Why The Bear’s Joel McHale Really, Really Likes Knives

We interviewed Joel McHale because we think you'll like his picks. Joel is a paid spokesperson for Rice-A-Roni. E! may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Learn more.

Whether you’ve watched Joel McHale in the Emmy-award winning show The Bear or hosting Crime Scene Kitchen, you can see a pattern emerge. He knows his food, or has at least learned some cooking tips along the way. Oh, and he’s a fan of sharp objects.

In an E! exclusive interview (with its share of hilarious moments), McHale opens up about the kitchen products that may seem obvious, but have been game changers for his meal prep and leftovers. Because when it comes to entertaining, especially around Thanksgiving, “We go all out,” Joel reports. “It’s all wonderfully exhausting!”

But the one side that makes it a little easier, according to the actor, is Rice-A-Roni’s latest innovation, Mac-A-Roni. “A good pasta dish on the side really brings out the flavor of the meat you’re serving. Macaroni and cheese never fails and is always a highlight.” Plus, he adds, “My teenage sons absolutely love this stuff.”

And, if you’re looking for more kitchen recommendations, McHale advises everyone to get a good knife. Or if you need a great kitchen item under $50, Joel recommends a good knife. Looking for a great housekeeping gift? Um... Joel McHale thinks you should bring a good knife. 

Keep scrolling for more of McHale’s sharp picks and kitchen must-haves. They’ll cut your cooking time in half.

What's In Joel McHale's Kitchen:

A Good, Sharp Kitchen Knife

Backed by over 9,700 5-star Amazon reviews, this multi-purpose chef's knife can help with so many tasks in the kitchen. With a sharp stainless steel blade, it cuts, dices, slices, and chops, and comes in its own box.

More from Joel: "So many people go through life without a sharp kitchen knife. It’s an essential for anyone cooking at home, no matter if they’re whipping up the basics or have more experience."

Aluminum Foil

McHale reports, "It feels obvious, but it keeps food fresh and is an absolute essential. I can’t imagine my kitchen without it!" Grab this roll with an easy-to-tear edge and a stellar 4.8-star rating from 21,000+ fans.

More from Joel: "boy, it keeps that food fresh."

Mac-A-Roni in the Pantry

Since McHale's kids love the stuff, McHale says, "I keep both Creamy Cheddar and Creamy White Cheddar Mac-A-Roni on hand."

Since McHale's kids love the stuff, McHale says, "I keep both Creamy Cheddar and Creamy White Cheddar Mac-A-Roni on hand."

Kitchen Scissors

You'll find some kitchen scissors in McHale's drawers because, "It’s simple - a good pair is a game changer." This top-rated option is comfortable, durable, and even comes with a protective sheath.

Nonstick Pan

Take it from Joel, "Every great chef needs a reliable nonstick pan." This 10-inch fry pan is a great place to start, with a nonstick coating, removable silicone grip, and easy-to-clean design.

A Meat Thermometer

"I love cooking a good steak, so I always have a meat thermometer on hand," McHale reports. Get results in 5 seconds with this thermometer option that comes with over 102,100 5-star Amazon reviews. 

More From Joel: "Double medium rare is definitely the way to go."

Peanut Brittle

"This is my go-to when I need a sweet treat, so I always keep some in the pantry," McHale reports. "It’s the perfect mix of savory and sweet." Reviewers rave that this is the "best peanut brittle ever."

We loved to hate you in The Bear, did you pick any cooking tips on set?

"Ha, I wish! I learned there’s a lot of training to become a professional chef, especially a good one. The level of precision... man. I will say, in the first season, I watched how fine dining restaurants would call out orders to prepare their meals, and that’s one thing I recreate in my own kitchen, although it’s usually followed by my teenagers making fun of me."

You were a longtime host of E!’s The Soup (which we miss) – how do you eat your soup?

"Wow, I loved doing The Soup – those were the days. I’m definitely a “slurper” and my wife lets me know it, too. Things I slurp; pho, I eat a lot of that. I slurp my pasta, too."

Slurp your soup like Joel with these soup spoons. Every set comes with 12, and the sleek, elegant design pairs with any kitchen aesthetic.

What’s one kitchen essential you should always buy on sale?

"Buy anything you can on sale, honestly, unless of course it’s expired canned fish."

What’s one kitchen gadget under $50 that you think everyone should have?

"Any knife. A short knife, and a longer one, and a bread knife, always have those ready to go because it will make your life smoother and simpler." This serrated option is great for bread, meat, cheese, and more.

What's your favorite Thanksgiving side? 

If you’re roasting a turkey for six hours, Mac-A-Roni is a great option because it’s tasty and easy to make. You can leave it to the end so it’s fresh. There’s a reason pasta is so popular all around the world!"

What’s your go-to housewarming gift?

"A good kitchen knife. You think I’m joking! Sometimes you can give bottles of wine, but a good, sharp knife for your kitchen is really important and saves lots of time." Why not get a lot of knives? This 14-piece set comes with a sharpener and a block to keep them all in. 

Looking for some kitchen deals? Then check out these 20 products that Amazon can't keep in stock.

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