The 23 IKEA Kitchen Basics a Pro Chef Swears By [As Low as 50¢]

As a professional chef, I'm always testing kitchen tools—not to fill drawers, but because the right gear genuinely makes cooking simpler, quicker, and more enjoyable. IKEA’s kitchen section, especially that irresistible lower floor, is my favorite place to find these essentials.

This list isn't about trendy gadgets or specialty gear; it's about reliable, practical staples that every kitchen needs. Here are the IKEA basics that have consistently proven themselves and earned a permanent spot in my daily cooking routine. Each item on this list has a good reason to have a place in my kitchen - and I hope you'll find genuine value in each one of these 23 recommendations.

BRILJERA $69.99/Santoku knife

Ask any chef about their most essential tool, and knives will always top the list. The BRILJERA Santoku knife immediately caught my eye at IKEA.

I love a good Santoku for vegetable prep. This Japanese-style knife excels at slicing, dicing, and mincing with its shorter, wider blade. The substantial wooden handle provides excellent balance and stability when breaking down everything from delicate herbs to stubborn root vegetables.

At this price point, it's a solid upgrade from basic kitchen knives without the professional-grade sticker shock.

IKEA 365+ Stainless Steel Pot - $19.99

Every kitchen needs reliable workhorses, and this IKEA 365+ pot definitely qualifies. I've actually owned this exact pot for about a decade now, and it's still performing beautifully.

The stainless steel construction makes it incredibly easy to clean while being durable enough for daily use. Despite its solid build, it's surprisingly lightweight, which makes a noticeable difference when managing a busy stovetop or transferring contents to serving dishes. This 5-quart size has become my go-to for everything from pasta to soups - practical design without unnecessary bells and whistles.

VARDAGEN Cast Iron Pot - $69.99

I love this VARDAGEN cast iron pot, a kitchen workhorse that rivals pieces costing three times as much. Cast iron's exceptional heat retention creates ideal conditions for slow-cooked stews, braises, and soups. The heavy lid traps moisture effectively, allowing proteins to break down properly and flavors to meld beautifully. Unlike raw cast iron, this enameled version requires no seasoning and can handle acidic ingredients without reactivity concerns.

The generous handles provide secure grip even with oven mitts, making the transition from stovetop to oven seamless - perfect for dishes that require both searing and slow cooking. This pot represents an investment in cooking capability that will likely outlast most other kitchen equipment.

VARDAGEN Cast Iron Frying Pan - $29.99

A quality cast iron skillet is the cornerstone of any serious cook's arsenal, and this VARDAGEN model delivers professional performance at an approachable price point. The 11-inch diameter provides ample cooking surface without becoming unwieldy during use.

What distinguishes a superior cast iron pan is heat distribution, and this one excels with its extra-thick base that eliminates hot spots - crucial for achieving that perfect golden sear on proteins. The slightly raised pour spouts on either side make it easy to drain excess fat without creating a mess.

Unlike more expensive boutique brands, this pan arrives pre-seasoned and ready to use. With proper care, it develops an increasingly non-stick surface that improves with age - the exact opposite of disposable cookware that deteriorates over time. For everything from stovetop to oven to campfire cooking, this versatile pan punches well above its weight class.

GRILLA Grill Pan - $19.99

Indoor grilling often falls short of its outdoor counterpart, but this GRILLA pan bridges that gap admirably. The ridged base creates those distinctive grill marks while allowing fat to drain away from food – essential for achieving proper caramelization without steaming.

The pan's thoughtful design includes a comfortable wooden handle that stays cool during stovetop use, an important safety feature when working with high-heat cooking methods. The generous size accommodates multiple portions simultaneously, making it practical for family meals.

What sets this grill pan apart is its excellent heat retention. Once properly preheated, it maintains consistent cooking temperatures throughout the cooking process, resulting in evenly charred vegetables and perfectly marked proteins. For apartment dwellers or during inclement weather seasons, this pan delivers that essential char-grilled flavor without the outdoor setup.

