Here we are again at the start of a new year. Preparing meals at home as we were forced to do in 2020 is still as important as in 2021.
That being said the mighty Dutch oven the “original one-pot cooker” has definitely made a resurgence. Especially with the practicality of this cooking pot.
Dutch ovens come in various forms including enamel for indoor use only or seasoned cast-iron that can literally be used anywhere indoors or outdoors.
So who makes the best Dutch ovens? Premium brands include Le Creuset and Staub. Affordable well-made and in-demand brands are rep-presented by Lodge and Camp Chef. Supporting them you have budget brands like Calphalon and Tramontina.
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Top 4 Best Dutch Ovens for 2021
Best Premium Dutch Oven
Best Affordable Dutch Oven
Best Budget Dutch Oven
Best Seasoned Camp Dutch Oven
Click on each image to check out the products as well as other styles, colors, prices, and what others have to say…
Best Dutch Ovens & Dutch Oven Brands
How do Dutch ovens and their Brands make the “best of list“?
- Design
- Build and practicality
- Materials and workmanship
- Durability
- Brand reputation
- Size
- Affordability
- Cleaning, care, and maintenance
- Warranty
- Storage
- Must-have a large volume of positive purchaser reviews (don’t just take my word for it)
Premium Dutch Ovens
Le Creuset Enamel Cast-Iron Round Dutch Oven
This brand of Dutch oven comes in sizes to suit everyone. The 5.5-qt Dutch oven is Le Creuset’s signature oven. It is also their top-selling oven as it falls into the medium Dutch oven size.
It falls into the feed 4 people range and will easily prepare any standard recipe.
Le Creuset Enamel Cast-Iron Oval Dutch Oven
The Le Creuset 6.75-qt oval Dutch oven still falls into the feed 4 people comfortably, but with the benefit of having leftovers or feeding extra people.
An oval Dutch Oven will also hold large cuts of meat and meat on the bone. They fit perfectly into a conventional oven for wonderful slow-cooked meat that falls off the bone.
Features of Le Creuset Dutch Ovens
- 45% larger handles than the previous model to a safe grip
- Second to none heat distribution and retention
- This Dutch oven has advanced sand-colored interior enamel that resists wear and chipping
- Can be used to temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- The Dutch oven is proudly made in France
- The lid is built with lid stabilizers for a snug, non-slip fit
- Lightweight enameled cast iron cookware
- It can be cleaned in a dishwasher
- Enameled finish will not let even the most acidic foods harm the cooking surface
The features of the iconic brand of cast-iron cookware Le Creuset are second to none. Through decades of building a superior brand, the winner is always the customer, due to outstanding warranties on their products.
I use my Le Creuset Dutch oven almost every day you can check out some of the recipes I make regularly – here.
For a lot more information about the Le Creuset 5.5-quart signature round Dutch oven go here and for an in-depth look at the awesome Le Creuset 6.75-qt oval Dutch oven go here.
Go here to check out the Le Creuset 5.5-quart Dutch oven and here for the Le Creuset 6.75-quart oval Dutch oven. Do not forget to peruse the other decor colors.
Recommended Reading – Le Creuset Dutch Oven Sizes – here and Le Creuset Cookware Sizes – here
Premium Enamel Cast-Iron Dutch Oven for Singles and Couples
Staub Round Cocotte Oven
The Staub round 4-quart cocotte or french oven is made in France.
This Staub Dutch oven comes with a heavy tight-fitting lid. The inside of this innovative lid features tiny spikes, these spikes continually release condensed liquid back into the food. The end result is tender, moist, flavorful results complete with thick sauces and soups.
Staubs smooth enamel bottom works on all stovetops, including gas, electric, glass, ceramic, induction, as well as halogen. Cast iron possesses exceptional heat-retaining qualities, so the pot heats evenly throughout.
The Staub cocotte is unsurpassed for slow-cooking meats and vegetables to tender perfection, and for simmering hearty stews and soups.
