Cuisinart Cast Iron Dutch Ovens vs Le Creuset Dutch Ovens

I could find nowhere on the internet that could deliver a concise comparison of these two great brands of Dutch ovens. So I have completed one for you. Cuisinart cast-iron Dutch oven vs Le Creuset Dutch ovens. I use both these brands of Dutch ovens along with many other brands.

The main difference between Cuisinart and Le Creuset is the price. The difference between 7-quart Cuisinart and its Le Creuset counterpart a 7-25-quart is approximately $270.00. Secondly is the quality of the material. Le Creuset uses high-quality materials that are actually lighter than those in the Cuisinart oven.

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Cuisinart Dutch Ovens vs Le Creuset Dutch Ovens

What Brand of Dutch Oven Is Best?

Le Creuset is cast iron Dutch oven royalty which has been used by chefs and home cooks around the world for decades. Cuisinart’s Dutch ovens are comparable-looking that are mass-produced in China.

I used my grandson’s new favorite dish for this comparison “Porcupine Meat Balls”. It is easy and quick to prepare a no-fuss dish which turned out perfectly in both Dutch ovens. I usually use another Dutch oven to prepare my fluffy every time Dutch oven rice.

Read on to find out Dutch oven is best for you…

Le Creuset vs Cuisinart: Quick Comparison Chart

Features	Le Creuset	Cuisinart
Brand Awareness	Solid reputation for producing premium enameled cast iron cookware, also branched out into other types of cookware, bakeware, tableware, and accessories	A widely known brand for cookware and appliances
Where is it Made	Made in France from a brand that has honed its cast-iron pouring and finishing skills for almost 100 years from the highest quality materials	China
Materials	At least 3 layers of enamel coating over bare casts iron	Enameled cast iron
Design	Thick walls and base, integrated cast iron side handles, interchangeable oven-safe knob	Looks similar to Le Creuset but with thicker walls and base, integrated cast iron side handles oven-safe knob
Exterior Colors	20+	2 enamel colors red and blue
Interior Colors	Sand	Off white
Loop Handles	Larger handles in length and width	Smaller handles
Lid	Domed	Domed
Knob	Stainless, gold plated, including personalized and themed or black phenolic knob	Enamel
Shapes	Round, oval, various themed novelty shapes	Round and oval
Sizes	1.5 to 15.5 quarts	3 to 7 quarts
Weight	11.2 pounds for 5.5-quart	13 pounds for 5-quart
Iron Thickness	Thinner	Thicker
Heat Source	Hob-to-oven versatility from the grill, electric hob, ceramic glass cooktop, gas hob, and induction hob to the oven.	Broiler, electric hob, ceramic glass cooktop, gas hob, and induction hob to the oven.
Induction Ready	Yes	Yes
Temperatures	Can withstand high temperatures	Can withstand high temperatures
Oven Safe	Oven safe up to 500°F, with stainless steel knob	Oven safe up to 500°F, with enamel knob
Nonstick Coating	Although better than cheaper enamel it is not a non-stick surface, oil can be used to prevent sticking	No, oil or liquid required
Performance	Excellent heat retention. Retained moister better than Cuisinart, over 5%, this is because of the tighter fitting lid	High heat retention. Retained heat for longer than Le Creuset. Thicker walls contributed to this outcome
Durability	The high quality enamel lasts longer than any other. But over time depending on the types of dishes you cook the light interior may discolor. Avoiding tomato sauce and acidic foods will help retain the clean light surface enamel	Less durable as enamel is prone to chipping and discoloration.
Cleaning	Dishwasher but hand washing recommended	Dishwasher safe
Product Complaints	Expensive, heavy, can discolor over time, slower to heat up than bare cast iron	Made in China, enamel chips
Warranty	Lifetime Warranty	Limited Lifetime
Price	See Latest – Amazon	See Latest – Amazon

As well as my own experience with my inherited heirloom Le Creuset I own many different brands of Dutch ovens. Including Cuisinart, Staub, Lodge, Camp Chef even my trusty little Crofton.

I also have a no-name one purchased from a thrift shop, which I use for jam-making and sauces with a tomato base. Lastly, one is a traditional cast iron Lodge Dutch oven which I also inherited.

I am more than happy with both brands of Dutch ovens. Cuisinart and Le Creuset will prepare the same dish perfectly every time.

I will admit that I do use the Cuisinart oven for regular meal preparation over the Le Creuset.

My Le Creuset is a precious heirloom and I never want to be without it so I do tend to take care of it. In saying that I do use it to serve meals at the table for guests.

Along with my own use regular use of Cuisinart and Le Creuset brands of Dutch ovens. I have spent hours researching forum posts and reviews collating experiences that people like me have had with both brands.

All that information is here in one place! So you can make your own decision as to which is the best brand for you Cuisinart or Le Creuset.

