Top 15 Best Dutch Oven Reviews
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The development of the material industry has created many new commodities. In that flow, stainless steel and glass gradually covered kitchen utensils as an inevitable trend and seemed to knock even the best Dutch ovens out of the kitchen.
Many people consider this phenomenon as an expression of modernity. However, the Dutch ovens can tell you another story about cast iron pots with a history of 300 years and are still widely praised by many users as the best cooking pot until now.
In keeping with modern kitchens, Dutch ovens have improved a lot, but the love for this kind of cookware, surprisingly, has not changed over the generations of homemakers.
Dutch Ovens – Not Just a Valuable Inheritance
From Europe, Dutch ovens followed people who discovered new lands to the Americas and explored the great American frontier together.
A Dutch oven is an excellent pot for slow cooking with a thick wall and a tight-fit lid, mainly made by seasoned cast iron.
People could also put charcoal on the lids of their Dutch ovens to simultaneously heat food from above and below, as the oven does. Adjusting the amount of coal helped increase and decrease the internal temperature. That’s why the name “oven” has been attached to it.
For hundreds of years, Dutch ovens have been used as cooking vessels and considered as multi-tasking cookware, which is ideal for braising and also excellent for baking and making soups and stews. Mostly recipes for conventional oven cooking can be done with a Dutch oven.
Around the 18th and 19th centuries, Dutch ovens were so valuable that they were often included in the legacy of the will for the next generation. However, nowadays, people are only interested in the features making the Dutch ovens more multi-task and decorative.
In short, Dutch ovens are one of the best cooking tools in the world as recognized by many people, even many chefs, and luckily, they do not require you to spend a huge amount of money.
Benefits of Using Dutch Ovens
The great thickness and weight of the Dutch ovens make them very great in heat conduction and retention, so people still call their names over the years when making large cuts of meat, quarts of cooking liquid, or toasting bread.
Due to its ability to distribute heat evenly, a Dutch oven is ideal for searing meat at high temperatures and maintaining low-and-slow cooking heat for a long time, perfect for making braises, stews, and chilis and much more.
A good Dutch oven will work for years, and you do not have to pay a fortune as well to own this long-lasting and effective service. Therefore, if you have never used a Dutch oven, I realize that there is no reason for you not to buy one.
Common Types of Dutch Ovens
Dutch ovens have many names, the most common other name is a French oven. Dutch ovens also have many characteristics similar to traditional pots in Japan, the Balkan area, South Africa, Australia, and Spain.
In modern times, cast iron is not the only material used to produce Dutch ovens. Many other materials have also participated in this process, giving users more choices, but at the same time, each material has its disadvantages.
Bare Cast Iron
Bare cast-iron Dutch ovens need to be seasoned like other cast-iron cookware and can easily be re-seasoned if necessary.
Bare cast-iron Dutch ovens are also very heavy and durable, which may last a lifetime. This is also the kind of Dutch oven giving food the most delicious taste that I admire.
Enameled Cast Iron
Enameled cast-iron Dutch ovens are a lot more convenient for users when you can use acidic ingredients from the beginning and do not need to season these Dutch ovens.
Enameled ovens are also very heavy. However, they cannot keep some of the other benefits of bare cast iron and the enamel can be cracked and has weak resistance to scratches.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel Dutch ovens are easy to clean and maintain, but their lids are usually not tight enough. Stainless steel is not good for heat retention as other materials as well, which affects your dish quality.
Ceramic
Ceramic is the lightest material used for making Dutch ovens, but it is still great for stews and baking bread. However, the drawback of ceramic is that they will crack or break due to high-temperature changes or being dropped.
In order to use Dutch ovens for a long time, you need to pay attention to care and storage, especially with bare cast-iron and enameled Dutch ovens.
The Necessary Care for Dutch Ovens
Among the Dutch ovens listed above, the care for stainless steel and ceramic Dutch ovens is similar to other types of cookware. Therefore, this section will focus on maintaining cast iron Dutch ovens for ease of use and longevity.