Staub’s special matte black enamel interior assists you to perfectly brown your food before braising which gives you flavor-enhanced food.
This Dutch oven is conventional oven-safe for temperatures up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit without lids. The lids are oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The lids on these Dutch ovens sport a nickel steel knob.
This Staubs dimensions are 11.9 inches x 9.4 inches x 6 inches and weigh 9 pounds large enough for a 3-pound chicken.
The Staub round cocotte ovens are durable and are perfect for day to day use, handwash with warm soapy water. And with care, these Staub Dutch ovens will last more than a lifetime and will become heirloom pieces that will be passed from generation to generation
You will love serving meals from your Staub with their exquisite enamel finishes as much as the chefs of the world love cooking in the unique Dutch oven.
Click here to check out this gorgeous Staub round 4-quart Dutch oven, and the other decor colors for yourself.
Affordable Dutch Ovens
Most Affordable Dutch Oven for Small Families
This Lodge porcelain enamel on cast iron Dutch oven is cast from molten iron in individual sand molds. The Dutch oven has three layers of enamel that are chip resistant.
This 6-quart Lodge enameled cast iron Dutch oven is perfect for use on gas, electric, ceramic, induction cooktops, and in the conventional oven.
This Dutch oven should not be used on outdoor grills, over open outdoor flames such as campfires, or used in your microwave.
This awesome 6-quart Dutch oven has many uses and is very versatile – marinating, refrigerating, cooking, and then off to the table for serving or to the freezer to use at a later date. Loop handles for a better grip and the knob on the lid is safe in the oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
There is no seasoning required with this Dutch oven, because of its enamel coating it is relatively easy to clean. The manufacturer says dishwasher safe, but I believe that warm soapy water and thorough drying is always best to preserve your precious cookware.
Dimensions of these 6-quart Lodge enameled cast-iron Dutch ovens are 10 3/4 inch diameter and 4 1/2 inches deep.
Go here to check out this Lodge enameled cast-iron Dutch oven, in Island Spice Red. Also, see for yourself what others are about this Dutch oven.
Most Affordable Dutch Oven for Large Families
7.5-quart Dutch ovens are the perfect size for the larger family. If you are a small family you will be able to entertain easily or have leftovers after every meal.
The beautiful Caribbean Blue Dutch oven is an entertainer’s delight as you can serve from this decor piece of cookware straight from the oven or cooktop to the table.
This large enamel on cast iron Dutch oven has been crafted to be used on gas cooktops, electric cooktops, ceramic and induction cooktops, as well as in the oven.
This Lodge Dutch oven has superior heat distribution and retention, evenly heating bottom sidewalls and even the lid. The lid fits tightly and seals in moisture. As with other Lodge products, there is excellent heat retention and this reduces the amount of energy needed for cooking.
There are two layers of porcelain enamel that are chip resistant and easy to clean. Lid knob is oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Along with other enamel, cookware products use on open flames or in microwave ovens is not advised.
As with other Lodge colored porcelain enamel on its cast iron cookware products this Dutch oven is cast from molten iron in individual sand molds.
As this is a porcelain surface you do not need to season this Dutch oven. Clean with warm soapy water.
Dutch oven dimensions 12 inches in diameter and is 4 3/4 inches deep.
I dive deep into the benefits of this gorgeous affordable Dutch oven here.
Go here to check out this Lodge enameled cast iron Dutch oven, 7.5-quart, Caribbean Blue. Don’t forget to see for yourself what others are saying about this popular oven.
Budget Dutch Ovens
Budget Dutch Oven for Families
The 6.5-qt Tramontina enameled cast iron round Dutch oven is the perfect size for a family of 4. Considering the pot size range for the average family is between 6-quart to 7.5-quarts.
Recommended reading – best size Dutch oven for family of 4 – here.
The oven is a premium piece of cookware with its material, workmanship, and manufacturing superior to other products on the market today.
