Must-Have Pantry Staples + Essentials for an Emergency

When an emergency strikes, having the right pantry staples can make all the difference for you and your family. We’ve put together a list of Must-have Pantry Staples + Essentials for an Emergency that are perfect for meal planning. That way, you can whip up something delicious and nourishing, no matter the situation!

When life throws us a curveball—be it a sudden storm, a power outage, or something else unexpected—it’s super important to be prepared. Having the right pantry staples on hand can really save the day!

Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen, stocking up on essentials ensures you can whip up something delicious + tasty no matter the situation. So, let's dive into the must-have pantry staples and essentials for emergencies!

Jump to:

• Why Stocking Your Pantry Matters
• The Essentials
• Canned Goods
• Grains + Pasta
• Cooking Oils
• Condiments
• Baking Staples
• Spices + Seasonings
• Nuts + Seeds
• Fridge + Freezer Foods
• Shelf-Stable Dairy Alternatives
• Household Essentials
• Thats A Wrap!
• More Wellness Tips You Might Enjoy
• DID THIS HELP IN ANY WAY?

Why Stocking Your Pantry Matters

We all know that feeling of running to the store and finding empty shelves. It’s like the universe is telling us to stock up for a rainy day. Plus, having a well-stocked pantry allows you to prepare meals quickly without the stress of last-minute grocery runs. Think about it: when you're in a pinch, the last thing you want is to be scrambling to find ingredients.

By stocking your pantry with a variety of items, you can create balanced meals, avoid processed foods, and save money by not relying on takeout. Plus, it’s a fun challenge to get creative with what you have on hand!

The Essentials

Canned Goods

Canned goods are your best friends in an emergency! They’re shelf-stable, versatile, and can be used in countless recipes. Here are some must-haves:

• Canned beans. Black beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans are protein-packed and can be used in salads, soups, or even as a side dish.
• Canned tomatoes. Diced, crushed, or whole, canned tomatoes form the base of so many dishes, from pasta sauces to chili.
• Canned vegetables. Corn, peas, and green beans can add some nutrition to your meals without the need for fresh produce.
• Canned fish. Packed with protein and omega-3s, these can be eaten straight from the can or with crackers.
• Canned corn beef.

Grains + Pasta

Having a variety of grains + pasta on hand will give you the backbone for countless meals:

• Rice. Brown or white rice is a filling option that pairs well with almost anything. Plus, it’s easy to cook!
• Lentils. Whatever your favorites are!
• Quinoa. This little grain is packed with protein and cooks up quickly. It's great as a side or tossed into salads like My Fave Quinoa Salad.
• Polenta.
• Pasta. Spaghetti, penne, or even whole grain—pasta is a quick and comforting meal option. Just add your canned tomatoes + some seasoning, and you’ve got dinner!
• Grits
• Ramen noodles
• Crackers (whole grain, regular, whichever!)
• Cereal
• Tortilla chips

Cooking Oils

Choose your personal favorites, I personally cannot live without good-quality olive oil.

• Olive oil (extra virgin, light)
• Coconut oil
• Avocado oil
• Sesame oil (toasted or regular)
• Grapeseed oil
• Vegetable oil

Condiments

Don’t forget about condiments that can elevate your meals!

• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Hot sauce (Sriracha, Tabasco, etc.)
• BBQ sauce
• Ketchup
• Mustard (yellow, Dijon, whole grain)
• Mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
• Tahini
• Hoisin sauce
• Fish sauce
• Vinegars (white, apple cider, balsamic, red wine)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Salsa
• Pickles (dill, bread & butter)
• Relish
• Jams/jellies (strawberry, blueberry, etc.)
• Bouillon cubes/paste

Baking Staples

Having baking staples on hand means you can whip up sweet treats or baked goods anytime, without a last-minute grocery run. Plus, they make it easy to experiment with new recipes!

• Baking powder + Baking soda
• Cornstarch
• Flour
• Vanilla. Use pure vanilla extract for the best vanilla flavor.
• Sweeteners (honey, maple syrup, date syrup, Agave)
• Yeast (instant, active dry)
• Sugar (granulated, powdered, superfine)
• Brown sugar (light and dark)
• Coconut sugar
• Cocoa powder
• Condensed milk (sweetened or unsweetened)
• Gelatin (or agar-agar for vegan)
• Almond flour
• Coconut flour
• Baking chocolate (unsweetened, semi-sweet)
• Teas/Coffees.

