How do you stock an outdoor kitchen?

Outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular additions to backyards and patios. Cooking and entertaining outside provides a refreshing way to enjoy beautiful weather and spend time with friends and family. Stocking your outdoor kitchen allows you to cook full meals and keep drinks and snacks on hand for spontaneous gatherings.

Essential Appliances

The most important elements of any kitchen are the cooking appliances. For an outdoor kitchen, look for appliances specifically designed for outdoor use that can withstand the elements. Here are some essential appliances to include:

• Gas or electric grill – This is likely the centerpiece of your outdoor kitchen. Opt for a large, high-quality grill with features like side burners and plenty of cooking surface area.
• Refrigerator – An outdoor refrigerator keeps cold drinks and perishable foods chilled. Look for a high-capacity model with weather-resistant features.
• Sink – An outdoor sink provides running water for washing, food prep, and cleaning. Look for stainless steel sinks made for outdoor installation.
• Side burner – A side burner on your grill provides additional cooking functionality for pots, pans, and skillets.
• Pizza oven – A wood-fired or gas pizza oven allows you to make restaurant-quality pizza at home.
• Warming drawer – This keeps cooked food warm until ready to serve.
• Ice maker – An outdoor ice maker ensures you always have ice on hand for cold drinks.
• Trash/recycling bins – Durable outdoor bins keep your space tidy.

Think through how you plan to use your outdoor kitchen and let that guide you on which appliances are essential for your setup. Professional installation is recommended for most outdoor appliances to ensure proper ventilation, electrical and gas connections, and weatherproofing.

Grilling Tools & Accessories

A well-equipped outdoor kitchen should contain all the tools and accessories you need for successful grilling. Here are some grilling supplies to stock up on:

• Grill utensils – Tong, spatula, fork, and brush essential for handling food on the grill.
• Grill mat – Allows you to grill small or delicate foods.
• Skewers – For making kabobs, shrimp, and more.
• Grill basket – Lets you grill items like vegetables and fish fillets.
• Smoker box – Adds a smoky flavor when using a gas grill.
• Instant read thermometer – Ensures food is cooked to proper temperature.
• Heat-resistant gloves – Protect hands from heat.
• Apron – Keeps clothes protected from spills.
• Cleaning brush – For cleaning grill grates.
• Grill cover – Protects grill from elements when not in use.

Quality grilling tools make grilling easier, safer, and more efficient. Invest in sturdy stainless steel tools with heat-resistant handles. Storage bins, hooks, and trays help keep items organized when not in use.

Kitchen Tools & Dinnerware

Your outdoor kitchen should contain additional tools and dinnerware for preparing food, cooking side dishes, serving, and dining. Consider including these items:

• Pots, pans, and skillets – For boiling, sauteing, and more.
• Cooking utensils – Ladles, spatulas, serving spoons, etc.
• Cutting boards and knives – For food prep work.
• Silverware – Knives, forks, and spoons.
• Plates, bowls, cups – For serving and eating meals.
• Napkins and tablecloths – To decorate and protect your table.
• Serving platters, bowls, pitchers – For bringing food to the table.
• Salt & pepper mills/shakers – For seasoning food.
• Bottle opener & corkscrew – For opening wine and beer.
• Outdoor drinkware – Durable cups, mugs, glasses.

Choose dinnerware designed for outdoor use made from materials like melamine, acrylic, or bamboo. Opt for non-breakable options whenever possible. Match your pots, pans, and utensils to the size of your cooking appliances and anticipated use.

Food Staples & Ingredients

Having delicious food and ingredients on hand is key to enjoying spontaneous gatherings outdoors. Make sure to stock up on these grilling essentials and versatile ingredients:

• Proteins – Chicken, steaks, chops, shrimp, sausage, etc.
• Seafood – Fish fillets, salmon, tuna.
• Vegetables – Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, corn, asparagus.
• Fruits – Peaches, pineapple, watermelon, apples.
• Breads – Burger buns, rolls, flatbreads, pitas.
• Cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, feta, Parmesan.
• Condiments – Ketchup, mustard, mayo, BBQ sauce, hot sauce.
• Herbs & spices – Salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, cumin.
• Marinades & salad dressings – Italian dressing, lemon juice, soy sauce.
• Snacks – Chips, nuts, crackers, dips, olives.
• Drinks – Water, soda, beer, wine, lemonade.

Shop for non-perishable items in bulk to always have them in stock. Perishable proteins and produce can be purchased 1-2 times per week. Having versatile ingredients on hand makes throwing together kabobs, salads, pizzas and other simple meals a breeze.

Kitchen Linens

Outdoor kitchens require some specialty linens for functionality and style. Stock up on these kitchen linens:

• Dish towels – For drying hands and dishes.
• Pot holders & oven mitts – To protect hands from hot pots and pans.
• Aprons – To protect clothes while cooking.
• Tablecloths – Adds style to outdoor dining tables.
• Chair cushions – Provide comfortable seating.
• Outdoor rugs – Define the kitchen space.
• Potholders – Protect surfaces from hot cookware.

Look for linens designed for outdoor use in water-resistant, fade-resistant fabrics. Neutral colors and patterns are easy to mix and match. Having plenty of towels, mitts, and aprons enables you to stay clean while cooking al fresco.

Lighting

Proper lighting ensures you can use your outdoor kitchen day or night. Include these lighting elements:

• Pendant lights – Hang above the grill and prep stations for task lighting.
• Accent lighting – Install under cabinets to illuminate counters.
• Step lights – Illuminate stairways and pathways.
• String lights – Add ambience and illumination overhead.
• Tiki torches – Define the space and add mood lighting.
• Table lamps – For illumination over dining areas.
• Smart lights – Allow you to control lighting from an app.

