MultiMC - A great launcher for Minecraft that simplifies installation of plugins and easily handles multiple accounts and profiles. Fioralys reported that it had issues with Microsoft accounts but it works for most of the players so it's still recommended.

Optifine - For much better performance

Forge - You need this for Xaero's plugins and for the voice chat plugin. MultiMC is capable automatically installing Forge without having to download it yourself.

Xaero's Minimap

Xaero's World Map

Simple Voice Chat - Push-to-talk with other players.

Light overlay texture pack - Great for finding where mobs can spawn in your area. Needs Optifine.