Crock-Pot Artisan Dutch Oven Review: First Time User

I’ve been using my Crock-Pot Dutch oven for a while now and I have to say, I’m impressed. Even though it is an affordable option, the construction, color, and induction compatibility have won me over.

I first heard about the Crock-Pot Dutch oven when I was looking for a new slow cooker for my favorite pot roast recipe. I was intrigued by the idea of enameled cast-iron Dutch ovens. Apparently, they are the original slow cooker, using low temperatures for slow cooking.

The higher temperature they could withstand and the vibrant colors they came in. I also liked the price and the primary benefit of evenly distributing heat. After reading some reviews about some of the best Dutch ovens from other home cooks, I decided to give it a try.

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What is a Crock Pot Dutch Oven?

Crock-Pot Artisan Dutch ovens are cast-iron pots with a porcelain enamel coating. They come in a variety of colors, are durable, and distribute heat evenly like any good Dutch oven.

The brand Crock-Pot is iconic and has been around for a long time.

The cast iron and enamel combination allows it to distribute heat evenly, which is a primary benefit of the product.

This is a great feature for those who want to cook food evenly or fry things without having to worry about hotspots.

Pricing

A Crock-Pot Dutch oven is an affordable option for those looking for a cast-iron Dutch oven. The price is a lot lower than Le Creuset Dutch ovens, at around a starting point of $50 for a small Dutch oven, but the quality is still there. What is an Enamel Dutch Oven?

Features

Features are important when considering any product and the Crock-Pot Dutch oven has some great ones.

Versatility

With this pot the cooking process is easy and you can make a variety of dishes with ease. Including;

• sautéing
• frying
• roasting
• searing
• braising
• stewing
• broiling
• baking

Durability

The Crock-Pot Dutch Oven is made of durable cast iron construction. This means that it is able to withstand high heat and is also oven-safe.

Heat Compatibility

Use this cookware on gas, electric, ceramic, glass, induction, convection, or conventional oven. Can you use cast iron on a glass top stove?

Performance

The Crock-Pot Dutch Oven also retains and distributes heat evenly, so your food will cook evenly every time. You won’t have to worry about hotspots or uneven cooking.

Self-Basting Lid

The self-basting heavy lid of the Crock-Pot Dutch Oven is a great feature that allows your food to cook evenly and retain moisture.

Metal Oven-Safe Knob

The stainless steel knob is oven safe up to 500° F on the lid of the Dutch oven. This feature allows you to use this pot in the oven.

Porcelain Enamel

The Crock-Pot Dutch oven is porcelain enamel coated, so it is resistant to sticking and easy to clean. The porcelain enamel also makes this pot more durable.

Colors

The Crock-Pot Dutch oven comes in 11 different colors, so you can find the perfect one for your kitchen.

Current Crock-Pot Artisan Dutch Oven Colors: 2022

Slate Gray, Aqua, Pistachio Green, Blue, Pink Blush, Scarlet Red, Sunset Orange, Teal Ombre, Gradient Red, Gradient Teal, and Sapphire Blue.

Shapes

The Crock-Pot Dutch oven is available in two shapes: round and oval. This allows you to choose the shape that will fit best in your kitchen.

What is the difference between the two shapes of Crock-Pot Dutch ovens? The round oven is great for cooking for a family and is good for soups and stews. While oval Dutch ovens are perfect for large cuts of meat, roasts, or larger crowds.

Sizes

The Crock-Pot Dutch oven also comes in three sizes: 3-quart, 5-quart, and 7-quart. This allows you to choose the size that will best fit your needs. What Is the Best Size Dutch Oven to Buy?

First Impressions

It looked like a high-quality, expensive option like Le Creuset, but at an affordable everyday price.

I was drawn to the 5-quart Dutch oven because of the metal oven-safe knob and large handles. I liked the idea of being able to use it in the oven without having to worry about it melting or becoming damaged.

The large handles also make it easy to grip and carry, even when it’s hot.

The color of the Crock-Pot Dutch oven, Sunset Orange, was vibrant, as described.

I was a bit hesitant to buy the Crock-Pot Dutch oven because I had read some reviews that said they were made in China.

While the price is affordable, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to support a company that outsources its labor.

I decided to do some more research and found out that the company is actually based in the United States and has been making cookware since 1971.

Although this Dutch oven is made in China, I was relieved to find out that the Crock-Pot Dutch oven is made by a reputable company with a long history.

Thoughts on Using Crock Pot Dutch Oven

I have been using the Crock-Pot Dutch oven for a little over six months now and am very pleased with the results.

The Crock-Pot Dutch oven worked well on my induction stovetop. The even heat distribution of the Dutch oven ensured that all of the food was cooked evenly, without any hot spots.

The Crock-Pot Dutch oven is not just great for baking, it’s also a great option for deep frying. This makes it perfect for frying chicken or fish, as you can be sure that every piece will come out perfectly cooked.

Learn more about frying in cast iron cookware: Can you fry in a Dutch oven?