1. Bare Cast-Iron Dutch Oven:
Seasoning a bare cast-iron Dutch oven is very important to keep the non-stick surface’s effectiveness and needs to be regularly performed. Here is the brief of what you should do:
- After use, to clean a bare cast-iron Dutch oven, you should use boiling water, a soft brush or sponge, and avoid acidic ingredients;
- Dry thoroughly;
- Brush a thin layer of molten oil or vegetable oil on the pan;
- Place the Dutch oven upside down on the oven rack and bake at 350°C for one hour;
- Allow cooling in the oven.
You can refer to this video to know more about how to season a cast-iron skillet well:
To encourage air circulation and to prevent the smell and taste of rancid oil, a cleaned and freshly seasoned Dutch oven should be stored in a clean, dry location with the lid ajar.
Remember always to keep your bare cast-iron Dutch oven completely dry when not in use to prevent moisture from getting onto the surface and cause rusting.
2. Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven:
Cleaning enameled ovens are simpler as they only require cleaning like ordinary cooking utensils. Some enameled coated ovens can be safe for use with the dishwasher, but I recommend hand washing to keep a longer-lasting enamel.
Other notes when using enameled cast-iron dutch ovens include:
- Do not preheat dry
Nothing will make the surface of the enamel crack faster than preheating with nothing in it, which will allow the liquid to seep into the cast iron surface, causing rust and damaging the non-stick surface.
- Follow the maximum temperature guide from the manufacturer
- Use parchment paper when baking to reduce cake sticking on the bottom layer
For both bare and enameled cast-iron Dutch ovens, rapid shrinkage of cooling cast iron may warp or crack the ovens or cause chips of enamel to pop out. Thus, placing a hot Dutch oven in a tub of cold water can lead to damage due to the thermal shock.
Do not hesitate to replace your Dutch oven if the yeast cracks or the popped-out chips become larger.
Here Are The Best Dutch Ovens:
With the focus on convenience, the list of products below will help you choose the best Dutch ovens products that are most helpful and most suited for your cooking.
- Best Overall: Lodge EC6D43 6-Quart Dutch Oven
“The thick and glossy porcelain enamel helps you to clean quickly and easily.” - Best for Budget: AmazonBasics ZS632A 5-Quart Dutch Oven
“Cheaper than any other cast iron pots but thick, heavy and retain heat well.” - Best With Skillet Lid: Lodge L8DD3 5-Quart Dutch Oven
“1.25-inch skillet lid is easy for you to carry out all your cooking ideas.” - Best Enameled: AmazonBasics SX-45QTG 4.3-Quart Dutch Oven
“Good heat retention, good sealing in moisture with the heavy lid.” - Best Non-Stick: Simply Calphalon 1776660 7-Quart Dutch Oven
“The non-stick interior for easy to release and clean-up.” - Best Stainless Steel: Cooks Standard 02518 7-Quart Dutch Oven
“Durable stainless steel material is dishwasher safe, easy to clean and maintain.” - Best Oval: Tramontina 80131/077DS 5.5-Quart Dutch Oven
“An elegant, average-sized table serving option with an oval shape.” - Best for Camping: Overmont OHS-OM-Dutch Oven-M 6-Quart Dutch Oven
“Integral legs on both pot and lid is meticulously designed for the campfire’s perfect moments.” - Best for Baking Sourdough Bread: Lodge L8DOL3 5-Quart Dutch Oven
“Consistent high heat makes your baking process successful with less effort.” - Best for Soup: Le Creuset LS2501-2867 7.25-Quart Dutch Oven
“The high-grade cast iron and a very tight lid help the slow-cooking soup process stable and even.” - Best for Frying: Cuisinel 8541900848 3-Quart Dutch Oven
“2-in-1 skillet and lid is suitable for all frying recipes.” - Best With Legs: Lodge L14DCO3 10-Quart Dutch Oven
“Despite the large pot volume, the legs still allow the pot to stay firmly above the heat source.” - Best With Glass Lid: Calphalon 1932450 5-Quart Dutch Oven
“A sturdy glass lid along with a pour spout are great for saving time when preparing food.” - Best With Thermometer: Combekk 100128DG 6.3-Quart Dutch Oven
“Control the temperature of the dish easy to get perfect results every time.” - Best With Steamer: Oster 111922.03 6-Quart Dutch Oven
“Encourages users to make healthier dishes, such as steamed or boiled dishes.”
