Timeless Kitchen Essentials: My Top 2019 Favorite Accessories and Gadgets for Every Home Cook

Welcome to my curated list of top kitchen accessories from 2019! This compilation features all the remarkable tools and gadgets that truly stood out in my kitchen throughout the year. Whether you’re searching for thoughtful gift ideas for a fellow culinary enthusiast, looking to upgrade your own cooking arsenal, or simply curious about which items earned a coveted spot in my daily routine, you’ve come to the right place. These aren’t just trendy fads; these are the workhorses and delightful additions that genuinely enhanced my cooking, simplified my life, and brought a touch of joy to my kitchen space. Discover the essentials that made 2019 a year of culinary satisfaction and continue to prove their worth beyond the year.

Staub Cast Iron Frying Pan:This skillet has truly earned its title as a kitchen workhorse in my home. From achieving perfectly caramelized onions with a rich, deep flavor to frying eggs for a hearty breakfast or baking a comforting spoonbread, it handles every task with remarkable ease. What truly sets this Staub pan apart from other cast iron skillets, like my Lodge, is its slightly shiny, enamel coating. This innovative finish means absolutely no seasoning is required, eliminating the typical high-maintenance upkeep associated with traditional cast iron. You can simply wash it with soap and water, just like any other pan, without worrying about stripping a hard-earned seasoning layer. This allows me to enjoy all the incredible benefits of cast iron—superior heat retention, even cooking, and robust durability—without any of the traditional fuss. It’s a genuine game-changer for anyone who loves cast iron but dislikes the specialized care.
Utensil Holder: More than just a pretty face, this utensil holder has transformed the functionality and aesthetics of my kitchen countertop. It expertly corrals all my frequently used tools—from the large ladle and balloon whisk to my essential wooden spoons—keeping them within arm’s reach and eliminating the need to constantly rummage through cluttered drawers. Its design is beautifully basic, featuring a neutral crock that effortlessly complements any kitchen decor, from modern minimalist to rustic farmhouse. This makes it an incredibly versatile piece, perfect for organizing your own cooking essentials or as a thoughtful and practical housewarming gift year-round. It’s the kind of item you never knew you needed until it brings such accessible organization to your culinary space.
Carafe: I can hardly believe I only acquired this carafe a week ago, yet it has already cemented its place on my list of 2019’s favorite kitchen accessories! This isn’t just any basic carafe; it’s an exceptional insulator, capable of keeping beverages piping hot for an impressive duration of up to 12 hours. If you check its stellar ratings on Amazon, you’ll see I’m not the only one raving about its performance. It’s an absolute lifesaver, especially during the busy holiday season when entertaining guests. Imagine hosting a hot chocolate bar party and being able to store your delicious hot chocolate in this carafe—it stays warm for hours, requires no constant stirring, and frees you up to enjoy your guests. This makes hosting effortless and ensures every cup is as warm and delicious as the first.
Gooseneck Kettle: I know, I know! Last year, I raved about a different kettle on my gift guide, and while it still performs admirably, I finally succumbed to the desire for an upgrade that better matched my kitchen’s aesthetic. Since our kettle proudly occupies a prominent spot in our coffee nook, I wanted something that was as visually appealing as it was functional. This specific gooseneck kettle delivers on both fronts. Beyond its sleek design, it boasts an incredible “hold feature” that maintains water at a precise temperature for extended periods. I swear by its ability to elevate my Chemex coffee experience; the temperature precision is absolutely crucial for optimal extraction and a superior brew. For any coffee or tea connoisseur, the controlled pour and exact temperature settings of a gooseneck kettle are indispensable.
Loloi Runner: Okay, I’m not going to lie—it felt like eons before I finally committed to a runner for our kitchen. As someone who leans heavily towards a neutral palette (and I mean *extremely* neutral, you can see the proof here), this particular runner initially felt way outside my comfort zone. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, I kept finding myself drawn back to it. In person, its colors possess a charming vintage quality and are undeniably brighter than anything else I’ve chosen for the rest of our home. What ultimately sealed the deal was its incredibly affordable price tag, clocking in around $50, combined with the practical benefit of its darker tones. These darker hues cleverly disguise any inevitable kitchen spills or scuffs, maintaining a clean look even in a high-traffic area. I took the leap, and I am so incredibly glad I did; it looks as if it was always meant to be there! Its beauty and resilience make it perfect not just for the kitchen, but also for a hallway or bathroom. I’ve made sure to link it at the lowest price I could possibly find – truly worth every single penny for the style and practicality it brings.