This Dutch oven is made from heavy-gauge cast-iron covered with off-white PTFE-free porcelain enamel. This PTFE-free porcelain enamel smooth and easy to clean which is an added bonus.
This Dutch oven is part of the “Tramontina Gourmet Collection” and is an entertainer’s delight. You can use this Dutch oven for so much more than just cooking.
If you pre-chill this Dutch oven in the refrigerator you can keep food cold in the oven for serving straight from the oven at dinner parties and any other occasion that comes to mind. Wonderful decor colors are also available.
This is an extremely durable piece of cookware that is oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and can be used on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops.
There are self-basting condensation ridges or spikes on the lid that uniformly collect and direct vapors onto food which gives you wonderful moisture and flavors in your food.
This Dutch oven comes complete with a stainless steel knob and superior heat retention, you will be preparing tender hearty meals in no time.
As with anything else you love warm soapy water and a thorough drying will elongate the life of your cookware.
Those that have purchased this Dutch oven are more than happy with its overall performance.
For a lot more information about this Tramontina enameled cast iron 6.5-qt covered round Dutch oven why not go over and check out my in-depth article here.
To see more about this highly affordable oven, as well as its great price, check out the Tramontina 6.5-qt Dutch oven here.
Best Oval Dutch Oven
Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven
This large Lodge oval Dutch oven is made from cast iron by Lodge. It has a porcelain enamel interior and exterior and is available in red and white.
The dimensions are 10.25 inches x 15.56 inches x 7.13 inches.
The 7-quart capacity of this oval Dutch oven made by Lodge is perfect for large cuts of meat, whole poultry, and meat on the bone.
You will be able to prepare large pot roasts with plenty of vegetables as well as stew, soups, and any recipe you can think of for families or large groups of people.
The oven can be used on gas, electric, and induction cooktops also in the conventional oven. The stainless steel knob is safe for oven use.
The self-basting lid has a generous handle. The heavy lid traps in heat, moisture, and nutrients.
If you are after a large affordable Dutch oven you will not regret purchasing this time tested brand of Dutch oven.
For more in-depth information on this Lodge oval cast iron Dutch oven check out my full article – here.
Go here to check out this Lodge cast iron oval Dutch oven at Amazon to see for yourself what others are saying. You’ll be glad you did.
Best Lightweight Dutch Oven
Calphalon Classic Nonstick Dutch Oven
The Calphalon classic nonstick Dutch oven has been designed for everyday cooking. The Dutch oven is made of hard-anodized aluminum and a dual-layer nonstick interior. This anodized aluminum is fast heating which is great for browning and searing meat.
You can then add your other ingredients and pop into the oven. The Dutch oven is oven safe for temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and sports a tempered glass lid and sturdy loop handles for moving the oven.
This 7-quart covered Dutch oven has convenient measuring marks, pour spouts, and straining lids. The generous size of this Dutch oven is large enough to cook family meals.
The Calphalon classic nonstick Dutch oven is also backed by a full lifetime warranty.
Go here to check out the price of the Calphalon classic nonstick Dutch oven. Also, see for yourself what others are saying about this lightweight Dutch oven.
Most Practical Dutch Oven
Lodge Cast-Iron Double Dutch Oven
I love this Dutch oven… Why?
- Size – feeds 4 or more
- Deep Lid
- Dual handles – easy transport
- Indoor/Outdoor practicality
- Not too heavy
- Perfect for Dutch oven bread
This Lodge 5-quart cast-iron double Dutch oven is exactly as its title describes. The Dutch oven itself has integrated loop side handles on the base and the lid for secure transport. The lid can then be turned over and used as a skillet which measures 10.25 inches in diameter.
The lid of this Dutch oven is also quite deep so apart from frying in the lid you can also cook omelets, scones, and deserts as well as many other recipes.
The double Dutch oven also comes pre-seasoned and ready for use. The lid is tight fitting to keep in the moisture and flavors of your food and also assists in the even heating of your food along with the cast iron bottom and walls.
