10 Pantry Staples That Will Save You in a Pinch

There’s nothing worse than staring at your pantry at 6 p.m., hoping dinner will magically appear. I’ve been there more times than I can count, and it’s not fun. That’s why I’ve learned to keep a few go-to staples on hand—things that make it easy to throw together a meal without a second trip to the store.

These are the ingredients that save me when I’m short on time, energy, or both. They’re versatile, they last forever, and they’ve turned “what’s for dinner?” into something I can actually answer without stressing out.

Canned Pinto Beans

Canned pinto beans are a quick and easy way to add protein and flavor to your meals. Whether you’re making chili, burritos, or a simple side dish, these beans are ready to use straight out of the can. Just rinse them to reduce the sodium, and they’re good to go.

They’re versatile enough to use in soups, salads, or even mashed up as a filling for tacos. Stocking up on canned pinto beans means you’ll always have an affordable, healthy option for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast.

Oats

Oats are a pantry powerhouse. They’re perfect for breakfast, but don’t stop there—you can use them in baking, for making granola, or even as a binder in meatballs or veggie patties. If you want to up your protein game, look for options like Kodiak Protein Oats for an extra nutritional boost.

They’re easy to cook, filling, and super versatile. Plus, they store well and last a long time, so you can always count on them being ready to go when you need a quick, healthy meal or snack.

Pasta

Pasta is one of those staples you can always rely on. It’s quick to cook, works with just about any sauce, and can be turned into a full meal with whatever you have on hand. Keep a few types in your pantry—spaghetti, penne, and maybe something fun like bowties—for more options.

Pair it with jarred marinara, a drizzle of olive oil and garlic, or some butter and Parmesan for an instant dinner. Pasta is affordable, easy to store, and a total lifesaver on nights when you just need something simple and satisfying.

Flour

Flour is the backbone of so many recipes, from pancakes to homemade pizza dough. Having a bag of all-purpose flour in the pantry means you’re ready for baking cookies, thickening sauces, or even making a quick roux.

It’s worth keeping a little extra on hand for last-minute inspiration. Whether you’re rolling out biscuits or dredging chicken for frying, flour is one of those ingredients you don’t realize you need until you’re out. Having it stocked makes all the difference.

Kosher Salt

Kosher salt is one of those pantry basics that makes a big difference. The larger flakes dissolve evenly, so it’s easier to control the flavor of whatever you’re making. It’s great for seasoning everything from meats to pasta water and gives your dishes a more balanced, well-seasoned taste.

It’s not the same as table salt, so you’ll need to adjust recipes when switching between the two. Kosher salt is less concentrated, but once you get used to it, it’s hard to imagine cooking without it.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a kitchen staple that makes cooking feel effortless. It’s mild enough for everyday use but still adds just the right amount of flavor. Use it for sautéing, roasting, or drizzling over veggies, and it also works perfectly in salad dressings or marinades.

You don’t need a super fancy bottle to get the job done—just a good, reliable olive oil that stays fresh. Keeping it in your pantry means you’ll always have a simple way to add flavor to your meals.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is one of those ingredients that quietly holds everything together. Use it as a sandwich spread, mix it into dressings, or add it to dips for a creamy texture. It’s also great for binding salads, like chicken or egg salad, and works wonders in recipes that need a little richness.

Stick with full-fat mayo for the best results. A jar in your fridge is an easy go-to when you need something to elevate a simple dish or pull a meal together in minutes.

Potatoes

Potatoes are the ultimate pantry essential. They can be baked, mashed, roasted, or fried, making them one of the most versatile ingredients out there. They’re hearty, filling, and pair well with just about anything you have on hand.

The best part is they don’t need to take up space in your fridge. Store them in a cool, dark spot, and they’ll last for weeks. Having a bag of potatoes means you’re never far from a quick side dish or a comforting meal.

Diced Tomatoes

Canned diced tomatoes are a lifesaver for busy cooks. Skip the mess of peeling and chopping fresh tomatoes—they’re already done for you. These handy cans are perfect for building quick and flavorful meals, like pasta sauces, soups, or stews. You can even toss them into a casserole for a burst of color and tangy goodness.

The beauty of diced tomatoes is their versatility. They’re a solid backup when fresh ones are out of season or too expensive, and they last forever in the pantry. Keep a few cans on hand, and you’ll always have a quick fix for those “What’s for dinner?” moments.

Broth

A stash of broth is like a secret weapon for your cooking. Sure, it’s great for soups, but it’s just as handy for so many other dishes. Use it to cook rice or grains for added flavor, braise meats, or even create quick pan sauces. It instantly levels up your dishes with minimal effort.

And let’s talk convenience. Whether it’s chicken, beef, or veggie, having broth on hand means you’re ready for whatever recipe comes your way. It’s an easy pantry staple that turns basic meals into something a little more special, and you’ll never regret keeping a few cartons or cans around.

Rice

Rice is a pantry must-have, plain and simple. It’s easy, filling, and pairs well with almost anything. Whether it’s a quick side dish, a base for stir-fries, or part of a hearty casserole, rice pulls its weight in the kitchen. You can even jazz it up by cooking it in broth or tossing in some herbs and spices.

It’s also budget-friendly and long-lasting, so you can stock up without worrying about it going bad. From weeknight dinners to last-minute meal ideas, rice is the go-to that makes everything feel just a little more complete.