Drying Mat: You simply wouldn’t believe the sheer volume of dishes I tackle in a single day! This dish drying mat has become an indispensable part of my kitchen routine, especially for those larger or more delicate items that I prefer not to entrust to the dishwasher. Its generous size is a major advantage, easily accommodating a massive load of pots, pans, and fragile glassware without overcrowding. Made from super-absorbent materials, it quickly wicks away moisture, allowing dishes to air dry efficiently and spot-free. When not in use, it folds up compactly for easy storage, freeing up valuable counter space. It’s a thoughtful, practical solution that protects my countertops and simplifies the post-meal cleanup process.
Roasting Pan: This is another recent acquisition that has swiftly proven its worth in my kitchen. I’ve already put it to the test with exciting new recipes, including a garlic roast beef I’m perfecting and a brand-new roasted turkey recipe. Its performance has been outstanding, ensuring even cooking and beautiful browning every time. Beyond its excellent cooking capabilities, I’ve been incredibly impressed with how easy it is to clean; a little Barkeepers Friend effortlessly removes any residue, leaving it sparkling. This isn’t just a temporary tool; it’s a visibly high-quality piece of cookware designed to last for many years to come, making it a reliable staple for all my holiday feasts and everyday roasting needs.
Marble Paper Towel Holder: This particular piece is a personal favorite because it effortlessly combines an air of luxury with an incredibly accessible price point. It looks remarkably expensive, yet you’ll be genuinely surprised by its affordability. The best part, however, is its material: genuine marble. Marble possesses a timeless elegance that ensures this holder will virtually never go out of style, making it a lasting addition to your kitchen decor. Its natural weight provides excellent stability, allowing for easy, one-handed tearing of paper towels. It’s a small detail, but one that adds a touch of sophistication and practicality to any countertop.
Toaster:While its primary function is, of course, to perfectly toast bread, bagels, and pastries, this toaster goes beyond basic utility by adding a touch of class to my countertop. If you’re like me and prefer to keep your toaster readily accessible rather than stashed away, its sleek design becomes an important consideration. Beyond its elegant appearance, it’s packed with user-friendly features that enhance the toasting experience. It includes a dedicated bagel feature, ensuring your bagels are toasted perfectly on one side while remaining soft on the other, and a convenient stop button that allows you to halt the toasting cycle at any moment. It’s a reliable, aesthetically pleasing appliance that makes everyday breakfasts a little more enjoyable.
Knife Organizer: I confess, I’m one of those individuals who prefers not to display my knives in a traditional butcher block or on a magnetic strip, adhering to a more minimalist approach when it comes to kitchen countertop gear. Furthermore, my knife collection isn’t a cohesive set from a single brand; my bread knife, chef’s knife, and paring knife are all distinct, serving their unique purposes. This clever knife organizer is an absolute dream for neatly storing all my knives away in a drawer, keeping them protected and out of sight. Crucially, from a safety perspective, it’s an excellent choice, particularly if you have little hands prone to reaching into drawers. It ensures sharp blades are securely tucked away, providing peace of mind and maintaining a streamlined kitchen.
Salt Cellar: Here’s another one of those rare and delightful marble finds that offers incredible style without requiring you to break the bank! This salt cellar is wonderfully cute and boasts a simple elegance that makes it perfectly suitable for leaving out on the countertop. It provides quick and easy access to coarse salt or flaky sea salt while cooking, making seasoning effortless. In fact, its charm is so undeniable that I’ve even considered using one as a stylish catch-all with a lid on my nightstand, proving its versatility beyond the kitchen. It’s a small detail, but one that elevates both form and function in any space.
Staub Cocotte: This Staub Cocotte holds a special place as one of my absolute favorite Dutch ovens, and for very good reason. It’s an incredibly versatile piece of cookware, excelling at everything from simmering rich pots of soup and comforting shepherd’s pie to robust, slow-cooked stews. What I particularly adore about this cocotte is its seamless transition from the stovetop to the oven, and then directly to the table for serving. This multi-functional capability significantly reduces the number of dishes used during meal preparation and serving. Did someone say less cleanup? Its superior heat retention and distribution ensure perfectly cooked meals every time, and its beautiful design means it looks just as good on your dining table as it performs in the kitchen.
Measuring Cups + Spoons: A reliable set of measuring cups and spoons is the cornerstone of accurate and successful cooking and baking. This particular set distinguishes itself with its heavy-duty construction, suggesting a level of durability that means it could very well be the only set you’ll ever need. Built to withstand the rigors of frequent use, these tools ensure precise measurements for all your ingredients, which is critical for consistent results in the kitchen. The robust material and thoughtful design make them a practical and long-lasting investment for any home cook, from novice to seasoned chef.
