I just moved into my first apartment with a tiny kitchen and even tinier pantry, and I’m determined to stock it smart — not just fill it with random stuff I’ll never touch. I want to create a go-to stash that makes everyday cooking easier, but also makes me want to cook when I get home tired.
What are your must-have pantry essentials you always keep stocked? Would love to hear your secret sauces, flavor bombs, or just those underrated jars and boxes you never let run out.
Trader Joe’s Tomato and Roasted Red Pepper Soup is always in my pantry — it’s my lazy dinner MVP. It tastes way richer than it has any right to for something shelf-stable, and the roasted red pepper gives it a little sweet-smoky depth that makes it feel homemade.
It’s also surprisingly good as a cooking base. $3.99 and tastes like I did more than I actually did. It's found in the boxed soups section - don't sleep on it.
Pantry Essentials
small pantry (not a walk-in) for a solo home cook
around $200 to start
mostly quick meals
some weekend experimenting involved
I just moved into my first apartment with a tiny kitchen and even tinier pantry, and I’m determined to stock it smart — not just fill it with random stuff I’ll never touch. I want to create a go-to stash that makes everyday cooking easier, but also makes me want to cook when I get home tired. What are your must-have pantry essentials you always keep stocked? Would love to hear your secret sauces, flavor bombs, or just those underrated jars and boxes you never let run out.
Trader Joe’s Tomato and Roasted Red Pepper Soup is always in my pantry — it’s my lazy dinner MVP. It tastes way richer than it has any right to for something shelf-stable, and the roasted red pepper gives it a little sweet-smoky depth that makes it feel homemade.
It’s also surprisingly good as a cooking base. $3.99 and tastes like I did more than I actually did. It's found in the boxed soups section - don't sleep on it.
If you like spicy food, a good assortment of hot sauce is always good. Personally love Tabasco and Truff sauces.