The dimensions of this Dutch oven are 10 1/4 inches x 13 inches x 5 1/2 inches.
Cleaning is easy just hot water and brush, re-season, dry thoroughly and pack away until the next use.
I use this Dutch oven to make homemade artisan bread. I place the dough on the lid and then invert the oven over the top before cooking. The result is a delicious loaf of bread every time.
For more information on the Lodge cast iron double Dutch oven check out my full article – here.
Go here to check out the Lodge Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven, 5-Quart at Amazon to see for yourself what others are saying. You’ll be glad you did.
Best Seasoned Cast-Iron Dutch Ovens for Indoors, Outdoors, and Camping
Camp Dutch Oven Pre Seasoned / Domed Lid
This 5-quart Lodge cast iron Dutch oven is delivered to you pre-seasoned. It comprises a rugged cast iron construction with thick sidewalls and base. Which will give you even heat distribution and slow cooking among other types of cooking will be awesome.
The self-basting lid is domed keeps the moisture inside your oven. While the loop handles make the Dutch oven safe to carry. The measurements of this Dutch oven are 12.56 inches x 10.43 inches x 6 inches (with lid).
It also comes in the smaller size of 2-quart perfect for singles, desserts, breakfast, and desserts. Also the larger 7-quart for those big hearty meals and large cuts of meat.
For more information about this Lodge Dutch oven with dual handles, and pre-seasoned ready for use why not go over and check out my full article here.
Check out this Lodge Dutch oven and what others are saying here.
Lodge Camp Dutch Oven with Bail
This 5-quart Lodge cast iron Dutch oven arrives pre-seasoned and comes with wire bail and is designed for camp and hearth cooking. As well as the benefit of easy lid lifting. The look handles on the Dutch oven itself allow you to use oven mitts for safe transport while the oven is hot.
This 5-quart cast iron Dutch oven is ready to be used when you unpack it due to the fact that it is pre-seasoned.
The tight-fitting lid is made from heavy cast iron and assists in even cooking and keeping your food moist. The thick cast iron bottom and walls also keep your food warm after cooking has finished.
Convenitently there are three sizes available 5-quart, 7-quart and 9-quart.
The dimensions of this Lodge Dutch oven are 10 1/4 inches in diameter and 4 inches deep.
Cleaning of the Dutch oven is easy as it is seasoned. Clean with hot water and a brush and dry thoroughly before storing it away.
If you want more in-depth information on this awesome Lodge Dutch oven go over and check out my full article here.
Go here to check out this 5-quart Lodge cast iron Dutch oven. Make sure you see for yourself what others are saying about this Dutch oven.
Lodge Seasoned Deep Camp Dutch Oven
These Lodge seasoned cast iron deep camp Dutch ovens are available in sizes 2-quart,4-quart, 5-quart, 6-quart, 8quart, and 10 quarts.
They are a traditional cast iron Dutch oven with integral legs for sitting over a campfire. Its flanged lid holds the hot coals and can be flipped over to be used as a frying griddle.
These Dutch ovens are pre-seasoned with soy-based vegetable oil with have no synthetic chemicals in them. As with other traditional cast-iron Dutch ovens the more you use your oven the better the seasoning becomes.
Lodge has also included Camp Dutch Oven Cooking 101 cookbook to inspire you to use your Dutch oven more than just occasionally.
This American manufactured Lodge Dutch oven will present you with many campfire memories with family and friends. And you definitely will be passing this traditional workhorse on to future generations.
I have an in-depth article here that talks about deep camp ovens with legs.
Go here to check out the range of Lodge deep camp Dutch ovens that are preseasoned.
Heavy Duty Large Camp Dutch Oven
Camp Chef is a well known brand that makes sturdy cast-iron cookware that outdoor enthusiets love.
When you open the box to this camp Dutch oven this is what you can expect to find.
A deep pre-seasoned cast iron oven with legs to help you with temperature control.