PLATS Salt & Pepper Shakers - $3.99

Sometimes the simplest tools are the most indispensable in a kitchen. These PLATS stainless steel salt and pepper shakers might not be revolutionary, but they're a perfect example of practical design done right - at the right price point.

The clean, modern aesthetic works in virtually any kitchen setting, from rustic to industrial. What I particularly appreciate is the slightly weighted bottom that gives them stability during use – a small detail that makes a difference when you're seasoning dishes in the middle of hectic cooking sessions.

Unlike plastic alternatives that can absorb odors or ceramic ones that chip easily, these stainless steel shakers hold up beautifully to daily use. They're also remarkably easy to refill and clean – basic functionality that shouldn't be overlooked when you reach for these essentials dozens of times during meal prep.

nt creates visual interest on a buffet or dining table. A surprisingly versatile tool that earns its place in both preparation and presentation.

BLANDA MATT Bamboo Serving Bowl - $24.99

Presentation matters almost as much as preparation, and this BLANDA MATT serving bowl elevates even the simplest dishes. The layered bamboo construction creates a distinctive visual texture while providing exceptional durability for everyday use.

Unlike plastic or melamine alternatives, this natural material brings warmth and organic character to the table. The 11-inch diameter hits the sweet spot for serving everything from family-style salads to impressive pasta dishes or hearty grain bowls.

Bamboo's practical advantages make it particularly suitable for serving foods that benefit from temperature stability. The material won't leach flavors or react with acidic ingredients, and it naturally resists staining better than many woods. For cooks who appreciate the intersection of functionality and natural aesthetics, this bowl strikes the perfect balance between practical serving vessel and thoughtful table design.

PRUTA Food Containers - $3.19/3-pack

Every professional kitchen relies on a solid storage system, and these PRUTA containers deliver exceptional value without compromising functionality. I've incorporated several sets into my kitchen rotation with impressive results.

The stackable design is a space-saving marvel, allowing for efficient refrigerator organization - crucial when prepping components ahead of service. Their transparency eliminates the frustrating "what's in this container?" guessing game that wastes precious time during busy shifts.

What particularly stands out is their durability considering the price point. They withstand repeated dishwasher cycles without warping or staining, even when storing tomato-based sauces.

RÖRT Wooden Utensils & VALVARDAD Holder - $1.99 each/$6.99

In professional kitchens, we often rely on simple, hardworking tools - and these wooden utensils embody that philosophy perfectly. The RÖRT collection offers impressive functionality without unnecessary frills or inflated prices.

The beechwood construction provides the perfect balance of durability and gentleness on cookware. Unlike metal utensils that can scratch non-stick surfaces, these wooden tools protect your pans while still being sturdy enough for rigorous use. I particularly appreciate how the wood doesn't conduct heat, preventing burned hands when left in a hot pot momentarily.

The VALVARDAD ceramic holder complements them beautifully - it's weighty enough to stay put during hectic cooking sessions and designed with sufficient depth to keep utensils upright and accessible. This simple setup proves that good kitchen design doesn't require a celebrity chef's budget - just thoughtful materials and practical engineering.

FÖRVAR Glass Jars with Lids - $2.99

Sometimes the best kitchen finds are the ones you weren't specifically looking for. These FÖRVAR jars weren't on my shopping list, but when planning an upcoming catering event, they offered the perfect solution for candy display.

I had initially considered veneer containers, but these glass jars provide better functionality with their sturdy construction and elegant transparency. The wide openings make them easily accessible for guests, while the clean design adds a sophisticated touch to any table setting.

I ended up purchasing four of them - enough to create a visually appealing candy station that elevates the presentation without overwhelming the space. They're versatile enough to repurpose later for pantry organization, making them a practical investment beyond the event.

nal workspace wherever you need it most.

IKEA 365+ Bamboo Lids - $5

An organized pantry isn't just visually satisfying—it's essential for efficient cooking. These IKEA 365+ bamboo lids have transformed how I store dry goods in my kitchen.