Best Dutch Ovens Comparison Chart
The comparison chart below will show you the necessary information about some best Dutch ovens for you to easily compare and choose:
Top 15 Best Dutch Oven Reviews
With more detailed descriptions, pros and cons, evaluations, and experiences about using some best Dutch ovens on the market above, this part will be very supportive for making a more precise decision and being satisfied with your chosen Dutch oven.
1. Lodge EC6D43 6-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best Overall)
The Lodge EC6D43 6-Quart Dutch Oven is easily conquered and won many users’ hearts because of its harmony in many aspects, from eye-catching beauty to diverse cooking ability and quality.
The thick and glossy porcelain enamel is the promise for delicious and cozy meals for the whole family that every homemaker can feel.
Key Features
- Cast in individual sand molds
- Three layers of porcelain enamel
- Stainless steel knob
- Smooth glass surface
- 75 inches diameter, 4.5 inches deep
Pros
- The glass surface does not react to ingredients, safe for cooking
- Evenly heating bottom sidewalls and even the lid
- Good heat retention, good sealing in moisture with the tight lid
- Used on gas, electric, ceramic, induction cooktops, and in the oven
Cons
- Not for use in microwaves and on outdoor grills or over open outdoor flames
- Not suitable for cooking rice
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 14 x 7 x 12 inches |
| Weight of the item | 14.75 pounds |
| Color | Red |
| Safe temperature | 500oF |
| Manufacturer | Lodge |
Personal Experience
The Lodge’s thick and heavy wall and very tight lid of the EC6D43 6-Quart Dutch Oven provide an even and efficient heat distribution. High-quality enamel varnish also helps you to clean quickly and easily.
Many users may be happy that they can rely on the Lodge EC6D43 to cook a wide variety of foods, from stir-fry to roasted dishes, and have no more worry about dry-breasted, raw-legged chicken.
The below video will help me to tell you more about the Lodge EC6D43 6-Quart Dutch Oven:
2. AmazonBasics ZS632A 5-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best for Budget)
Bare cast-iron Dutch ovens are often thick and heavy, well-known for their ability to retain heat well and help preserve the original flavor of food.
While being cheaper than any other cast iron pots, the AmazonBasics ZS632A 5-Quart Dutch Oven comes with specific product care instructions that will help users enjoy delicious meals without worrying too much about how to maintain a Dutch oven.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty cast iron
- Pre-seasoned
- Easy-lifting handles
- Beautiful black patina surface
- Hand wash only
Pros
- Suitable for all cooking surfaces
- Versatile for many types of cooking
- Retains heat well and distributes it evenly thanks to the heavy-duty material
Cons
- Avoid dragging to protect the ceramic or glass cooking surfaces
- The bare cast-iron material requires regular seasoning and thorough care
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 12.48 x 10.04 x 6.89 inches |
| Weight of the item | 10.98 pounds |
| Color | Natural cast iron |
| Safe temperature | 500oF |
| Manufacturer | AmazonBasics |
Personal Experience
If you love baking with cast iron cookware, you will feel comfortable with the AmazonBasics ZS632A 5-Quart Dutch Oven. If you have a small and medium family, the size of the AmazonBasics ZS632A is also suitable for meals with all people.
At an affordable price, you probably will not get a larger Dutch oven or a sleeker look, but you get all you need most from a good pot.
3. Lodge L8DD3 5-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best With Skillet Lid)
Dutch ovens are inherently versatile products for many recipes. With the Lodge L8DD3 5-Quart Dutch Oven, the versatility and convenience are taken to a new level.
The pot lid part can be turned into a skillet, making it easy for you to carry out all your cooking ideas without buying too many utensils.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty cast iron
- Pre-seasoned
- Easy-lifting handles
- 25-inch skillet lid
- Hand wash only
Pros
- Suitable for all cooking surfaces
- The domed cover is excellent for roasts and non-knead bread making
- Conducts heat evenly and retains heat well thanks to the cast-iron material
Cons
- There is no handle on the lid top, which is a bit difficult to lift the lid up, and care needs to be taken to avoid steam burns
- The bare cast-iron material requires regular seasoning and thorough care
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 12.62 x 10.38 x 6.3 inches |
| Weight of the item | 12.37 pounds |
| Color | Natural cast iron |
| Safe temperature | 500oF |
| Manufacturer | Lodge |
Personal Experience
Both the pot and the lid – or the skillet – effectively conduct the heat, making the Lodge L8DD3 5-Quart Dutch Oven the most representative product for a bare cast-iron Dutch oven that is suitable for all heat sources and every recipe.
