How to Start a Pantry: Easy Steps from Grateful Acres Farmstead

Here at Grateful Acres Farmstead, we’re all about making the most of what God’s given us, especially in the kitchen.

I remember when I first set up our pantry—jars of homegrown herbs and a few staples gave me peace of mind knowing we’d always have something to cook.

Starting a pantry can feel overwhelming, but trust me, it’s easier than you think, and it’s kind of fun to see it come together. Let’s walk through some simple steps to get your pantry started, plus a free tool we’ve got to help you out.

Why a Pantry Matters

A pantry is your kitchen’s backbone. It saves you from last-minute grocery runs, helps you whip up meals with what you’ve got, and lets you stock up on what your family loves. Whether you’re in southern Missouri like us or anywhere else, a well-stocked pantry is a practical way to be ready for busy days, tight budgets, or unexpected company.

Easy Steps to Start Your Pantry

No need to overthink it—here’s how to get going:

1. Assess Your Space

Look around your kitchen or home for a spot to store food. It doesn’t have to be fancy—a shelf, a cupboard, or even a corner with bins works. Start with what you’ve got. Clear it out and make sure it’s clean and dry.

2. Think About What You Eat

Make a list of meals your family enjoys. Love pasta? Stock noodles and sauce. Big on breakfast? Get oats and pancake mix. At our farmstead, we keep staples like flour, beans, and home-dried herbs for hearty dishes. Focus on foods you’ll actually use—no sense in buying stuff that’ll just sit there.

3. Start with the Basics

Begin small with versatile staples:

• Grains: Rice, pasta, flour, or oats.

• Canned Goods: Beans, tomatoes, or veggies.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or our favorite, Country Gravy Mix, which you can make from scratch.

• Oils and Sweeteners: Olive oil, honey, or sugar.

• Dry Goods: Lentils, dried fruit, or nuts.

Buy a little at a time to avoid breaking the bank. Check sales or bulk bins to save money.

4. Add Some Flavor

Spices and flavorings make all the difference. We love making our own to keep things fresh and frugal. Our Country Gravy Mix recipe is a great example—simple ingredients you probably already have, perfect for biscuits or chicken. Experiment with homemade spice blends to personalize your pantry.

Find more seasoning recipes and ideas here!

5. Organize and Store Smart

Keep things tidy so you can find what you need. Use jars, bins, or baskets to group similar items. Label everything—trust me, it saves time. Store grains and spices in airtight containers to keep them fresh. Check your pantry monthly to use up older items and restock what’s low.

6. Build It Slowly

You don’t need a perfect pantry overnight. Add a few items each grocery trip, and before you know it, you’ll have a solid setup. Include some homegrown or homemade goods if you can—it’s rewarding. We dry our own herbs and make spice mixes, which adds a personal touch.

Still Feeling Stuck? Grab Our Free Pantry Guide

We’ve put together a free pantry guide to make this even easier. It’s got checklists, tips, and ideas to help you plan and stock your pantry like we do here in the Ozarks. Download it here and start building a pantry that works for you.

Starting a pantry is like setting up a little kitchen safety net.

It’s satisfying to see your shelves fill up and know you’re ready for anything—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or surprise guests. Plus, making your own flavorings, like our Homemade Taco Seasoning, adds a creative spark to cooking. You’ll feel like a homesteader in no time.

Looking for more tips in the kitchen?

Check out our shop or swing by our YouTube channel for more tips from the farmstead.