy outside? Still want those grill marks on your salmon? This is perfect for two chops, burgers, or steaks.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 11-3/4-Inch Skillet with Iron Handle, RedLe Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 11-3/4-Inch Skillet with Iron Handle, Red
Buy new: $99.99
For those bigger jobs.
KitchenAid KP2671XWH Professional 6-Quart Stand Mixer, WhiteKitchenAid KP2671XWH Professional 6-Quart Stand Mixer, White
Buy new: $425.99
The only mixer you will need. Unless you plan to keep it on the counter permanently, then you might want to start lifting weights because this puppy is heavy!
Cuisinart DCG-20N Coffee Bar Coffee Grinder, WhiteCuisinart DCG-20N Coffee Bar Coffee Grinder, White
Buy new: $19.99
Good inexpensive workhorse. At this price you could buy a second one for grinding spices.
Chicago Metallic Professional Nonstick Pizza CrisperChicago Metallic Professional Nonstick Pizza Crisper
Buy new: $16.49
Even if you only ever use this pan for frozen pizzas, this inexpensive quality item is a must if you love a crisp pizza crust.
CorningWare 16-pc. Jumbo SetCorningWare 16-pc. Jumbo Set
Buy new: $59.99
Good, inexpensive set of essential bakeware that you will use over and over. While Emile Henry and Le Creuset make more attractive bakeware, you can't beat Corningware for everyday use.
Tilia FoodSaver Vac 550 Kit Vacuum Sealing SystemTilia FoodSaver Vac 550 Kit Vacuum Sealing System
If you like to shop ahead and freeze, then this is the tool for you. Removes air and keeps freezer burn to a minimum. There are many sizes and models, so do some research before you buy.
Chicago Metallic 7-pc. Bakeware SetChicago Metallic 7-pc. Bakeware Set
Buy new: $49.99
Tired of those inexpensive jelly roll pans that rust away? Invest in a good set and be happy. If you are a baker you should look at the many specialty products CM makes.
Silpat 11-5/8-by-16-1/2-Inch Nonstick Silicone Baking MatSilpat 11-5/8-by-16-1/2-Inch Nonstick Silicone Baking Mat
Buy new: $18.49
Speaking of baking -- the clever French introduced this product several years ago. It is a lifesaver in terms of clean up, not to mention the fact that cookies do not stick to the silicone base.
Kitchenaid Poly Board Red Corners 8 Inch x 10 InchKitchenaid Poly Board Red Corners 8 Inch x 10 Inch
Buy new: $15.99
Never underestimate the importance of the humble cutting board. This board has silcone handles that prevent slipping on the counter. Comes in various colors by the way.
Wüsthof Classic Deluxe 8-Piece Block SetWüsthof Classic Deluxe 8-Piece Block Set
Buy new: $349.99
Don't skimp on your knives. Go to a good store and get a feel for the weight and quality. Wusthof is a good brand, but the choice of brand/style seems to be a highly personal one.