Do not just buy a Dutch oven to bake sourdough bread, since all cooking ideas, from making pancakes, frying fish, to roasting beef, can be within the handling of a good Dutch oven.
This below video will supply some more information about the Lodge L8DD3 5-Quart Dutch Oven:
4. AmazonBasics SX-45QTG 4.3-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best Enameled)
It is undeniable that many people prefer to use enameled Dutch oven than bare cast-iron ones because of the convenience of cleaning and preserving, and the beautiful and various colors that enamel offers to the kitchen.
The AmazonBasics SX-45QTG 4.3-Quart Dutch Oven is a great enamel addition to your kitchen, to prepare hearty meals easily with no seasoning at all.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty cast iron
- Secure-fitting lid
- Easy-lifting loop handles
Pros
- The glass surface does not react to ingredients, safe for cooking
- Evenly heating bottom sidewalls and even the lid
- Good heat retention, good sealing in moisture with the heavy lid
- Suitable for all cooking surfaces, including on a stovetop, in the oven or on a barbecue
Cons
- The colors are not durable, both inside and outside
- The enamel need to be made thicker
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 12.44 x 9.96 x 6.53 inches |
| Weight of the item | 11.24 pounds |
| Color | Green |
| Safe temperature | 400oF |
| Manufacturer | AmazonBasics |
Personal Experience
The AmazonBasics SX-45QTG 4.3-Quart Dutch Oven is not a non-stick pot so users should always be careful with high heat. However, the ability to be suitable for all heat sources has surpassed many other enameled Dutch ovens.
In addition to the enamel layer that protects food safer, the design of rounded spikes under the lid also helps water condense evenly into the food for moister and tastier dishes.
5. Simply Calphalon 1776660 7-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best Non-Stick)
The non-stick problem of cast-iron Dutch ovens has always been a headache to many users, even with the enameled cast-iron. It will cost you a few minutes or more to clean while being not sure of getting back to its original quality.
If you are also tired of the burns on the bottom of the pot, the non-stick material of Simply Calphalon 1776660 7-quart Dutch Oven will be what you need.
Key Features
- Hard anodized aluminum material
- Stay-cool silicone handles
- Non-stick interior
- Domed tempered glass covers
- Hand wash only
Pros
- Easy to release and clean-up with non-stick interior
- Easy to view the food inside through the glass lid
- Durable and elegant
- The impact-bonded aluminum base maximizes the heat conduction
- Used on gas, electric, halogen or glass stovetop
Cons
- The bottom tends to be curved after a using time
- Does not retain heat as well as cast iron material
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 14.25 x 13.75 x 6.38 inches |
| Weight of the item | 3.1 pounds |
| Color | Grey |
| Safe temperature | 400oF |
| Manufacturer | Calphalon |
Personal Experience
The Simply Calphalon 1776660 7-quart Dutch Oven is quite spacious for large-scale cooking. The non-stick feature is really what makes many homemakers happy with cleaning, although you can remember the heavyweight feeling of cast-iron material.
6. Cooks Standard 02518 7-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best Stainless Steel)
The Cooks Standard 02518 7-Quart Dutch Oven is made from stainless steel, which is a familiar material to many users both in use and care. The shiny appearance also makes this cookware easy to fit and honor the modernity of the kitchen.
Key Features
- Durable stainless steel material
- Aluminum disc in the bottom
- Tempered glass lid with steam hole vent
- Riveted handles
Pros
- The aluminum disc bottom offers even heat distribution and prevents hot spots
- Large size for many uses
- Easy to view the food inside through the glass lid
- Dishwasher safe, easy to clean and maintain
- Works on induction, gas, electric, glass, ceramic, etc.
