There might be no better time than winter to cozy up with comforting meals, and we know (from experience) that a well-stocked pantry can make all the difference when the cold temperatures hit. Having those essential items on hand will not only save you a trip to the grocery store, but also allow you to whip up hearty stews, pot pies, or even simple pasta dishes at a moment’s notice. So I’m here to share with you my top picks for pantry essentials for the winter season—and how to make the most of them. But first…

Remember to Winter Cook with What You Have

Winter cooking is fun, but let’s not forget to use what’s already in our pantry to make those comforting meals! (This is especially helpful for those of you who tend to be homebound due to blizzards during the winter.) 

A can of black beans, for example, can become a hearty soup with just a few cups of chicken stock, some chopped root vegetables, and a sprinkle of curry powder. What about that lonely can of pumpkin puree? Mix it with coconut milk, a touch of cinnamon, and a spoonful of miso paste, and you’ve got a velvety soup that feels gourmet with minimal effort.

If you know anything about Steamy Kitchen, you know we love applying our Reverse Meal Plan concept to winter cooking. And that means instead of planning meals and shopping for specific ingredients, you take stock of what you already have and build meals around those items. It’s a great way to reduce food waste and save money while challenging yourself to get creative with pantry meals.

For example:

• Found in the Pantry: A can of chickpeas, a jar of curry paste, and coconut milk.
• Reverse Meal Idea: Toss the chick peas into a curry paste and coconut milk sauce, then serve over rice for a plant-based meal that’s ready in no time.
• Bonus Tip: Throw in any leftover fresh produce you have, like spinach or diced carrots, to bulk it up.

This is particularly handy when colder temperatures make grocery store runs a lot less appealing. With a well-stocked pantry, you’re prepared for just about anything, including a winter storm, or even just a hankering for warm comfort food. By embracing what’s already in your pantry, you can create simple, cozy meals that fit your mood and whatever available ingredients you have lying around. 

And with that…

Here are My Favorite Winter Pantry Staples

Canned Tomatoes (Crushed, Diced, or Whole)

A can of tomatoes is a winter cooking must-have. Why? They have a long shelf life and are the perfect foundation for so many comforting meals like pasta sauces, hearty stews, and pantry meals when your fresh produce is running low. Whether you’re making a classic marinara or a spicy chili, canned tomatoes are a great option for adding depth to your dishes.
Pro Tip: Mix canned tomatoes with tomato paste and balsamic vinegar for a quick, rich tomato sauce. Throw in some various shapes of pasta for an easy meal on a chilly day.

Whole Grains (Brown Rice, Wild Rice, and Wheat Berries)

Whole grains are a great source of protein and fiber, which makes them a healthy choice for hearty winter meals. Brown rice and wild rice pair beautifully with vegetable stocks or chicken stock for soups and grain bowls, while wheat berries add a satisfying chew to salads and pilafs.
Why Stock Up: They have a long shelf life and are perfect for those cold days when you want to create something both filling and nutritious. And, bonus! They’re versatile enough to work with almost any leftover fresh ingredients. 

Nut Butters (Peanut, Almond, or Cashew)

Nut butters aren’t just for sandwiches anymore. Packed with fatty acids and protein, they’re also a good idea for when you need a quick energy boost, and they make for a perfect addition to both sweet and savory dishes.
Ideas: Use peanut butter in curry powder-based sauces, almond butter in smoothie bowls, or cashew butter as a creamy base for homemade dressings. They’re also shelf-stable foods, so they’re great for long-term food storage.

Miso Paste

Miso paste is my secret weapon for winter cooking because it adds umami, depth, and complexity to all kinds of dishes. And a little goes a long way, which makes it a great price-per-use item for your pantry.
How to Use It: Stir a spoonful of miso paste into chicken stock or vegetable stocks for a savory, comforting soup. It’s also a great way to boost the flavor of marinades, salad dressings, or even mashed potatoes. On a cold day, whisk it with hot water and a touch of soy sauce for an instant warming broth.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is another one of my favorite cold-weather pantry staples. It transforms simple soups, curries, and even baked goods into creamy, comforting treats. It’s also a lifesaver whenever you’re craving a warm, Thai-inspired curry or need a dairy-free alternative in recipes.
How to Use It: Combine coconut milk with chickpeas, canned tomatoes, and curry powder for an easy way to create a hearty, plant-based stew. Trust me. You’ll want to add this to your shopping list every winter season!

Bonus: Canned Pumpkin

Canned pumpkin isn’t just for pie! This versatile pantry staple is loaded with vitamin K and has a long shelf life.
How to Use It: Stir canned pumpkin into pasta sauces or risottos for a creamy, nutritious upgrade. Or, mix it with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to make a quick pumpkin butter for toast or oatmeal. It’s also great for all kinds of baked goods, and will last a lot longer than the real thing.

Bonus Tips for a Well-Stocked Winter Pantry

• Keep dry goods like lentils, kidney beans, and black beans on hand for quick, protein-packed soups and stews.
• Stock up on apple cider vinegar and soy sauce for making yummy dressings and marinades.
• Don’t forget shelf-stable milk or powdered milk as a backup for baking and hot drinks like cocoa or hot lemon tea.
• Grab sale items like canned chickpeas or canned tomatoes during grocery shopping trips to save money.

Ready to Stock Up?

Having a well-stocked winter pantry is the best way to reduce food waste, save money, and ensure you’re prepared to make comforting meals no matter the weather. With these pantry staples, you’ll be ready to tackle any recipe—or winter storm—that comes your way.

What are some of your favorite foods or pantry staples for this time of year? Got a favorite cozy winter-time meal? Share it with us in the comments! We love to hear from you. 

Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Giveaway

Stock up for winter with our Top 5 Pantry Staples and get a chance to win a Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven—perfect for cozy, hearty meals. One lucky winner will take it home! Enter to win below!