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Must-have items for your first apartment grocery list – choose from 201 items to build your ultimate grocery list. From kitchen staples to cleaning supplies, learn how to stock your new home efficiently.

First Apartment Grocery List

I will be honest I have moved three times in five years… So when it comes to a first apartment grocery list I have you covered! Now this list is extended to cover EVERYTHING you would need. BUT Please remove the items you don’t want.

This comprehensive guide covers essential items for your first apartment grocery list, ensuring you have everything you need to eat, clean, and live comfortably in your new home. If you are looking for first apartment kitchen essentials click here to get a 143-item list!

First Apartment Grocery List

Here you will find all the grocery items you would need moving into your first apartment or new home. Trust me I’ve used this list soo many times in my moves. It helps refresh my cabinets and ensures I have all the staples for my family!

Pantry Essentials

Let’s start with the backbone of any well-stocked kitchen: the staples. You know, those items you always seem to need and use in countless recipes.

First up, we’ve got pantry essentials. Rice and pasta are absolute must-haves. They’re versatile, filling, and can be the base for so many meals. Don’t forget to stock up on canned goods too – they’re lifesavers on busy days.

First Apartment Grocery veggie basket

Now, if you’re into baking (or even if you’re not), you’ll want to keep some baking basics on hand. Flour, sugar, and baking powder are the holy trinity of baking. Trust me, you’ll be glad you have them when the sudden urge to whip up some cookies strikes!

Oh, and let’s not forget about spices and seasonings. They’re the secret weapons that can transform a bland dish into a flavour explosion. Start with the basics like salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and build your collection from there.

  1. Rice
  2. Pasta
  3. Quinoa
  4. Canned tomatoes
  5. Canned beans (black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans)
  6. Peanut butter or almond butter
  7. Flour
  8. Sugar
  9. Brown sugar
  10. Baking powder
  11. Baking soda
  12. Vinegar (white, apple cider, balsamic)
  13. Olive oil
  14. Vegetable oil
  15. Soy sauce
  16. Honey
  17. Maple syrup
  18. Hot sauce
  19. Salt
  20. Black pepper
  21. Dried herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
  22. Spices (cinnamon, cumin, paprika, chili powder)
  23. Garlic powder
  24. Onion powder
  25. Stock cubes or cartons (chicken, vegetable, beef)
  26. Instant coffee or coffee beans
  27. Tea bags
  28. Boxed broth
  29. Breadcrumbs
  30. Crackers
  31. Popcorn kernels
  32. Tortillas
  33. Cereal
  34. Granola
  35. Oatmeal
  36. Nut butter alternatives (sunflower butter, tahini)
  37. Shelf-stable milk or milk alternatives
  38. Dried lentils
  39. Couscous
  40. Coconut milk
  41. Tomato paste
  42. Canned corn

Fresh Produce

Moving on to the fresh stuff! Fruits and vegetables are essential for a balanced diet and can really brighten up your meals.

When it comes to buying produce, try to go for what’s in season. It’s usually cheaper and tastes better. And here’s a pro tip: store your fruits and veggies properly to make them last longer. For instance, keep your potatoes and onions in a cool, dark place, but never store them together – they’ll spoil faster!

  1. Potatoes
  2. Sweet potatoes
  3. Onions
  4. Garlic
  5. Carrots
  6. Celery
  7. Tomatoes
  8. Bell peppers
  9. Zucchini
  10. Cucumber
  11. Lettuce or salad greens
  12. Spinach
  13. Broccoli
  14. Cauliflower
  15. Mushrooms
  16. Apples
  17. Bananas
  18. Oranges
  19. Lemons
  20. Limes
  21. Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  22. Grapes
  23. Avocados
  24. Green beans
  25. Asparagus
  26. Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, rosemary, basil)
  27. Seasonal fruits (peaches, pears, watermelon)
  28. Pineapple
  29. Radishes
  30. Cabbage
  31. Fresh ginger
  32. Jalapeños or chili peppers

Frozen Items

  1. Frozen vegetables (peas, corn, mixed vegetables)
  2. Frozen fruit (berries, mango, pineapple)
  3. Frozen pizza
  4. Frozen meals (lasagna, stir-fry)
  5. Frozen fries or hash browns
  6. Ice cream or sorbet
  7. Frozen bread or bagels
  8. Frozen waffles
  9. Frozen seafood (shrimp, fish fillets)
  10. Frozen dumplings
  11. Frozen spinach
  12. Frozen garlic cubes

Dairy and Refrigerated Items

  1. Milk or milk alternatives (almond, oat, soy)
  2. Eggs
  3. Butter or margarine
  4. Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan)
  5. Yogurt
  6. Sour cream
  7. Cream cheese
  8. Heavy cream
  9. Deli meats (ham, turkey, salami)
  10. Tofu or plant-based alternatives
  11. Cottage cheese
  12. String cheese
  13. Pre-packaged salads

Meat, Poultry, and Seafood

Alright, let’s talk protein. If you’re a meat-eater, you’ll want to stock up on some chicken, beef, or pork. Fish and seafood are great options too, especially if you’re looking for leaner protein sources.