The natural bamboo creates an attractive contrast against the clear glass containers, adding warmth to what could otherwise be a utilitarian storage solution. But their appeal goes beyond aesthetics—the tight-fitting seal effectively preserves freshness and prevents unwanted moisture from compromising ingredients like grains and rice shown here.

I appreciate how these lids complement various jar shapes in the same collection, creating a cohesive storage system. The bamboo material is both practical and sustainable, resisting stains while being more environmentally friendly than plastic alternatives. For extending the shelf life of pantry staples while maintaining a polished look, these lids are a smart investment.

KORKEN Glass Jars - $3.99-$4.99

Airtight storage is critical for maintaining ingredient freshness, and these KORKEN jars deliver on both functionality and style. The classic bail-and-gasket closure creates an excellent seal that preserves everything from dried beans to pasta and grains.

What separates these from standard mason jars is the satisfyingly substantial clamp mechanism that closes with a definitive snap. The wide mouth design makes filling and scooping ingredients effortless - no more awkwardly maneuvering measuring cups into narrow containers.

I've arranged mine on open shelving to create a visually appealing pantry display that's also highly practical. The transparency allows for quick visual inventory, while the uniform shape creates an organized appearance despite varied contents. These jars prove that practical kitchen storage doesn't have to be hidden behind cabinet doors.

SKOGSTA Cutting Board - $24.99

Every chef needs a reliable workhorse cutting board, and this SKOGSTA model delivers exceptional quality at a surprisingly accessible price point. The patchwork pattern isn't just visually interesting - it's a practical construction technique that enhances durability.

The mixed wood composition creates a surface that's gentle on knife edges while offering substantial resistance to warping and cracking over time. I appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of a corner hole for hanging storage, which helps maintain proper air circulation around the board when not in use.

At this size, it's versatile enough to handle everything from quick herb chopping to breaking down larger ingredients. The varied wood grain pattern also cleverly disguises knife marks that inevitably develop with regular use, allowing the board to maintain its attractive appearance even after years of service.

OFTAST White Plate - 79¢

After exploring workspaces and storage solutions, we're now shifting to tableware - and this OFTAST plate might be the best value in the entire store. At less than a dollar each, these unassuming white plates can easily become the foundation of any kitchen's serving collection.

What makes these plates particularly useful is their classic profile and clean design. The slight rim helps contain sauces without being too pronounced, and the tempered opal glass construction offers impressive durability considering the price point. They're surprisingly resistant to chipping and stand up to both microwave and dishwasher use.

For professional food presentation, white plates remain the industry standard because they provide the perfect neutral backdrop that allows the food to be the star. And you can also add the matching bowls -

SANDSKÄDDA Bowls and Plates- $7.99-$9.99/4-pack

Continuing our exploration of practical tableware, these SANDSKÄDDA bowls and plates offer exceptional versatility in a subtle light grey-beige finish. Available in multiple sizes, they strike the perfect balance between everyday functionality and understated elegance.

The slightly tapered design of the bowls creates a more stable base than completely straight-sided bowls, making them less prone to tipping when filled with soups or stews. Their neutral tone works beautifully with nearly any table setting or color scheme, making them ideal for both casual family meals and more formal entertaining.

KALAS Bowls & Tumblers - $7.99/6-pack & $1.99/6-pack

For kitchen efficiency that doesn't sacrifice personality, these colorful KALAS collections deserve attention. The mixed pastel palette adds a playful touch to everyday dining while maintaining a cohesive look.

I feel that what makes these pieces particularly valuable in a busy kitchen is their practicality. The lightweight plastic construction makes them ideal for outdoor entertaining, families with young children, or casual weeknight meals. Despite their affordable price point, they're surprisingly durable – impact-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and less prone to chipping than ceramic or glass alternatives.

VARDAGEN Glasses - $9.99/4-pack

Glassware often falls into one of two categories: purely functional or impractically decorative. These VARDAGEN glasses beautifully bridge that gap with their textured design and subtle turquoise tint.

