11/02/2026
Listen… I used to despise our spice cabinet. Random blends we bought for one recipe, five different brands of chili powder, half-used jars shoved in the back. And don’t even get me started on trying to FIND anything.
Once I switched to making my own seasoning mixes and actually organizing my jars, I could open the cabinet and feel happy and calm instead of overstimulated. My pantry finally looks intentional, everything is easy to grab, and it saves real money. Buying spices in bulk and mixing your own blends can cut the cost by 30–70% compared to those tiny $5–$7 bottles and packets at the store. The math adds up fast when you cook as much as we do.
Tips for Stocking a Pantry (Especially if You’re Just Getting Started):
• Start with what your family eats weekly, aka your go-to spices, baking staples, pasta, rice, beans, oils, broth, etc. Build from there.
• Invest in a good spice jar set + labels. A matching set instantly makes your pantry look put together, and labels are a game changer. I keep mine alphabetized on clear risers, zero digging, zero guessing, zero “where did I put the cumin?!”
• Use the same labels for bigger jars. Quart mason jars are perfect for larger batches of homemade seasoning mixes, dried herbs from the garden, and tea blends. When everything matches, it’s easier to find and prettier to look at.
• Group similar items together: baking, spices, canned goods, snacks, grains, coffee/tea, grab-and-go ingredients, etc. If you know where it lives, you’ll actually keep it stocked.
Swipe through for some of my favorite recipes! What’s your favorite thing about your pantry? And if you have any tried and true mix recipes, I’m sure I can speak for everyone when I say please share! I’ll put my favorite pantry organization jars and labels in the comments.
- Meg