I have cooked everything from chicken to beef stew in it, and each dish has turned out great. I have even successfully prepared rice in my new Dutch oven.

The Crock-Pot Dutch oven was very easy to clean. Although the Crock-Pot Dutch oven instructions say that it is dishwasher safe, the manufacturer recommends hand washing.

I simply rinsed it out with hot water and a little dish soap, and it was good as new. For me no scrubbing or elbow grease is necessary, this is a big plus!

I was surprised when I picked it up and found that it was a little heavier than I thought it would be. The integrated wide handles on the oven were generous enough to fit oven mitts. So despite its weight, the Dutch oven was very easy to use.

So overall, I am very happy with my purchase of the Crock-Pot Dutch oven. It is a great addition to my kitchen, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an easy-to-use, durable cooking pot.

Pros & Cons – Crock Pot Artisan Dutch Oven

Pros:

• Affordable
• Available in two shapes and three sizes
• Oven-safe knob and large handles
• Vibrant colors
• Made by a reputable company with a long history

Cons:

• They are made in China
• A bit heavier than I thought it would be

Want to purchase cast iron products locally? Check out my article with an extensive list of USA Brands making cast-iron Dutch ovens. What Cast Iron is Made in the USA

Can a Slow Cooker Replace a Dutch Oven?

The two kitchen appliances are similar in many ways. They are both designed to slow-cook food over a period of hours, and they can be used to create a variety of dishes. However, there are some important differences between crock pots and Dutch ovens.

Slow cookers are typically smaller and have a set temperature, while Dutch ovens can be adjusted to different temperatures. crock-pots also have a glazed ceramic pot that is placed inside the cooker, while Dutch ovens have a metal pot.

The type of pot that is used can affect the taste of the food. In addition, crock pots typically have a lid that locks in moisture, while Dutch ovens do not. This means that crockpots can be more effective for making soups and stews.

Ultimately, whether or not a crock-pot can replace a Dutch oven depends on the cook’s needs and preferences.

Can you use a Dutch oven as a slow cooker? Check out this article where I explain in-depth the differences between these two kitchen cookers.

Which is Better a Crock Pot or a Dutch Oven?

Both crock pots and Dutch ovens are great kitchen appliances for preparing meals, but there are many factors that can help to determine which option is the better choice. On the one hand, crock pots typically offer a more hands-off cooking experience.

This makes them ideal for busy households or individuals who want to be able to prep their meals in advance. Dutch ovens, on the other hand, tend to be more versatile and can be used for roasting, broiling, and even frying foods.

My Results/Verdict

I absolutely love my Crock-Pot Dutch Oven (French oven)! It is so versatile and has completely replaced all of my other pots. I can now make anything from a roast to soup to chili on the stovetop or in the conventional oven.

Another good reason to consider enameled cast iron Dutch ovens is the high temperatures. The Crock-Pot Dutch Oven is definitely a must-have for any kitchen!

Don’t miss out on this amazing cookware – check out the best deals and affordable everyday prices of the Crock-Pot Dutch oven today!

Alternatives to this great Dutch oven? The best option would be a Lodge Dutch Oven as it is closer to the Crock-Pot’s affordability.

Next would be a Staub Dutch oven, with a dark interior it is a versatile everyday cooking pot. Lastly on the pricier side are Le Creuset Dutch ovens with light interiors for use on all heat sources and a lifetime warranty.

Learn about my two favorite brands making high-end Dutch ovens today: Staub vs Le Creuset.

FAQs

Quick answers about Crock Pot Dutch Ovens.

Can a Crock-Pot Dutch oven go in the oven?

Yes, a crock-pot dutch oven can go in the oven. A crock-pot dutch oven is designed to handle high temperatures while retaining its heat, making it ideal for use in the oven.

What is a Crock-Pot Dutch oven made of?

It is an enameled Dutch oven made of cast iron coated with porcelain enamel. This finish is used for kitchen use and uncoated cast iron or bare cast iron is used for Dutch ovens to be used outdoors.

Does the Crock-Pot Dutch oven come in different sizes?

Yes, the Crock-Pot Dutch oven comes in three sizes: 3-quart, 5-quart, and 7-quart.

Can the Crock-Pot Dutch oven be used on an induction stovetop?

Yes, the Crock-Pot Dutch oven can be used on induction cooktops.

Which is better a Crock Pot or a Dutch oven?

A crock pot is great for slow-cooking dishes such as stews, soups, and roasts, where you can set it up in the morning and come back to a delicious meal at night. A Dutch oven is more versatile, as it can be used for both slow-cooking dishes and high-heat dishes like searing meat or making sauces.

What can I substitute for a Dutch oven?

An oven-safe casserole crock pot, stockpot, ceramic pot, a programmable slow cooker, Instant Pots, and pressure cookers are also on the list.

This article explains in-depth all you need to know on how to use Dutch ovens in a conventional oven.

Check out all substitutes for Dutch ovens in my article what can I use instead of a Dutch oven?

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!