The vertical ribbing isn't just an aesthetic choice - it provides a secure grip even with condensation on the outside, making these practical for everyday use. The tempered glass construction adds crucial durability for busy kitchens, significantly reducing breakage compared to standard glassware.

GLASMAL Mixed Color Glasses - $11.99/4-pack

While the VARDAGEN glasses offer subtle coloration, these GLASMAL tumblers take a bolder approach with their striking jewel tones. The horizontal ribbed texture creates fascinating light refraction that adds visual interest to even the simplest beverage.

The mixed color pack is particularly clever for entertaining - the varied hues naturally function as drink markers, eliminating the need for wine charms or other identification systems. The substantial feel of these 11oz glasses provides a premium drinking experience without the premium price tag.

OMBONAD Gray Goblets - $19.99/4-pack

For those looking to elevate their tabletop presentation, these OMBONAD goblets deliver unexpected sophistication. The smoky gray glass creates a contemporary twist on traditional stemware that feels both modern and timeless.

The footed design provides elegant stability while adding visual interest to table settings. While most people reserve stemware for wine, these versatile goblets excel in multiple roles - from serving craft cocktails to presenting layered desserts or even cold soups as an impressive appetizer.

ÄNKEBLOMSTER Wine Glass - 99¢

Proper glassware doesn't need to break the bank, as these ÄNKEBLOMSTER wine glasses beautifully demonstrate. At less than a dollar each, they offer remarkable value while maintaining a classic, versatile shape.

The standard 8-ounce capacity works well for both red and white wines, with enough bowl space to allow reds to breathe while still being appropriate for smaller pours of whites or dessert wines. The clear glass construction provides the perfect view of the wine's color and clarity - essential for proper appreciation.

For entertaining, these affordable glasses solve the common dilemma of needing extra stemware for larger gatherings without investing in expensive pieces that see use only occasionally. Their simple, timeless design fits seamlessly with existing collections, making them ideal for expanding your glassware set or replacing inevitable breakages.

ousses or granitas. The substantial stem and balanced weight give them a quality feel that belies their reasonable price point.

IVRIG Stemless Wine Glasses - $12.99/4-pack

Sleek, modern, and remarkably versatile, these IVRIG stemless glasses in sophisticated smoky gray deliver functionality without the fragility of traditional stemware. The generous round bowl design serves an important purpose beyond aesthetics - it provides ample space for aromas to develop and concentrate.

The low center of gravity means far fewer accidental knocks and spills compared to traditional stemmed glasses. The subtle gray tint adds a contemporary touch while disguising fingerprints and water spots better than clear alternatives. For wine enthusiasts, the bowl shape is particularly well-suited to reds, allowing proper aeration while concentrating the bouquet at the rim.

REKO Glasses - $2.99/6-pack (50 cents per glass!)

Sometimes the most essential kitchen items are the ones we use without thinking about them - and these REKO glasses fit that category perfectly. The straightforward design puts function first, with a comfortable hand-feel and just the right size for water, juice, or a modest pour of spirits.

What makes these glasses particularly valuable in a busy kitchen is their stackability. The thoughtful design allows them to nest neatly inside one another, maximizing cabinet space - a feature that's surprisingly rare in glassware at this price point.

At just 50 cents per glass, they offer remarkable value without feeling disposable or flimsy. For everyday meals, casual gatherings, or as backup glasses when entertaining larger groups, these versatile basics prove that good design doesn't need to be complicated or expensive.

GLADELIG 13oz mug ($4.99 each)

These cozy, simple mugs are perfect for your morning coffee or tea. They are made from stoneware with a colored glaze. This provides durability and a handcrafted aesthetic. The mug is both microwave and dishwasher safe. With a modern gray finish and a stylish gold rim, they add a touch of elegance to your drinkware collection.

Enjoy Your Next Ikea Trip!

In my opinion, these IKEA staples strike the perfect balance of quality, practicality, and affordability. I hope this list helps you make sure you have all your kitchen bases covered, but if anything is missing, you now know what to get on your next visit to Ikea.

Happy cooking!