Choose lighting designed for outdoor use that can withstand the elements. Use a mix of lighting types and styles to fully illuminate all areas of the space. Dimmer switches or smart lights allow you to control brightness as needed.

Storage Solutions

Having adequate secure storage is key for an organized, functional outdoor kitchen. Consider adding:

• Cabinets – Provide enclosed storage for pots, pans, tools.
• Drawers – Good for organizing grilling utensils.
• Shelving – Useful for displaying serving ware.
• Freestanding rack – Provides a place to hang grilling tools within easy reach.
• Outdoor fridge/freezer – Keeps food cold and protected.
• Waterproof containers – Store spices, condiments and foods.
• Lockable cabinets – Secure storage for valuables.

Choose storage made of durable materials like stainless steel, stone, weather-resistant wood, or heavy-duty plastics. Installation, drainage, and ventilation are important factors for any enclosed storage units. Proper storage keeps all your kitchen gear protected and makes items easy to access when cooking.

Safety Equipment

Safety is a top priority when cooking outdoors. Be sure to stock these essential safety items:

• Fire extinguisher – Critical for putting out stove or grill fires.
• First aid kit – Treat minor burns or cuts.
• Insect repellent – Keeps biting bugs at bay.
• Sunscreen – Protect skin from sun damage.
• Heavy duty gloves – Insulate hands from heat.
• Smoke detector – Detects smoke from grill or oven fires.
• Fire blanket – Smothers fires in case of emergency.

Always keep a fully charged fire extinguisher designed for grease/oil fires easily accessible when cooking. Check smoke detector batteries regularly to ensure they function properly. Having important safety gear on hand gives peace of mind for outdoor cooking.

Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture pulls your entire outdoor kitchen together and provides a place to gather. Some furnishings to include are:

• Dining table and chairs – For meals with family and friends.
• Bar-height table and stools – Provides additional seating options.
• Lounge chairs – Create a cozy sitting area.
• Bar cart or beverage cooler – Keep drinks chilled.
• Side/coffee tables – Provide flat surfaces for serving dishes.
• Chaise lounges – For relaxing in comfort.
• Weather-resistant sofas/sectionals – Offer seating around a fire pit.
• Patio umbrellas – Offer shade on sunny days.

Choose outdoor furniture made with weather-resistant materials like teak wood, wicker, aluminum or weather-treated soft woods. Washable fabric cushions make furniture easy to keep clean. Use furniture to create separate zones for cooking, dining, and lounging.

Plants, Greenery & Decor

Plants, greenery, and decor personalize your outdoor living space. Some elements to incorporate include:

• Potted plants and trees – Add color and soften hardscaping.
• Hanging baskets – Draped with flowering vines.
• Herb garden – Grow herbs for cooking right outside your kitchen.
• Succulents – Withstand outdoor conditions well in planters.
• Palm trees – Give a tropical vibe.
• Fire pit or chiminea – Extend evenings outdoors.
• String lights – Outline paths oraccent greenery.
• Planter boxes – With colorful annuals and perennials.

Choose low-maintenance plants suited for your climate. Use containers and planters to create flexibility in rearranging plants seasonally. Greenery and softscaping help tie the entire outdoor living space together.

Recommended Plants for Outdoor Kitchens

Common Name	Botanical Name	Notes
Rosemary	Rosmarinus officinalis	Culinary and ornamental herb
Mint	Mentha	Adds flavor to beverages
Lavender	Lavandula	Fragrant purple flowers
Citronella grass	Cymbopogon nardus	Repels insects
Succulents	Echeveria, Sedum, etc.	Low maintenance & drought tolerant
Geraniums	Pelargonium	Add pops of color

Entertainment

The right entertainment options will ensure your outdoor kitchen gets used often. Consider adding:

• Outdoor speakers – Play music via phone, stereo or smart device.
• TV/projector screen – For watching movies, sports, etc.
• Fire pit – Provides ambience and warmth during cool evenings.
• Weatherproof covers – Allow use of TVs and speakers outdoors.
• Games – Cornhole, giant Jenga, bocce ball, etc.
• Patio heater – Take the chill off when temperatures drop.
• Misting system – Cools you down in sweltering weather.

Create an inviting space where people want to relax for hours. Mood lighting, comfortable seating, music, entertainment and warmth extend the time you can spend outdoors.

Maintenance Tools

A few essential tools will help you care for your outdoor kitchen. Have these on hand:

• Broom & dustpan
• Mop
• Trash bags
• Cleaning spray
• Paper towels
• Garden hose
• Leaf blower
• Pruning shears
• Trowels & hand tools
• Work gloves

Keep your kitchen in tip-top shape by sweeping, mopping, and hosing down surfaces regularly. Prune plants and clear away debris. Proper organization and cleaning make your kitchen more inviting to use for years to come.

Conclusion

Creating your dream outdoor kitchen takes careful planning and stocking it with the right gear. Invest in high-quality appliances and furniture that withstand the elements. Fill your kitchen with cooking necessities, ingredients, accessories, linens, and dishware to cook complete outdoor meals. Comfortable seating, entertainment, lighting, and plants make the space enjoyable to relax in. Organization and maintenance tools keep the kitchen clean and functional. By thoughtfully stocking and caring for all aspects of your outdoor cooking space, you’ll be ready to fully utilize it for outdoor entertaining, parties, and everyday meals.