How to Equip Your Kitchen Like a French Chef
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If you’ve ever seen a French chef in action, you’ll notice one thing: they rely on quality tools and timeless techniques. The good news is you don’t need a professional kitchen to cook like a pro at home. With the right French kitchen equipment, you can effortlessly whip up your favorite dishes including French classics like savory quiche Lorraine and hearty boeuf bourguignon.
Speaking from experience, investing in a few key essentials can truly change the way you cook. Growing up, my dad was basically a part-time chef, and our kitchen was filled with staples like cast iron cookware and sharp, quality knives—some of which have been in our family for decades.
While my dad isn’t French, many of his kitchen tools definitely were! Our well-loved Le Creuset Dutch oven has seen years of use, and now that I’m curating my own kitchen, I’m following suit, investing in pieces that I know will stand the test of time.
Ready to elevate your everyday meals? Here are the top 15 French kitchen essentials to help you cook like a French chef, no matter your skill level. Trust me, these picks are chef’s kiss (pun definitely intended)!
French foodies, you’ll love these related reads:
French Kitchen Essentials
1. Le Creuset Dutch Oven
The Le Creuset Dutch oven is a cornerstone in any French kitchen. Made from sturdy cast iron with an enamel coating, this iconic piece is way more versatile than just for soups and stews. Braise, roast, bake—this pot can do it all. Whether you’re making a rustic coq au vin or a slow-cooked boeuf bourguignon, this is a must-have—and a nod to nearly a century of French culinary tradition. Plus, its bright and bold colors make a cheerful addition to your kitchen countertop.
There are a lot of size options, but the 5.5-quart round Dutch oven is pretty much the perfect all-around pick. It’s big enough to cook for about 4 to 6 people. And if you’re usually just cooking for one (like me), it’s perfect for preparing extra to have leftovers. The 4.5-quart size is also a great choice for making smaller portions. Check out this helpful guide from Le Creuset for more tips on how to choose the right size Dutch oven.
Le Creuset signature enameled cast-iron round Dutch oven, 5.5qt, $420
Le Creuset signature enameled cast-iron round Dutch oven, 4.5qt, $390
2. Cast Iron Skillet
If you want perfectly crisped meat or golden crepes, a cast iron skillet is a must. Like a Dutch oven, a good skillet can last a lifetime and even improve with age. Once you add one to your kitchen, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Use it for high-heat searing, baking, or even frying eggs (croque madame, anyone?). It’s truly a kitchen MVP that belongs in every French-inspired kitchen.
When it comes to the best cast iron skillets, French brands like Staub and Le Creuset are the way to go. You can feel confident that you’re investing in quality with these options.
After learning about the potential health concerns associated with nonstick cookware, I’ve been gradually swapping my pans for cast iron. Not only are they more versatile and durable, but they also come with possible health benefits.
3. Copper Cookware
Copper cookware is the not-so-secret weapon of French chefs, and it’s all about control. These gorgeous pans heat up super fast and cool down just as quickly, making them perfect for everything from delicate sauces to getting that perfect sear. If you’ve ever wondered how the French get their food just right, this is it.
Brands like Mauviel have been producing professional-grade copper pans for centuries, and they’re worth every penny. Investing in a few key pieces, like a Mauviel saucepan, will elevate your cooking game in no time. And let’s be honest—they look stunning hanging in your kitchen!
The biggest drawback to copper cookware is the price tag. You can definitely shop secondhand, but if you need to get them re-tinned, it might not be cheaper in the long run. If you want copper performance without the high cost, consider clad stainless steel with copper. It’s a great compromise that offers similar temperature control without breaking the bank!
4. French Kitchen Knives
Knives are essential in any kitchen, but French knives seem to especially stand out. Top brands like Opinel, Sabatier, and Laguiole offer some of the finest options for precise cuts, whether you're slicing a baguette or mincing shallots. For anyone serious about cooking, investing in high-quality French kitchen knives is a total game-changer.
Every French kitchen should have a few key knives: a classic chef's knife for versatile chopping, a paring knife for intricate tasks, and a serrated knife for perfectly slicing bread and tomatoes. This set of small specialty knives from Opinel is a great way to stock your kitchen arsenal.
If you’re visiting Paris, these knives also make for a fantastic souvenir. Be sure to check out the impressive selection at E.Dehillerin, one of the city’s most iconic kitchen supply stores. For any cooking enthusiast, this place is like Santa’s workshop.
Opinel paring knives, $21.99
Sabatier chef’s knife, $17.99
Opinel bread knife, $40
Laguiole® steak knives, $64.95
5. Mandoline Slicer
Ever wonder how French chefs get those paper-thin slices of vegetables? They’re not just skilled—they use a mandoline slicer. This handy tool is a must-have for everything from gratins to salads, making it easy to achieve thinly sliced potatoes, zucchini, or even apples for a delicious tarte tatin (one of Rémi’s favorites).
I never thought about getting one until recently, but now that I have, it’s been a major upgrade from using a knife. I like to add lots of veggies to my meals, and this makes batch prepping for the week a breeze. One of my favorite ways to use it is for sweet potato fries. And next year, I’m planning to slice up some summer vegetables for ratatouille, one of my favorite French dishes in the warmer months.
