Having a well-stocked pantry and refrigerator can make or break mealtime. By keeping certain essential ingredients on hand, it’s easier to whip up a meal at a moment’s notice.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, these 20 ingredients are versatile and essential for any kitchen.

1. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a staple in many recipes, and it’s a healthier alternative to other types of oils. Use it for cooking, baking, and as a salad dressing base.

2. Salt and Pepper

A sprinkle of salt and pepper can take a dish from bland to flavorful in an instant. Keep both on hand and adjust accordingly to taste.

3. Garlic

Garlic is an essential ingredient in many dishes, adding rich flavor and aroma. Keep fresh garlic bulbs or minced garlic in a jar on hand for easy use.

4. Onions

Like garlic, onions are a flavor powerhouse. They add depth to soups, stews, and stir-fries. Keep a variety of onions on hand, such as yellow, red, and green.

5. Flour

Flour is a pantry staple, used to thicken sauces, make dough for bread, and bake cakes. All-purpose flour is versatile, but keep other types like whole wheat, almond, or coconut flour if you have specific dietary needs.

6. Sugar

Sugar is used in both sweet and savory dishes, from baked goods to sauces. Keep both granulated and brown sugar on hand, as well as honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.

7. Rice

Rice is a versatile and inexpensive pantry staple that can be used in many dishes. Keep a variety of rice types on hand, such as white, brown, wild, and basmati.

8. Pasta

Pasta is a quick and easy meal option. Keep a variety of pasta shapes on hand, such as spaghetti, penne, and linguine.

9. Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a versatile ingredient, used to make sauces, soups, stews, and pasta dishes. Keep both diced and whole canned tomatoes on hand.

10. Chicken Broth or Stock

Chicken broth or stock is a versatile ingredient, used in soups, stews, and sauces. Keep both low-sodium and regular chicken broth or stock on hand.

11. Vegetable Broth or Stock

Vegetable broth or stock is a great alternative for vegetarian or vegan dishes. Keep both low-sodium and regular vegetable broth or stock on hand.

12. Canned Beans

Canned beans are a convenient and nutritious ingredient, used in soups, stews, and salads. Keep a variety of canned beans on hand, such as black, kidney, and chickpeas.

13. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are healthy and flavorful ingredients that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Keep a variety of nuts and seeds on hand, such as almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds.

14. Dried Herbs and Spices

Dried herbs and spices add flavor and aroma to dishes. Keep a variety of spices on hand, such as paprika, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon.

15. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is a versatile ingredient, used in Asian dishes, marinades, and sauces. Keep both regular and low-sodium soy sauce on hand.

16. Vinegar

Vinegar is another versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Keep a variety of vinegars on hand, such as balsamic, apple cider, and white vinegar.

17. Mustard

Mustard is a condiment and ingredient that adds a tangy flavor to dishes. Keep both yellow and Dijon mustard on hand.

18. Hot Sauce

Hot sauce is a spicy condiment that can be used to add heat and flavor to dishes. Keep a variety of hot sauce on hand, such as Tabasco, Sriracha, and Frank’s RedHot.

19. Eggs

Eggs are a versatile ingredient, used in both sweet and savory dishes. Keep fresh eggs on hand for breakfast, baking, and frying.

20. Milk or Milk Alternative

Milk or milk alternative is an essential ingredient in baking and cooking. Keep both dairy and non-dairy options on hand, such as skim milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.