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    Home » Best Of

    Skip The Packets and Prep Your Pantry With These Must-Have 24 Recipes

    Sarita Harbour.
    Modified: May 4, 2025 by Sarita Harbour · This post may contain affiliate links·
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    Stocking your pantry with homemade basics can save time, money, and a trip to the store. These must-have recipes are perfect for creating your own staples, offering freshness and control over ingredients. They’re simple to prepare, making them an easy upgrade from store-bought options. Whether it’s for quick meals or everyday essentials, these recipes help keep the kitchen running smoothly. With a well-prepped pantry, you’ll always be ready to whip up something delicious.

    Easy Texas Smoked Turkey Breast

    Pin
    Easy Texas Smoked Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Eat Your Beets.

    This Texas-style smoked turkey breast is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. It’s one of those must-have recipes that combines simplicity with a homemade feel everyone will love.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Texas Smoked Turkey Breast

    Easy Mason Jar Soup Mix Recipe

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    Easy Mason Jar Soup Mix Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Creating a mason jar soup mix is a practical way to prepare comforting meals in advance. This is a must-have recipe for anyone wanting quick, homemade options without sacrificing flavor or quality.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Mason Jar Soup Mix Recipe

    Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

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    Chicken Schnitzel Recipe. Photo credit: Veena Azmanov Kitchen.

    Chicken schnitzel is crispy, tender, and versatile, making it a hit with family and friends. It’s a must-have recipe for busy nights when you want something delicious with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

    Easy Spicy Dill Pickle Spears Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Spicy Dill Pickle Spears Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These spicy dill pickle spears add a bold kick to any meal or snack. They’re a must-have recipe for pickle enthusiasts who love homemade, flavorful options that are easy to prepare.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Dill Pickle Spears Recipe

    Easy Step-by-Step Sourdough Pizza Dough Recipe

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    Easy Step-by-Step Sourdough Pizza Dough Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Making sourdough pizza dough at home is easier than you think with this recipe. It’s a must-have for pizza nights, giving you a flavorful crust that beats store-bought every time.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Step-by-Step Sourdough Pizza Dough Recipe

    Condensed Milk Dinner Rolls

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    Condensed Milk Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These soft and fluffy dinner rolls use condensed milk for an extra special texture. They’re a must-have recipe for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or even simple weeknight meals.
    Get the Recipe: Condensed Milk Dinner Rolls

    Quick and Easy Pickled Red Onions

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    Quick and Easy Pickled Red Onions. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These pickled red onions are tangy, crunchy, and ready in no time. They’re a must-have recipe for topping tacos, salads, or burgers, adding a punch of flavor with minimal prep.
    Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Pickled Red Onions

    Strawberry Syrup Recipe

    Pin
    Strawberry Syrup Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This strawberry syrup is perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream. It’s a must-have recipe for anyone who enjoys a touch of sweetness made with fresh, simple ingredients.
    Get the Recipe: Strawberry Syrup Recipe

    Mason Jar Pancake Recipe: Easy Homemade Gift

    Pin
    Mason Jar Pancake Recipe: Easy Homemade Gift. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Mason jar pancake mixes make a thoughtful, homemade gift that’s quick to put together. This must-have recipe is great for sharing or keeping on hand for easy breakfasts.
    Get the Recipe: Mason Jar Pancake Recipe: Easy Homemade Gift

    Gluten Free Mayonnaise Recipe

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    Gluten Free Mayonnaise Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This homemade mayonnaise is creamy and easy to whip up with basic ingredients. It’s a must-have recipe for fresh, customizable condiments without unnecessary additives.
    Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Mayonnaise Recipe

    How to Make Homemade Marshmallows Without Cornstarch

    Pin
    How to Make Homemade Marshmallows Without Cornstarch. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These homemade marshmallows are fluffy, sweet, and corn-free, making them perfect for s’mores or hot cocoa. They’re a must-have recipe for anyone who loves crafting their own treats.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make Homemade Marshmallows Without Cornstarch

    How to Make Sourdough Starter Without Yeast

    Pin
    How to Make Sourdough Starter Without Yeast. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    A sourdough starter without yeast is a rewarding project that adds natural flavor to your baking. It’s a must-have recipe for anyone wanting to explore traditional bread-making techniques.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make Sourdough Starter Without Yeast

    Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    This no-knead cheese bread is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a must-have recipe for when you want homemade bread with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade No-Knead Artisan Cheese Bread Recipe

    Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe

    Pin
    Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This sandwich bread recipe is affordable, simple, and perfect for everyday use. It’s a must-have recipe for anyone embracing budget-friendly baking at home.
    Get the Recipe: Frugal Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe

    Quick and Easy Garlic Dill Pickle Canning Recipe

    Pin
    Quick and Easy Garlic Dill Pickle Canning Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These garlic dill pickles are crisp and full of flavor, perfect for preserving garden cucumbers. It’s a must-have recipe for those who love stocking their pantry with homemade treats.
    Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Garlic Dill Pickle Canning Recipe

    Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind Recipe

    Pin
    Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    Turn watermelon rinds into a sweet-and-sour snack with this unique recipe. It’s a must-have for anyone who enjoys reducing waste and getting creative in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind Recipe

    Best Easy Oatmeal Cookies

    Pin
    Best Easy Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: Recipes From a Pantry.

    These oatmeal cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for a quick dessert or snack. They’re a must-have recipe for baking staples that never go out of style.
    Get the Recipe: Best Easy Oatmeal Cookies

    Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam

    Pin
    Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Maple bacon bourbon jam is rich, smoky, and ideal for spreading on toast or burgers. It’s a must-have recipe for anyone looking to add something unique to their homemade condiments.
    Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam

    Sourdough Discard Tortillas

    Pin
    Sourdough Discard Tortillas. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These sourdough discard tortillas are soft, pliable, and perfect for wraps or tacos. They’re a must-have recipe for making the most of your sourdough starter leftovers.
    Get the Recipe: Sourdough Discard Tortillas

    Chicken Jerky Recipe

    Pin
    Chicken Jerky Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Homemade chicken jerky is a protein-packed snack that’s both flavorful and convenient. It’s a must-have recipe for anyone who enjoys making their own healthy, portable treats.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Jerky Recipe

    How to Make and Can Strawberry Jam

    Pin
    How to Make and Can Strawberry Jam. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This strawberry jam is fresh, fruity, and easy to can for long-term storage. It’s a must-have recipe for anyone wanting to enjoy the taste of summer year-round.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make and Can Strawberry Jam

    Sourdough Discard Crackers

    Pin
    Sourdough Discard Crackers. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These sourdough discard crackers are crunchy and perfect for snacking or pairing with dips. They’re a must-have recipe for reducing food waste while creating something delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Sourdough Discard Crackers

    How to Make Homemade Pancake Syrup

    Pin
    How to Make Homemade Pancake Syrup. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This homemade pancake syrup is simple, sweet, and perfect for breakfast. It’s a must-have recipe for anyone who prefers pantry staples made from scratch.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make Homemade Pancake Syrup

    How to Make Homemade Applesauce + Free Printable

    Pin
    How to Make Homemade Applesauce + Free Printable. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This homemade applesauce is wholesome, easy to make, and great for kids or baking. It’s a must-have recipe for embracing fresh, seasonal ingredients in your kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: How to Make Homemade Applesauce + Free Printable

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    Sarita Harbour.

    I'm Sarita. My family and I lived off the grid for 11 years in Canada's far north. If I did it, you can too.

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