6. Mortar and Pestle
The French know that sometimes, the best flavors come from keeping things simple. A mortar and pestle is one of those timeless tools that every kitchen needs. Whether you’re crushing herbs, grinding spices, or making a fresh pesto, it gets the job done like nothing else. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about using it—it just feels old-school in the best way. Bonus: it looks beautiful sitting on your counter.
7. Microplane Grater
A Microplane grater may not scream "French" at first glance, but in a French kitchen, it’s indispensable. Grate fresh cheese over pasta, zest lemons for tarts, or add nutmeg to béchamel. It’s one of those things you’ll find yourself reaching for constantly. Plus, it’s small and easy to store—always a bonus, especially if your kitchen storage is limited.
My French boyfriend actually has two Microplane graters and uses one almost daily. You probably don’t need two, but definitely add one to your French kitchen essentials. I personally love a rich chocolat chaud in the winter, and to make it feel extra special, I’ll top it with whipped cream and grate a little cinnamon and dark chocolate over the top. It’s gourmet and très délicieux!
8. Marble Pastry Board
French pastry chefs know that working with dough is easier on a cool surface. A marble pastry board provides that perfect temperature for rolling out delicate doughs like pâte sucrée or croissants, keeping everything smooth and easy to work with.
If you love baking, this French kitchen essential is a must-have. Plus, when you’re not in baking mode, it doubles as a gorgeous serving board. Functional and stylish—what more could you ask for?
9. Stoneware Baking Dish
A stoneware baking dish is a staple in any French chef’s kitchen. Its excellent heat retention ensures that everything from lasagna to gratins bakes to perfection. And because stoneware is oh-so-elegant, you can serve your homemade French meals directly from the oven to the dining room.
Keep a few different sizes and shapes handy for all your French baking. An oval dish is classic for gratins, while a pie dish is essential for making decadent tarte tatin or buttery quiche Lorraine. I’ve been recently using my rectangular Le Creuset dish for baking pain perdu—a lovely treat for a slow weekend morning.
Durable and versatile, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Le Creuset Heritage stoneware covered rectangular casserole dish, $135
Staub ceramic oval baking dishes, $39.99
10. Madeleine Pan
If you’ve ever had a soft, buttery madeleine with a hint of lemon or almond, you know why a madeleine pan is essential. These pans let you create those signature shell-shaped treats with a light, airy texture. With a non-stick surface, you can easily pop out your madeleines without them sticking or breaking.
For a classic madeleine recipe, I’d recommend Julia Child’s Madeleines de Commercy. Julia Child, the beloved American chef who introduced French cooking to the U.S. with her iconic cookbook Mastering the Art of French Cooking, has crafted a recipe that’s both simple and absolutely delicious. Let me know if you try it!
11. Ramekins
Ramekins are surprisingly versatile. Use them for everything from serving individual portions of crème brûlée to prepping ingredients for a recipe. They’re great for baking, broiling, and even serving dips or sauces. Trying to master a classic French soufflé? You’ll definitely want to have a few ramekins on hand.
Living alone, I love having the option to make individual servings—especially when I'm craving something sweet but don’t want to bake an entire dessert (chocolate mug cakes are my favorite). And when I’m hosting a small apéro, ramekins are always useful for serving snacks like crackers, nuts, olives, etc.
Small ramekins, $12.95
12. Bell Cloche
Store your cheese, pastries and baked goods in style with a bell cloche. Use it to cover dishes, keep your baked goods warm, or display your food the French way. It’s a small investment that makes a big impact on your kitchen’s look and feel—and it’s a lovely addition to your home coffee station.
If you prioritize functionality over presentation, the Emile Henry cheese box is an excellent choice for storing your favorite fromages day to day. This is the more typical way you’ll see cheese stored in French homes—all together in one box. It makes serving cheese after your main course so easy, just like the French do.
Baird covered server, $79.95
13. Corkscrew
13. Corkscrew
Every French chef needs a reliable wine opener. Whether you’re popping open a bottle of Bordeaux or a crisp Chardonnay, a good opener makes the task effortless. You'll find yourself reaching for it even when you just need to open a soda or water.
It doesn’t need to be anything fancy either—a manual option will do the trick. However, if you’re a regular wine drinker (very French), you might consider splurging on a more expensive corkscrew. This Waiter’s Friend corkscrew from Le Creuset is a fantastic choice with all of the extra tools you need, including a foil-cutting blade and bottle opener.
14. Peugeot Paris Salt & Pepper Mills
You might not have given much thought to your salt and pepper storage, but the Peugeot Paris salt and pepper mills are a true staple on any French table. Renowned for their precision and style, these mills allow you to easily adjust the grind for perfect seasoning every time. I love that they come in a variety of vibrant colors to brighten up your French-inspired kitchen.
I’ve even featured them in my guide to the best non-touristy souvenirs to pick up in Paris!
15. French Linen Towels
Linen towels are not only beautiful but also practical. In French kitchens, they serve multiple purposes—from drying dishes to doubling as oven mitts. They’re absorbent, durable, and, of course, très chic. You won’t regret having a stash of these around for your everyday kitchen tasks. The classic striped design is definitely one of my favorites!
Coucke French 100% linen towel, $24.99
Shop French Kitchen Essentials
By equipping your kitchen with these French kitchen essentials, you’ll be ready to tackle everything from a casual weekday dinner to a full-on French feast. Start with the iconic pieces, and slowly curate your collection. After all, a well-stocked kitchen is key to mastering the art of French cooking—something I've seen firsthand in various French kitchens. Happy cooking!