For our vegetarian and vegan friends, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh are excellent protein-packed alternatives.

And let’s not forget about eggs and dairy products. They’re not just for breakfast – eggs can be a quick and easy protein source for any meal, and cheese… well, cheese just makes everything better, doesn’t it?

  1. Chicken breasts or thighs
  2. Ground beef or turkey
  3. Steak or pork chops
  4. Sausages
  5. Bacon
  6. Salmon or other fish
  7. Shrimp
  8. Canned tuna or salmon
  9. Meatballs (pre-made or fresh)
  10. Rotisserie chicken

Condiments and Sauces

  1. Ketchup
  2. Mustard
  3. Mayonnaise
  4. Barbecue sauce
  5. Salad dressings (ranch, Italian, vinaigrette)
  6. Soy sauce
  7. Sriracha
  8. Chili paste
  9. Jam or jelly
  10. Relish
  11. Pickles
  12. Hoisin sauce
  13. Worcestershire sauce
  14. Tahini
  15. Pesto

Snacks and Sweets

  1. Chips or pretzels
  2. Granola bars
  3. Protein bars
  4. Cookies
  5. Chocolate (dark, milk)
  6. Nuts (almonds, cashews, peanuts)
  7. Dried fruit (raisins, apricots, dates)
  8. Popcorn (microwave or stovetop)
  9. Trail mix
  10. Candy or gum
  11. Rice cakes
  12. Cheese crackers
  13. Fruit snacks
  14. Energy balls or bites

Baking Supplies

  1. Yeast
  2. Cocoa powder
  3. Cornstarch
  4. Vanilla extract
  5. Chocolate chips
  6. Powdered sugar
  7. Sweetened condensed milk
  8. Evaporated milk
  9. Baking chocolate
  10. Muffin liners
  11. Gelatin

Beverages

Water should be your go-to drink, but it’s nice to have some options. Juice can be a tasty treat, and if you’re a soda drinker, go ahead and grab your favourite fizzy drinks.

  1. Water bottles or reusable water jug
  2. Juice (orange, apple, cranberry)
  3. Soda
  4. Coffee
  5. Tea
  6. Wine or beer (if desired)
  7. Sparkling water
  8. Sports drinks
  9. Hot chocolate mix

First Apartment Grocery List veggies

Cleaning and Kitchen Supplies

Let’s face it, grocery shopping isn’t just about food. You’ve got to keep your kitchen clean too! Make sure you’ve got dish soap, sponges, and all-purpose cleaners on your list.

Oh, and don’t forget the paper towels. Trust me, you don’t want to run out of those at an inconvenient moment!

  1. Dish soap
  2. Sponges
  3. Paper towels
  4. Trash bags
  5. Plastic wrap
  6. Aluminum foil
  7. Storage containers
  8. Resealable bags
  9. Food storage jars
  10. Kitchen towels
  11. Dish rack or drying mat
  12. Disinfectant wipes
  13. All-purpose cleaner
  14. Scrubbing brush
  15. Baking soda (for cleaning)

Miscellaneous Items

  1. Bread
  2. Bagels
  3. English muffins
  4. Tortilla chips
  5. Salsa
  6. Pasta sauce
  7. Instant noodles
  8. Canned soup
  9. Pudding or gelatin mix
  10. Salad kits or pre-cut vegetables
  11. Cheese sticks or slices
  12. Hard-boiled eggs (pre-made or fresh)
  13. Coffee creamer or half-and-half
  14. Pizza dough or crust
  15. Rotisserie chicken (ready-to-eat)
  16. Breakfast bars
  17. Frozen smoothie packs
  18. Oysters or clams (canned or fresh)
  19. Peanut butter cups
  20. Crackers with seeds
  21. Sweet potatoes fries (frozen)
  22. Whole wheat tortillas
  23. Bagged coleslaw mix
  24. Pre-made guacamole
  25. Hummus
  26. Sushi rice
  27. Seaweed snacks
  28. Pre-packaged charcuterie items

Personal Care Items

While we’re on the subject of non-food items, let’s talk personal care. Toilet paper is an absolute must – you do not want to run out of that! Hand soap and basic toiletries should also be on your list.

First Apartment Grocery List pin

Money-Saving Tips for Grocery Shopping

Now, I know grocery shopping can get expensive, so let’s wrap up with some money-saving tips.

First, create a budget. Know how much you can spend and stick to it.

Coupons and apps can be your best friends when it comes to saving money. Take some time to look for deals before you shop.

Lastly, consider buying in bulk when it makes sense. It can save you money in the long run, especially for non-perishable items. Just make sure you have the storage space first!

First Apartment Grocery List Recap

Stocking your first apartment with essential grocery items sets the foundation for a comfortable and well-prepared home. Remember to personalize this list based on your individual needs and preferences, and don’t forget to include any specific items that are important to you. Happy shopping and enjoy your new apartment!

First Apartment Grocery List pins

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