My Most-Used Cookware (and Why I Believe in Buying Quality)
My favorite cookware!
I’ve been slowly collecting kitchen items ever since I got married 15 years ago. Over time, my kitchen has become one of the most used rooms in our house—and with seven kids, that’s saying something. I cook dinner most nights, and I don’t mind spending money on quality pieces that I’m truly going to use.
I’ve learned that I’d much rather save up for one high-quality item than buy something cheaper that I’ll have to replace in a year or two. The pieces I reach for most are the ones that have stood the test of time, handle big portions, and make cooking for a large family easier.
These are the cookware items I use on a regular basis: Everything is linked here!
Braiser
My mother-in-law gifted me this braiser 10 years ago, and it is hands down my most-used piece of cookware. I make almost everything in this pot. If I could only keep one piece of cooking equipment, this would be it.
The only time I reach for my Dutch oven instead is when I’m feeding a really big crowd and need the extra capacity. It’s definitely a splurge, but this is the kind of pot you’ll have forever—and it just keeps getting better with age.
Dutch Oven
This is my go-to for soups, stews, chili, and any big one-pot meal. I truly think every kitchen needs a Dutch oven. Like the braiser, it’s expensive—but it’s also indestructible and endlessly useful. One of my absolute favorite things to cook with.
Pasta Pot
I love my All-Clad pasta pot for cooking big batches of pasta (which we do often). It’s such a workhorse in a busy kitchen and makes feeding a crowd so much easier. A must-have, especially for large families.
Saucepan
This pot gets daily use. I make sauces, gravy, reheated leftovers, and even my kids’ mac and cheese in it. Simple, reliable, and constantly on the stove.
Toaster Oven
I honestly use this more than my regular oven. It heats up faster, fits most pans, and is perfect for everyday cooking. It can also toast six bagels at once—which is absolutely necessary in a house of nine.
Sheet Pans
Every kitchen needs good sheet pans. I use them to roast vegetables, keep food warm, and prep meals. My kids also use them constantly for frozen appetizers, nachos, and quick snacks. I have three different sizes, and they all get used regularly.
Rice Cooker
This may sound dramatic, but I could not live without my rice cooker. We eat rice two to three times a week, and it makes perfect rice every single time. I also love that it keeps the rice warm—so if we’re out at the park or a game, we can come home to perfectly cooked rice waiting for us.
Bread Oven
This isn’t totally necessary, but my husband gifted me this for Valentine’s Day last year and I absolutely love it. I recently got back into making sourdough, and this thing makes a perfect loaf every time.
What cookware do you use the most?
Talk Soon,
7kidskitchen
We are a family of 4 (2 adults, 2kids) and I’m wondering if you think a 3.5qt braiser would be sufficient?
Oh also do you have a recommendation for a pan for pancakes?