Dyson: My purchase of the Dyson V8 about two months ago has been nothing short of life-changing; I genuinely can’t imagine my daily routine without it now. Given that our new place features approximately 99% vinyl flooring, this cordless vacuum makes quick work of picking up any and every crumb, dust bunny, or stray pet hair with incredible ease. As someone who truly despises sweeping the entire house with a broom, the Dyson is a serious lifesaver. The cordless design is an absolute revelation, liberating me from the constant hassle of unplugging and replugging the vacuum every 20 feet. Its lightweight and powerful suction make quick cleanups a breeze, particularly in the kitchen where spills and crumbs are an everyday occurrence.
Cork and Glass Travel Mug: I’ve been a proud owner of this cork and glass travel mug for a couple of years now, and I find myself reaching for it constantly. The addition of a natural cork band around the cup not only provides a lovely aesthetic touch but is also thoughtfully placed where one naturally holds the cup, offering a comfortable and secure grip. The mug itself is crafted from glass, a material I specifically sought out because it truly doesn’t alter the delicate flavor of your coffee or tea, unlike some metal containers which can impart a metallic taste. The only minor drawback is that due to the cork exterior, the base of the mug is not dishwasher safe – though the lid is. While this doesn’t bother me personally as I prefer handwashing, I wanted to highlight it for those who are specifically on the hunt for a fully dishwasher-safe travel mug. Nevertheless, its ability to preserve beverage flavor makes it a standout choice for discerning drinkers.
Butter warmer: It’s truly remarkable how often I receive messages and emails asking about the source of my butter warmer whenever I feature it in my food photography! This charming little piece is the perfect size for gently heating just a cup of butter, making it ideal for everything from preparing melted butter for dipping seafood to crafting delicate sauces. Beyond its practical utility, its classic enamelware look makes it an aesthetically pleasing prop for food photography, lending a rustic yet refined touch to any shot. It’s also a delightful item for those looking to add a touch of quaint charm and functional decor to open shelving in their kitchen, proving that even the smallest accessories can make a big impact.
Bissell Floor Cleaner: This Bissell floor cleaner has undeniably become another vital kitchen essential for me, profoundly simplifying my life. I can confidently say that my days of wrestling with wet sheets and struggling with a traditional Swiffer mop are happily behind me. This incredible machine makes floor cleaning incredibly easy, practically driving itself across the surface with minimal effort from me. It not only cleans but also dries floors in mere minutes, which is a huge advantage in a busy kitchen. What truly makes it magic is its versatility: it works flawlessly on all types of hard floors and even breathes new life into some area rugs. This level of cleaning power and convenience is a game-changer for maintaining a spotless and inviting kitchen environment.
Instant Read Thermometer:An instant-read thermometer is an absolute non-negotiable for anyone who regularly grills, roasts, or bakes. This particular model has proven to be incredibly accurate and fast, making it indispensable for ensuring perfect doneness and food safety. Whether I’m roasting my 1-hour whole roasted chicken to juicy perfection or preparing the centerpiece of a Thanksgiving feast – the turkey – this thermometer provides instant, reliable temperature readings. It eliminates guesswork and guarantees that meats are cooked through without being overdone, ensuring tender, delicious results every time. It’s a foundational tool that every home chef truly needs in their arsenal for consistently excellent cooking.
Instant Pot: I’m emphatically adding the Instant Pot to this list for two compelling reasons: 1.) If you ever find yourself in need of whipping up a delicious and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes, this electric pressure cooker will quickly become your culinary best friend. It dramatically cuts down cooking times for everything from stews and chilies to perfectly cooked grains and tender meats. 2.) At the time of compiling this list, it was possibly the lowest price I had ever seen it! Beyond its speed, its multi-functional capabilities (pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, and more) make it an incredibly versatile appliance. It’s truly a game-changer for busy individuals or anyone looking to simplify meal preparation without compromising on flavor or quality.

And there you have it – my comprehensive roundup of favorite kitchen accessories that defined my 2019! It’s been a year of discovering indispensable tools that genuinely make life in the kitchen more efficient, enjoyable, and delicious. I’m always eager to hear about what other home cooks are loving. Are there any items on this list that you already own and cherish? Or perhaps you’ve discovered a fantastic kitchen gadget that you believe should be on everyone’s radar? Please share your thoughts and tell me about some of your own favorite 2019 kitchen accessories in the comments below! I’m constantly on the hunt for my next beloved kitchen purchase, and your recommendations are always welcome.

Shop the items in my 2019 favorite kitchen accessories list:

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