Cons
- Not suitable for storing cooked foods, as stainless steel reacts to acids and salt in cooked food at a low degree
- Not non-stick
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 16 x 11 x 4.3 inches |
| Weight of the item | 6.3 pounds |
| Color | Metal |
| Safe temperature | Oven: 500oF, glass lid: 350oF |
| Manufacturer | Cooks Standard |
Personal Experience
The stay-cool handles make the grip safe and convenient. The thick bottom holds great heat. Stainless steel material conducts heat quickly and easily to clean with detergent to regain its shine.
Of course, users still have to be careful about the risk of food sticking and burning, but in general, the Cooks Standard 02518 7-Quart Dutch Oven offers a lot of ease and comfort.
7. Tramontina 80131/077DS 5.5-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best Oval)
With an oval shape, the Tramontina 80131 / 077DS 5.5-quart Dutch Oven is an elegant, average-sized table serving option. At the same time, it gives you the right space to make dishes that need to preserve the length of the food.
Key Features
- Heavy-gauge cast-iron material
- Off-white, smooth PFOA- and PTFE-free porcelain enamel
- Sturdy side handles
- Self-basting condensation ridges on the lid
- Hand-wash only
Pros
- The cast-iron offers superior and even heat retention
- Collect and lead vapors onto food for moist and tasty dishes
- The oval shape makes it easy to present dishes that need more length
- Works gas, electric, ceramic glass and induction cooktops
Cons
- The enamel need to be made thicker
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 7.3 x 15.1 x 9.4 inches |
| Weight of the item | 12.37 pounds |
| Color | Cobalt |
| Safe temperature | 450oF |
| Manufacturer | Tramontina |
Personal Experience
The Tramontina 80131/077DS 5.5-quart Dutch Oven can provide various usability you can trust with whatever food you are preparing, from sautéing vegetables to slow-cooking a hearty stew. The oval shape will add creativity and space to your dining table.
8. Overmont OHS-OM-Dutch Oven-M 6-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best for Camping)
From the first glance, with the rough black cast iron material and the logo of an eagle on the lid, the Overmont OHS-OM-Dutch Oven-M 6-quart Dutch Oven evokes the feeling of outdoor journeys and campings, enjoying the freedom between nature.
Every detail of this heavy cast-iron Dutch oven is meticulously designed for the campfire’s perfect moments, from the legs to the lid.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty and durable cast iron
- Pre-seasoned
- Integral legs on both pot and lid
- Safe non-stick surface
- Hand wash only
Pros
- Can safely and perfectly be stood over the coal thanks to the three sturdy legs
- The functional handle and lid lifter help opening the lid easier
- The lid can transfer to a griddle and frying pan
- Distributes and keeps heat evenly, making it great for deep frying, searing, and baking
- Retains heat well and distributes it evenly based on the heavy-duty material
Cons
- The inner dimension is a bit smaller than the other brands
- The bare cast-iron material requires regular seasoning and thorough care
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 11.02 x 11.02 x 7.48 inches |
| Weight of the item | 13.12 pounds |
| Color | Natural cast iron |
| Safe temperature | 450oF |
| Manufacturer | Overmont |
Personal Experience
There is no need to bring too much cookware for your camping trip because the Overmont OHS-OM-Dutch Oven-M 6-quart Dutch Oven lid is very versatile and can turn into a frying pan.
When used as a lid, it is also very flat for you to add some charcoal on top, increasing the heat to cook the food inside, and its supporting feet help you easily put an extra pot above to take advantage of the energy.
You might be more surprised with the Overmont OHS-OM-Dutch Oven-M 6-quart Dutch Oven by watching the video below:
9. Lodge L8DOL3 5-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best for Baking Sourdough Bread)
One of the fascinating things about cooking is that your kitchen is filled with the inviting aroma of bread. Of course, you do not need a Dutch oven to make delicious sourdough bread to make good sourdough bread.
