The Best Dutch Oven

A Dutch oven is extremely versatile and can be used on the stovetop, on an outdoor grill, or in the oven. Often constructed of durable cast iron and sometimes coated with a porcelain enamel, with the right care, a Dutch oven is an investment you’ll have for years to come.

Lodge has been a trusted brand by home cooks for more than 120 years. Known for their commitment and quality to cast iron cooking products, their version of a Dutch oven knocks it out of the park. Coated with porcelain enamel, this pot is non-stick and can handle temperatures up to 500 degrees. Available in six sizes ranging from 1.5 quarts up to 7.5 quarts—do yourself a favor and go for the largest size here. You’ll be whipping up culinary creations with ease in this vessel.

With all eyes on the Lodge brand yet again, this classic Dutch oven delivers pure cast iron. It comes pre-seasoned to help food avoid sticking and there are no synthetic coatings in its construction. Available in four sizes ranging from 5 quart to 7 quart—bring this along on your next camping trip to really get into some country cooking.

If you are someone that doesn’t cook all that much, consider this economical option. While it may look similar to the enamel-coated Lodge, it is made of cast iron and can withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees (100 degrees less than the Lodge). Though coated, it is not completely non-stick, so you may want to slightly oil the base before starting your recipe.

A household name since 1925, this French brand hardly needs an introduction. The Le Creuset Dutch oven is made of lightweight cast-iron and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees. The enamel surface is chip-resistant and impermeable, making it ideal for acidic recipes such as red wine marinated beef roasts or tomato-based chili.