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    Home » MSN

    12 Underrated Kitchen Gadgets That Will Upgrade Every Meal You Make

    By Emmeline Kemperyd updated June 18, 2026 · Published June 29, 2026 · Leave a Comment

    There are lots of tools that can make cooking easier and more enjoyable, but some of the best gadgets often go unnoticed. From clever gadgets that save time to innovative tools that simplify tasks, see what tools you are really missing out on - without even knowing it!

    Microplane

    A lemon being grated on a microplane.
    Photo credit: ffolas/Shutterstock.

    If you love cooking, you should absolutely consider getting a microplane. It's like a super sharp grater and chefs swear by it for precise grating.

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    Immersion Blender

    A woman using an immersion blender.
    Photo credit: Ground Picture/Shutterstock.

    Looking for a versatile kitchen tool that's compact and easy to clean? An immersion blender with a cup is a great alternative to a food processor, perfect for pureeing soups and chopping veggies quickly.

    Meat Thermometer

    A person using a meat thermometer to testa piece of meat on a grill.
    Photo credit: The Toidi/Shutterstock.

    Want to cook your chicken and steak perfectly every time? Get yourself a meat thermometer - it makes cooking a breeze and ensures your dishes turn out just right!

    Kitchen Shears

    A person cutting fins of a piece of salmon.
    Photo credit: O_Lypa/Shutterstock.

    Kitchen shears are a must-have tool that can make certain cooking tasks much easier, like cutting herbs, pizzas, and whole chicken. And it's great for cutting food into smaller pieces for kids, too!

    Mortar and Pestle

    A stone mortar and pestle.
    Photo credit: are_you_me_17/Shutterstock.

    This is an oldie but a goodie - there's a reason every grandma has one in their house. It's perfect for grinding spices and mixing up flavorful sauces like homemade pesto!

    Slotted Fish Spatula

    A slotted fish spatula.
    Photo credit: Cember Tech/Shutterstock.

    This awesome spatula is super thin and slotted, making it perfect for getting under food without breaking it or collecting excess fat. Plus, the sharp edge makes it easy to break things apart in the pan - it's definitely a kitchen tool worth having!

    Stand Mixer

    A stand mixer with whipped cream.
    Photo credit: Dmitry_Evs/Shutterstock.

    If you want to make cooking and baking a breeze, you need a good stand mixer. It can help you whip up cream, mix batter, and even make homemade mayonnaise with ease. Plus, many models come with extra attachments for added versatility.

    Mandoline

    A person using a mandolin.
    Photo credit: Pressmaster/Shutterstock.

    If you like making dishes with thin slices, such as scalloped potatoes or quick pickled veggies, you'll definitely want to check out this kitchen tool. Just don't forget to also grab a cut-proof glove to stay safe while using the sharp blade!

    Knife Sharpener

    A person sharpening a knife.
    Photo credit: BlueSkyImage/Shutterstock.

    You gotta get this awesome tool for keeping your knives sharp - it's a total game-changer in the kitchen! If you're serious about cooking, having a knife sharpener at home is a must-have for keeping your knives in top shape between professional sharpenings.

    Air Fryer

    An air fryer with fries.
    Photo credit: Shutterstock.

    If you want to make cooking easier and healthier, you've got to check out the air fryer. It's a fantastic kitchen tool that can help you whip up delicious snacks with less mess and more flavor.

    Funnel

    A person pouring liquid thorugh a funnel.
    Photo credit: New Africa/Shutterstock.

    I lived without a funnel for many years, and now I don't know how I even made it through. Using a funnel when you need to pour something into a bottle or jar makes it so much less messy. Once you have one, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it!

    Cookie Scoop

    A cookie scooper.
    Photo credit: Cloud Cap Photography/Shutterstock.

    Cookie scoops are versatile tools that can be used for shaping cookies, falafel, meatballs, and more, as well as filling pierogies, dumplings, and croquettes. I didn't see the point of one at first, but now I find myself using it regularly - it's good for so much!

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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