However, the Lodge L8DOL3 5-quart Dutch Oven with the ability to keep the moisture or steam and consistent high heat during the baking will make your baking process successful with less effort.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty cast iron
- Pre-seasoned
- Flat bottom, domed lid, loop handles
- Hand wash only
Pros
- Suitable for all cooking surfaces
- The domed cover is excellent for roasts and bread making
- Provides a nearly non-stick surface without chemical treat
- Conducts heat evenly and retains heat well thanks to the cast-iron material
Cons
- The bare cast-iron material requires regular seasoning and thorough care
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 12.5 x 10.4 x 6 inches |
| Weight of the item | 13 pounds |
| Color | Natural cast iron |
| Safe temperature | – |
| Manufacturer | Lodge |
Personal Experience
Taking the sourdough bread out of the oven is one of the best simple moments gives homemakers fun, and the Lodge L8DOL3 5-quart Dutch Oven helps fulfill that moment with beautiful crust bread that doesn’t burn or dry.
Of course, do not forget to keep lowering the temperature as the bread crust forms.
See more interesting things about the Lodge L8DOL3 5-quart Dutch Oven at this video:
10. Le Creuset LS2501-2867 7.25-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best for Soup)
Do you need a special Dutch oven to make a good pot of soup? Even without a nice and expensive pot, your skill in making soups can still produce extraordinary results.
However, I still have to say, if you cook soup with the Le Creuset LS2501-2867 7.25-quart Dutch Oven, the efficient heat retention of high-grade cast iron and a very tight lid will help the slow-cooking process much more stable and even.
Key Features
- Handcrafted;
- Ergonomic oversize handles
- Sand-colored interior enamel
- Ergonomic composite knob
- No-slide built-in lid
Pros
- Enhances the slow-cooking process by evenly distributing heat and locking in the optimal amount of moisture
- The advanced interior enamel resists chipping
- Provides the lightest weight per quart over any premium cast iron cookware available
- Works on any heat source, including induction, and with any oven or grill
Cons
- Pricey
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 11.6 x 14.1 x 7 inches |
| Weight of the item | 13.1 pounds |
| Color | Cerise |
| Safe temperature | 500oF |
| Manufacturer | Le Creuset |
Personal Experience
The other design details of the Le Creuset LS2501-2867 7.25-quart Dutch Oven are also suitable for making your soup. The oversized handles are good for a secure grip, and the durable but lighter weight than other cast iron cookware also makes it easier to lift a full pot of soup.
11. Cuisinel 8541900848 3-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best for Frying)
The Cuisinel 8541900848 3-quart Dutch Oven with a highly versatile design of 2-in-1 multi cooking is a Dutch oven model suitable for frying recipe because its lid is exactly a pan with full function.
Key Features
- Handcrafted
- Pre-seasoned
- Smooth finish
- 2-in-1 skillet and lid
- Hand wash only
Pros
- High versatility: the deep pan can be used as a skillet or Dutch oven, and the lid can be used as a shallow griddle
- Suitable for frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising, and sautéing
- Provides even heat distribution
- Works on all cooking surfaces
Cons
- The size is a bit small;
- The bare cast-iron material requires regular seasoning and thorough care
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 16.7 x 10.6 x 4.5 inches |
| Weight of the item | 5 pounds |
| Color | Natural cast iron |
| Safe temperature | 480oF |
| Manufacturer | Cuisinel |
Personal Experience
Maybe the handles and the like-pan shape of the Cuisinel 8541900848 3-quart Dutch Oven, in both the main body and the lid, may make you somewhat doubt about its Dutch oven function, while still trust it in making frying.
However, whether you bake bread or make stews, the Cuisinel 8541900848 is ready to serve you with the highest service.
12. Lodge L14DCO3 10-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best With Legs)
With three high and compact feet, the Lodge L14DCO3 10-quart Dutch Oven is ideal for outdoor cooking sessions using charcoal or fire. Despite the large pot volume, the legs still allow the pot to stay firmly above the heat source.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty and durable cast iron
- Seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
- Integral legs, flanged lid, bail handle
- Safe and virtually non-stick surface
- Hand wash only
Pros
- Can stand safely over the coal thanks to the three sturdy legs
- High heat retention and even heating
- The lid can transfer to a griddle and frying pan
- Works on the grill or over a campfire
Cons
- The heavyweight may cause difficulty in lifting
- The bare cast-iron material requires regular seasoning and thorough care
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 15.2 x 14.55 x 8.9 inches |
| Weight of the item | 28.1 pounds |
| Color | Natural cast iron |
| Safe temperature | 400oF |
| Manufacturer | Lodge |
Personal Experience
The three integrated legs with big and heavy characteristics of the Lodge L14DCO3 10-quart Dutch Oven make it unsuitable for indoor heat sources.
