I fancy myself as a relatively competent cook; I can follow a recipe, and I have a basic idea of what flavours compliment each other, but I'm no Ina Garten. Because I'm not the most confident in the kitchen and I live in a city where takeout is available anytime, anywhere, I find myself preparing food at home less than I, and my wallet, would like. I've convinced myself that the reason I don't cook enough is because my equipment could use an upgrade. I have a couple of pans and a few Pyrex glass containers, but that's about it. In order for me to channel my inner Barefoot Contessa, I need some new kitchen essentials [1] ASAP.
I found everything my kitchen could need at Walmart [2], for prices that make my wallet happy. From a full set of pots and pans to a new blender — and of course the holy grail Kitchen Aid mixer — they've got everything you could possibly want, whether you're starting to build your cookware collection or are a seasoned pro looking for a little revamp. Just keep reading to shop our picks, and while you're at it, dream up all the yummy things you can create!
Green Pan Paris Ceramic Nonstick 2-Piece Frypan Set
This Green Pan Paris Ceramic Nonstick 2-Piece Frypan Set [4] ($80) is about as basic as it gets. Everyone should have these easy pans in their collection.
Kitchen Aid Ceramic Cutlery Set
If you're just starting out, this Kitchen Aid Ceramic Cutlery Set [5] ($60) is comprehensive without being overwhelming.
Tramontina PrimaWare Nonstick Cookware Set
For just $40, you get this entire Tramontina PrimaWare Nonstick Cookware Set [6] ($40, originally $50), so what are you waiting for?
Kitchen Aid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
This Kitchen Aid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer [7] ($320, originally $380) is what dreams are made of. It comes in dozens of colours, but we love the classic stainless-steel version.
Select by Calphalon Space Saving Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set
This is genius. It can feel so difficult to store lots of pots and pans, but this Select by Calphalon Space Saving Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set [8] ($183, originally $251) stacks on top of each other, making storage a cinch.
Pyrex Deep 9" x 13" Bakeware Dish With Sage Lid
Even the most amateur chefs need this Pyrex Deep 9" x 13" Bakeware Dish With Sage Lid [9] ($15). You can cook or bake practically anything in it, and it can also act as a serving dish or tupperware.
The Pioneer Woman Vintage Speckle 10-Piece Nonstick Preseasoned Cookware Set
This bright The Pioneer Woman Vintage Speckle 10-Piece Nonstick Preseasoned Cookware Set [10] ($72, originally $99) has all your essentials.
BakerEze 12-Piece Bakeware Set
If you're ready to bake all season long, grab this complete BakerEze 12-Piece Bakeware Set [11] ($33, originally $39).
Better Homes & Gardens Tri-Ply Nonstick Everyday Roaster
You'll be surprised how much this Better Homes & Gardens Tri-Ply Nonstick Everyday Roaster [12] ($91) comes in handy.
Mainstays Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Besides being beautiful, this Mainstays Stainless Steel Cookware Set [13] ($40) contains everything you need to consider yourself a chef.
Staub Cast-Iron Shallow Wide-Round Cocotte
Slow cook meats and make yummy soups with this Staub Cast-Iron Shallow Wide-Round Cocotte [14] ($338).
Kitchen Aid 5-Speed Blender
Smoothies and salad dressings will taste so much better out of this Kitchen Aid 5-Speed Blender [15] ($110, originally $130).
Rachael Ray 15-Piece Hard Enamel Aluminium Nonstick Cookware Set
We love a nonstick pan, and this Rachael Ray 15-Piece Hard Enamel Aluminium Nonstick Cookware Set [16] ($90, originally $200) is filled with them!