Kitchen Gadgets That Deserve Counter Space
I like to keep things simple in the kitchen. I don’t have the space or the patience for gadgets that just take up room and collect dust. But as someone who loves to cook, bake, and make the occasional (or frequent) kitchen mess, I’ve found a few tools that have earned their permanent place on the counter.
Here are the three gadgets I use regularly—and wouldn’t want to cook without.
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Stand Mixer
I’ll be honest: I resisted getting a stand mixer for years. I didn’t think I’d use it enough to justify the cost. But last Christmas, my husband surprised me with one from Kohl’s during a big sale (coupon and all), and I have used it way more than I ever expected.
Whether I’m mixing up bread dough, cookie batter, or even meatloaf, my stand mixer handles it all—and looks great doing it. It’s now one of the most-used (and most-loved) appliances in my kitchen.
Air Fryer
Another gadget I thought was just a passing trend? The air fryer. And once again, I was totally wrong. We use ours at least once a week—often more. From homemade french fries to crispy hot wings, it’s become a staple in our meal rotation.
I love that we can cook with less oil, and my family can easily make lunch or dinner even if I’m not in the kitchen. Recently, I upgraded to the West Bend 10-Quart Air Fryer with dual baskets and separate controls. It’s easy to use, simple to clean, and perfect for making two foods at once.
Shop the West Bend 10-Quart Air Fryer on Amazon
Keurig Coffee Maker
Even though I’m not a coffee drinker, our Keurig earns its place on the counter. My husband uses it for his morning coffee, and I use it daily for ginger tea, honey lemon water, or hot cocoa when the weather turns chilly. It’s fast, convenient, and a great way to make one cup at a time—whatever that cup may be.
Shop Keurig Coffee Makers on Amazon
Bonus Favorite: Instant Pot
I don’t keep this one on the counter, but it lives just a cabinet away. I use my Instant Pot for everything from cooking rice to making green beans and potatoes, or even quick beef stroganoff on busy nights. It was another gadget I wasn’t sure I needed—but now, I’d replace it in a heartbeat if it broke.
In a world full of kitchen gadgets promising to “change your life,” these are the ones that have actually earned their place in mine. If you’re working toward a more minimalist kitchen but still want tools that help you cook smarter (and maybe even faster), these are great places to start.
Got a favorite kitchen gadget you think deserves a spot on the counter? Let me know—I’m always open to adding one more… if it earns its keep.