However, if you just want a Dutch oven for outdoor cooking or camping with many people, you have found a product that could not be more suitable.
The below video will tell you a lot more about the Lodge L14DCO3 10-quart Dutch Oven:
13. Calphalon 1932450 5-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best With Glass Lid)
Observing food inside the pot during the cooking process will prevent you from having to open the lid multiple times to check, causing heat and uniformity loss.
Cast-iron Dutch ovens will not allow you to do this like the Calphalon 1932450 5-quart Dutch Oven. In addition, the pour spout is great for saving time when preparing food for your favorite dishes.
Key Features
- Hard anodized aluminum material
- Dual-layer nonstick interior
- Measuring marks, pour spouts, and straining lid
- Cast stainless steel loop handles
- Hand wash only
Pros
- Easy to release and clean up with the dual-layer nonstick interior
- Easy to view the food inside through the glass lid
- The convenient fill lines, a straining cover, and pour spouts provide time-saving
- The durable hard-anodized aluminum maximizes the heat conduction
- The loop handles fit easily in the oven for versatile use on gas, electric, halogen or glass stovetop
Cons
- The bottom tends to be curved after a using time
- Does not retain heat as well as cast iron material
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 13.5 x 13.25 x 5.75 inches |
| Weight of the item | 5.54 pounds |
| Color | Grey |
| Safe temperature | 450oF |
| Manufacturer | Calphalon |
Personal Experience
A Dutch oven with a sturdy glass lid along with a pour spout is not an easy-to-find design on the market. Therefore, owners of the Calphalon 1932450 5-quart Dutch Oven will surely be pleased with these details.
While the material does not hold heat as well as cast iron, the double-layer design also contributes to more stable heating besides the admirable easy-to-clean feature.
14. Combekk 100128DG 6.3-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best With Thermometer)
Users love the Combekk 100128DG 6.3-quart Dutch Oven not only because the thermometer helps them to control the temperature of the dish easy to get perfect results every time. They also love the idea that the product is 100% recycled from Dutch train rail lines.
Key Features
- Made from 100% recycled material
- Built-in thermometer for precise cooking
- Single layer enamel coating
- Hand wash only
Pros
- The thermometer displays both Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature for accurate temperature control
- Even heat distribution with no hot spots
- Compatible with all head surfaces: gas, electric, ceramic, induction and oven
- Easy to clean by hands
Cons
- A few cases of moisture build-up inside the glass of the thermometer were noted
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 14.96 x 5.91 x 15.75 inches |
| Weight of the item | 17.6 pounds |
| Color | Black |
| Safe temperature | – |
| Manufacturer | Cuisipro |
Personal Experience
The Combekk 100128DG 6.3-quart Dutch Oven is one of the rare brands from Holland, the homeland of this type of cookware.
With the help of the thermometer, which no other Dutch ovens feature, you will always be able to cook consistently, from making bread to deep frying food in oil or monitoring a stew.
This interesting video will show you more about the Combekk 100128DG 6.3-quart Dutch Oven:
15. Oster 111922.03 6-Quart Dutch Oven
(Best With Steamer)
With a steamer basket, the Oster 111922.03 6-quart Dutch Oven encourages users to make healthier dishes, such as steamed or boiled dishes.
For steaming recipes, the Oster 111922.03 can be considered as a game-changer by helping you steam vegetables a breeze and very easy to clean.
Key Features
- Durable stainless steel material
- Encapsulated steel base
- Tempered glass lid with steam hole vent
- Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Distribute even heat distribution based on the encapsulated steel base
- Easy to view the food inside through the glass lid
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Lots of holes on the steamer to steam things fast and efficiently
Cons
- The handles and the lid knob are not stay-cool
- The handles and sides of pot are quite thin
- Suitable for dishes with water
Product Specifications
| Product dimensions | 8.50 x 8.50 x 6.20 inches |
| Weight of the item | 3.85 pounds |
| Color | Metal |
| Safe temperature | – |
| Manufacturer | Gibson |
Personal Experience
The thinness of the Oster 111922.03 6-quart Dutch Oven is an obstacle when you make stir or fry dishes, as you need to keep an eye on the ingredients during cooking to avoid burning and sticking. But this thinness is great for steaming and boiling dishes.