Spices + Seasonings

Flavor is key in any dish, and dried herbs + spices are your secret weapons:

• Salt (kosher, sea salt, or table salt)
• Black pepper (whole or ground)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika (sweet or smoked)
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Cinnamon
• Ginger (ground)
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Basil
• Bay leaves
• Red pepper flakes
• Curry powder
• Turmeric
• Cayenne pepper
• Nutmeg
• Ground coriander

These basics cover most recipes and add plenty of flavor!

MY FAVORITE HOMEMADE SEASONING BLENDS

Making your own spice blends is honestly one of the best flavor hacks out there, and it couldn't be easier! Not only do you get to customize the flavors to your liking, but you also save money and reduce waste from store-bought options.

• Taco Seasoning
• Cajun Seasoning
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning
• Everything Bagel Seasoning
• Blackened Seasoning
• Dry Rub Steak Seasoning
• Italian Seasoning

Nuts + Seeds

Nuts and seeds not only add crunch but also provide healthy fats and protein. Here are a few to keep stocked:

• Almonds, cashews, pistachios, pecans + walnuts. Great for snacking or tossing into salads for added texture. Plus you can always make your own nut milks!
• Chia Seeds + flaxseeds: These can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods for an extra health boost.
• Dates + rasins.

Fridge + Freezer Foods

While not exactly pantry staples, frozen foods can be lifesavers during emergencies!

• Frozen vegetables. Keep a variety of frozen veggies on hand for stir-fries, soups, or as sides. They’re just as nutritious as fresh ones!
• Frozen fruits. Perfect for smoothies, baking, or snacking! They retain their flavor and nutrients well.
• Pasta sauces. I love Rao's.
• Stocks + Broths (Chicken, Veggie, Beef)
• Bread + bagels
• Butter (unsalted or vegan)
• Eggs
• Cheese (shredded + bricks; hard cheeses such as cheddar, parmesan, asiago tend to last longer)
• Yogurts
• Meats + Seafoods
• Potatoes, sweet potatoes + butternut squash
• Frozen pizza crusts
• Onions
• Garlic
• Unripe avocados
• Ice creams
• Oatmeal (refrigerated to last longer)

To learn more about about what you can freeze see my post on 10 Surprising Foods That Can Be Frozen!

Shelf-Stable Dairy Alternatives

If you follow a dairy-free diet or just want to have alternatives on hand, consider these:

• Nut Milk (Almond, Soy, or Oat): Great for smoothies, coffee, or cereal.
• Coconut Milk: A delicious option for curries and desserts that can also add creaminess to soups.

Household Essentials

Having household essentials ensures that you're prepared for daily needs + emergencies without unnecessary stress.

• Paper towels (Alternatives: Newspaper, Baby Wipes, Cloth Rags)
• Toilet tissue (Alternatives: Wet Wipes, Baby Wipes, Wash Cloths, Terry Cloths)
• Garbage Bags
• Storage Bags (zip loc)
• Plastic Wrap, Foil Paper
• Parchment Paper
• Dish Soap
• Hand Soap
• Laundry Detergent + Essentials
• Sprays
• Lysol Wipes
• Cleaning Supplies
• Alcohol
• Peroxide
• Vitamins + Supplements
• Pain Relief
• Medications
• Body Washes + Soaps
• Toothpaste
• Flashlights
• Candles
• Batteries
• Diapers

Thats A Wrap!

Being prepared for emergencies doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right pantry staples and a little creativity, you can easily make delicious meals that nourish you and your family. Remember, it’s all about being flexible and using what you have on hand. So, go ahead and stock up on these essentials, and rest easy knowing you’re ready for whatever life throws your way!

Whether you’re weathering a storm or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, having a well-stocked pantry is a game-changer. Happy cooking!

More Wellness Tips You Might Enjoy

If you loved learning about these Must-Have Pantry Staples + Essentials for an Emergency then check out these health + wellness tips next:

• 12 Favorite Healthy Green Leafy Vegetables 
• Healthy Oils To Use For Everyday Cooking
• 11 Best Foods to Improve Gut Health
• What the World's Longest Living People Are Eating
• Why Flour Lasts Longer When Refrigerated

DID THIS HELP IN ANY WAY?

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