Reddit mentions of Paula Deen Signature Cutlery 2-Piece Japanese Stainless Steel Santoku Knife Set

The rest of these comments are great. I'm adding stuff I haven't specifically seen (or missed). Also, I don't know what your budget is, so I'm going to add a few items that you might want to get later if you can't get them now, but are still great to have.

As others mentioned, Dollar stores are great. Not only do they have cheapo stuff, they can be a great place to pick up cheapo cutlery and plates if you're desperate and really short on cash. IKEA is also an excellent go-to for basic furniture items (and everything else - especially their 365+ pots and pans series), and if you check craigslist for IKEA items, you can usually get them dirt cheap or free.

Here're my must-have items:

1. A good, sharp knife for food prep. You really only need the one at first. Over time, if you need it, you can get additional knives, like paring, boning, serrated, etc. It should be medium in size, and should not cost you an arm and a leg. I really like santoku knives for basic all-purpose prep. They're great for chopping fruit and veg. I like Paula Deen's for middle of the road quality and price. You can get them cheaper, though, if you need to. Don't forget a good cutting board. Plastic is good, recycled plastic is better.
   
   
2. Food storage containers. I love glass anchor hocking food storage containers. They're great for everything - prep, storage, reheating, and the glass part (not the lids) are oven safe if memory serves. They're awesome multi-use things. They're also dishwasher safe, don't stain, and don't retain food smells. They last forever.
   
   
3. Basic tool-set. IKEA sells a standard one (replete with allen-wrench attachment) that includes a hammer, screwdriver with interchangeable bits, and a wrench, I think. You'll also need or want a drill at some point, but a cheap good one will set you back $50. You can get drills and electric screw drivers at IKEA, but you should save your money. The basic kit is solid, but I don't recommend investing in electric tools there.
   
   
4. Lamps. You'll almost definitely need a few standing lamps. IKEA, again, is great for these, as well as craigslist.
   
   
5. Towels. I can't stand scratchy towels, or thin ones. Getting good towels is something of an art form, but the towels I've been gifted from Kmart and Walmart have stood the test of time, and are an absolute bargain.
   
   
6. LED lightbulbs. These are an investment, but they last forever. Skip IKEA and go to Home Depot (or check online) for better deals.
   
   
7. Batteries. Because you never freaking know. AA are the most common, but C batteries are most often used in smoke detectors.
   
   
8. Basic cleaning supplies. Some kind of all-purpose spray (you can use it in the kitchen, in the bathroom, where ever), and glass cleaner if you're feeling fancy. Here's the thing - buying cheapo off-brand cleaning supplies is a waste of money, and branded cleaning supplies are insanely expensive. You really only need the all purpose to start with. I get a couple of sponges and call it a day.
   
   
9. Hand soap. Try and find sales or buy the big industrial jug to refill dispensers. Foodstores are usually better for this than drugstores or home goods stores.
   
   
10. Ice cube trays.
    
    For all big furniture, (couches, dining sets, tv stands, desks, bookshelves, end tables, etc), check craigslist and IKEA. I think way too much about this stuff, so if you like this list and you want more suggestions or specific product recommendations, hit me up.