If you do not like washing dishes, the Oster 111922.03 is also suitable for you because all parts, including the steamer, are safe with dishwashers.
Best Dutch Ovens Buying Guide
Dutch ovens are original all-in-one cookware, helping you make from simple to complex dishes. While Dutch ovens are versatile, not all of them are the same. The following points will help you choose the correct type of cooker that suits your cooking preferences and usage habits:
Material
Different types of materials will greatly affect the cooking and maintenance process of Dutch ovens, as mentioned in the previous section of this article.
Therefore, you need to take some time to learn about this issue before deciding to buy one. If not, your Dutch oven will be more likely to get damaged and shorten its life, or else you will have a hard time scouring the burned bottom of the pot.
Size
The most popular interior sizes of Dutch ovens are 5 to 7 quarts, the ideal size for regular cooking for a family of 4-5 people, and also very suitable to grill a chicken. However, there are also products with a small size of around 1 quart or a large size up to 15.5 quarts.
The thing you should consider when choosing a large Dutch oven is its heavyweight. If it is full of food, then it will be much heavier and may hard to hold or handle.
Shape
Experienced users believe that it is better to choose a short and stout Dutch oven rather than a thin and taller one.
The Reason Is Simple
A large-diameter Dutch oven gives you more internal surface area and helps you cook or fry the ingredients more evenly and faster, especially for browning food.
In addition to the popular round shape, the Dutch ovens also have oval and square designs, appropriate with your specific cooking needs.
Design of Lid
For an ordinary lid, the condensation drips onto the inner walls of the pot, while the rounded metal spikes design on the underside of some lids will help water condense evenly into the food to keep it moist.
Though being not really the deciding factor, this design contributes to making the dish more even and delicious.
Other
You can also base on a number of other factors to choose your favorite Dutch ovens, such as the decorative color of the enameled ovens, the favorite brands, or the right price range for you.
Which Dutch Oven Brands Are the Best?
Whether the brand is old or emerging, some of the following names are always marked in the hearts of consumers whenever referring to the best Dutch ovens:
Lodge: From 1896, the Lodge family has been making high-quality cookware and accessories, passing down family values and American history through generations. This brand produces marvelous bare cast-iron and enameled products.
Le Creuset: Since 1925, Le Creuset cast iron has been famed for its strength and durability with hand-inspection by French artisans. Each product represents a reputation and tradition of lasting. This brand has outstanding bare cast-iron and enameled Dutch ovens.
AmazonBasics: Since 2009, Amazon.com, Inc. announced the launch of AmazonBasics as a new private label. This brand produces Dutch ovens of comparable quality with many famous lines but more affordable.
Calphalon: As a brand specializing in non-stick kitchen products, Calphalon produces Dutch ovens with hard-anodized aluminum construction and excellent easy-to-clean surfaces.
Overmont: Overmont Dutch ovens use the most advanced cast iron production technology, ensure the more stringent controls on quality, often found with bare cast-iron Dutch ovens for outside cooking.
FAQs
This section is frequently asked questions about Dutch ovens. Here you can find answers to your concerns, as well as useful new information.
My Top Pick
Like many other users, I was quickly attracted to the glossy, beautiful enamel of the Lodge EC6D43 6-Quart Dutch Oven. And as soon as my hand felt the weight of this Dutch oven and the thickness and smoothness of every detail, ideas of cooking were constantly flowing in my head.
I quickly turned all my thoughts into reality in the kitchen. I used the Lodge EC6D43 to marinate, refrigerate, cook, and serve many kinds of dishes on the table, from stewing to browning meat.
I do love bare cast-iron Dutch ovens, but the busy work makes me always miss appointments myself about the time of seasoning them. The great enamel of the Lodge Enamel EC6D43 gives me peace of mind that I will take good care of my favorite pot without spending too much time.
Honestly, I could not help but feel a little proud of myself for not having to spend a lot of money and still have a luxurious and effective Dutch oven in my kitchen.
How about your most pleasing Dutch oven? Can you tell me down here?