A heavy tight-fitting lid with a large loop handle also has legs. The lid can of course be inverted over the Dutch oven as an extra cooktop using the heat from inside the oven to prepare your favorite dishes.
Alternatively, because the lid has legs it can also be used separately over your heat source. Shallow frying in the wild – no mess no fuss!
Along with the deep oven that promotes even cooking due to the airflow there is a thermometer channel. You will then be able to check your temperature without removing the lid.
As well as the Dutch oven lid lifter, for lid removal safety, included is a cookbook to get you started.
If you are considering a large camp Dutch oven such this in-depth article is a must-read.
If you want to see more purchaser reviews for this Camp Chef Dutch oven as well as the price here is the link.
What’s So Special About Dutch Ovens?
Dutch ovens have been around for hundreds of years. They traditionally were a heavy pot generally made of cast iron. These pots have a heavy lid made of the same cast iron which fits tightly to ensure no heat escapes and the moisture is retained in the food you are preparing.
Traditionally the cast iron was seasoned before use as this protects the iron and your food.
Caring and seasoning take a little work to protect your Dutch oven. But the benefits of owning a workhorse like this far outway the small amount of time it takes to do so.
Cast iron is a wonderful heat conductor which can heat the contents of the oven to temperatures of over 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
This metal is great for using on hot coals or over and open for – great for camping. Cast iron Dutch ovens are just as at home in a conventional oven electric, ceramic, or gas cooktop as well on an induction stove.
You can cook everything in a Dutch oven. Baked goods, stewing, slow cooking soups, and beans. You can roast complete meals, you can deep fry, make desserts.
Some Dutch ovens even allow you to flip the lid over and shallow fry while cooking in the pot below. Alternatively, you can use the lid inverted over your heat source for extra cook space.
Nowadays you can purchase two different types of enameled Dutch ovens. Each has a different core one being an aluminum core and the other has a ceramic core.
These types of Dutch ovens have become popular due to the fact that they do not need to be seasoned. So they are easier to maintain, also they come in many fashion colors to match your home decor.
The enameled Dutch ovens cook just as effectively as the more traditional cast-iron Dutch ovens, but probably should not be used on a campfire.
What Is the Best Cast Iron Dutch Oven to Buy?
The best affordable option is the Lodge enameled cast iron Dutch oven and the premium option is the Le Creuset signature enameled 5.5-qt round french oven. Both brands have stood the test of time and are definitely front runners in the cast-iron cookware industry.
How to Choose a Dutch Oven?
Dutch ovens made from superior materials and proven brands will last a long time. So a larger upfront investment will in the long run save you money.
When choosing there are a couple of key factors to remember.
- What do you intend to use your Dutch oven for? Indoors or Outdoors – Types of food you wish to cook.
- Dutch oven size – how many hungry mouths are you feeding. It is very important to consider the weight of your Dutch oven when it is fully laden. You need to be able to lift your Dutch oven safely.
- Build, handles on the oven and the knob or loop on the lid need to be large enough to use oven mitts when the oven is hot.
What’s the Best Dutch Oven Size?
5 to 7 quarts Dutch ovens suit most people’s needs. 5 1/2 quart is the most popular size according to leading brand manufacturers. They feed a family easily, with leftovers they are easy to move around when laden, and storage is not a problem.
Final Thoughts – Best Dutch Oven Brands 2021
It is my hope that I have assisted you in some small way so you have all the information you need to purchase your new Dutch oven.
If you want information on “what kind of Dutch should I buy” click here. you will be taken to my article that will help you decide what kind of Dutch oven would suit you.
Happy Shopping then Cooking 🙂
If you are ready to purchase a new Dutch oven click HERE to go through to Amazon and go shopping…
One-Pot Cooking Rocks
Recommended Reading
Do you ever ask yourself what size Dutch oven should I buy? or what’s the best Dutch oven for camping?
YES? well you need to check out these two articles I have written for you
Best size Dutch ovens to buy – here
Camping Dutch ovens – here
Thanks for the video music – Ben Sound