If you have landed here but are ready to check either of the Dutch ovens for yourself click here for Cuisinart… Alternatively, click here for Le Creuset...

Cuisinart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Ovens

My Test

My test dish turned out perfectly in this Dutch oven. When searing the meatballs there was no sticking.

After adding all ingredients to simmer the lid fit snugly with no evaporation between the rim of the oven and the seal of the lid.

I did have to reduce the heat as the tomato-based sauce did bubble a little too vigorously. {I did not want any burning or sticking to occur}

The dish cooked in the recipes required time and upon serving there was no sauce burnt or food stuck to the inside of the oven.

Due to the dish being a tomato-based sauce I cleaned the Dutch oven immediately {as I always do}. There was no added discoloration to the inside of the oven.

The Features

• Interior and exterior porcelain enamel
• Surfaces do not impart flavors or absorb odors
• Durable finish in rich colors that will complement any kitchen decor
• Perfect for cooking, serving, and entertaining
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

Cuisinart Overview

As with other cooking appliances made from cast iron, this Dutch oven retains heat as well as provides even heat distribution.

It can be used on induction, and electric stovetops, and is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also broiler safe. The knob on the lid is oven safe and is easy to grip for easy removal.

The cast iron handles are not as wide as I would like which unless optimum care is taken could impede a secure and safe grip. These handles do allow you to safely transport the oven from the cooking area to the table for serving if care is taken.

The 2 rich colors available are Cardinal Red and Provençal Blue.

The manufacturer advises that you can clean this oven in the dishwasher. The soap used in a dishwasher will fade the outside enamel over time as it does will any other enamel-coated product.

I personally never clean any cast iron in a dishwasher. I prefer to hand wash in soapy water and dry immediately to eliminate any chance of rust developing on my cookware.

Where is Cuisinart made? Cuisinart is made in France and China.

Cuisinart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Sizes

Along with the range of enameled Dutch ovens available I have also listed the dimensions and weight of the ovens for your quick reference.

The Round Dutch Ovens

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Round Covered Casserole 3-Quart

3-quart dimensions 9.8 inches x 9.8 inches x 6 inches and weighs approx 8 pounds

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Round Covered Casserole 5-Quart

5-quart dimensions 11.6 inches x 11.6 inches x 6.2 inches and weighs approx 13 pounds

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Round Covered Casserole 7-Quart

7-quart dimensions 13 inches x 13 inches x 6.2 inches and weighs approx 17 pounds

The Oval Dutch Ovens

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Oval Covered Casserole 5.5-Quart

5.5-quart dimensions 15.6 inches x 10.9 inches x 6.2 inches and weighs approx 14 pounds

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Oval Covered Casserole 7-Quart

7-quart dimensions 16.5 inches x 13.9 inches x 6.8 inches and weighs approx 17 pounds

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Ovens

My Test

As my Porcupine meatball test dish turned out so well with the Cuisinart oven I fully expected that I would have the same experience with the Le Creuset oven.

Well as expected the dish turned out perfectly in this Dutch oven.

The only glaring difference was the fact that I did not have to reduce the heat during the simmering process.

I believe attests to the quality of the material in the Le Creuset brand.

There was no sticking and as with the Cuisinart oven, the lid fits snugly with little evaporation between the rim of the oven and the seal of the lid.

There was no sauce burnt or stuck to the inside of the oven.

As with the Cuisinart oven, I cleaned my Le Creuset immediately. Learn how to clean Le Creuset enamel cookware.

The Features

• 45% larger handles that provide a sure grip, even with oven mitts
• The superior heat distribution and retention of Le Creuset enameled cast iron
• An advanced sand-colored interior enamel with even more resistance to wear
• A larger metal or composite knob that withstands temperatures up to 500ºF
• Colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel that resists chipping and cracking

Le Creuset Overview

The lightest weight per quart of any premium cast iron cookware available.

There is an extensive Le Creuset color range including Chambray, Artichaut, Olive, White, Black, Caribbean, Cherry, Dune, Flame, Hibiscus, Indigo, Orange Blossom, Marine, Marseille, Oyster, Palm, Soleil, and Truffle.

The colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel resists chipping and cracking; interior enamel is engineered to resist staining and dulling.

Sand-colored interior enamel makes it easy to monitor food as it cooks, preventing burning, sticking, and interior discoloration.

The large handles provide even weight distribution and an extremely secure grip with mitted hands.

Ergonomic composite knobs are heat resistant to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Built-in lid stabilizers provide a secure, no-slide tight-fitting lid.

The Range – Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Sizes

Along with the Le Creuset Dutch oven sizes available I have also listed the dimensions and weight of the ovens for your quick reference. See in-depth details about Le Creuset Dutch oven sizes.

Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven Sizes

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 1-Quart Round French (Dutch) Oven

1-quart dimensions 4.5 inches x 4.5 inches x 2.8 inches and weighs 3.9 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 2-Quart Round French Dutch Oven

2-quart dimensions 7.4 inches x 9.8 inches x 5.1 inches and weighs 5.6 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 2.75 Quart Le Creuset Shallow Dutch French Oven

2.75-quart dimensions 10.8 inches x 9.1 inches x 4.7 inches and weighs 7.4 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Round Wide 3.5 Quart Dutch oven

3.5-quart dimensions 10 inches x 12.5 inches x 5.5 inches and weighs 9 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 4.5-Quart Round French Dutch Oven

4.5-quart dimensions 10.1 inches x 12.7 inches x 6.5 inches and weighs 9.9 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5.5-Quart Round French Dutch Oven

5.5-quart dimensions 10 inches x 10.8 inches x 4 inches and weighs 11.2 pounds

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature 6.75-Quart Round Wide Dutch Oven

6.75-quart dimensions 12 inches x 16 inches x 6.5 inches and weighs 14.3 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 7.25-Quart Round French Dutch Oven

7.25-quart dimensions 11.6 inches x 14.1 inches x 7 inches and weighs 12.8 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 9-Quart Round French Dutch Oven

9-quart dimensions 14.9 inches x 12.3 inches x 7.8 inches and weighs 16.5 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 13.25 Quart Round French Dutch Oven

13.25-quart dimensions 14 inches x 16.5 inches x 8.2 inches and weighs 22.7 pounds

Le Creuset Oval Dutch Oven Sizes

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Oval Dutch French Oven 1-Quart

1-quart dimensions 5.5 inches x 4 inches x 4 inches and weighs 3.5 pounds

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Oval Dutch French Oven 2.75-Quart

2-75 quart dimensions 8.5 inches x 12 inches x 5 inches and weighs 6.2 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven 5-Quart

5-quart dimensions 9.5 inches x 14 inches x 6.5 inches and weighs 11.1 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven 6.75-Quart

6-75 quart dimensions 10.2 inches x 15.3 inches x 7 inches and weighs 13.2 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Oval French Oven 8-Quart

8-quart dimensions 10 inches x 12.9 inches x 5 inches and weighs 10.5 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Oval French (Dutch) Oven 9.5 Quart

9.5-quart dimensions 11.3 inches x 16.8 inches x 7.6 inches and weighs 17 pounds

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Oval French (Dutch) Oven 15.5 Quart

15.5-quart dimensions 12.8 inches x 19 inches x 9 inches and weighs 24.8 pounds

Pros and Cons: Le Creuset and Cuisinart

Pros

Le Creuset	Cuisinart
Superior materials and construction	Affordable Dutch oven
All stovetops including induction	All stovetops including induction
Oven safe up to 500 degrees F	Oven safe up to 500 degrees F
Longer and wider handles	Dishwasher safe
The lid fits to retain moisture by 5% over Cuisinart
Several layers of high-quality enamel contribute to better nonstick capabilities and durability

Cons

Le Creuset	Cuisinart
Expensive	Handles smaller
Heavy like all enamel cast iron	Heavier than Le Creuset
Heats slowly like all enamel cast iron	Limited to 2 decor colors
	Enamel chips easily – avoid metal utensils

What Is the Difference Between Le Creuset and Cuisinart?

The main difference between Le Creuset and Cuisinart is the price. Le Creuset is still produced with high-quality cast iron in France. Cuisinart is made in China. Cheaper manufacturing dictates that the price of Cuisinart will be cheaper.

Cuisinart Brand

1. Cuisinart Dutch oven looks similar to the Le Creuset brand
2. Both have straight sides giving more cooking surface area at the bottom of the oven
3. Cuisinart cast-iron Dutch ovens are over 75% cheaper than a similar size Le Creuset cast-iron Dutch oven
4. Cuisinart made in China
5. Product and brand awareness with enameled cast iron cookware, clad stainless steel cookware, ceramic non-stick cookware, hard-anodized aluminum PTFE non-stick cookware, aluminum PTFE non-stick cookware, copper cookware, cutlery, kitchen tools, appliances, air purifiers.

Le Creuset Brand

1. Le Creuset is made in France with high-quality materials
2. Lighter than other cast-iron Dutch ovens
3. 75% more expensive than Cuisinart
4. Will last you a lifetime and beyond
5. Handmade in France
6. Product and brand awareness with enameled cast iron cookware, stainless steel cookware, clad stainless steel cookware, hard anodized aluminum cookware with PTFE non-stick coating, tea kettles, bakeware, dinnerware, serve ware, kitchen utensils, and cookware accessories.

Is Le Creuset Better Than Other Brands?

I believe that the material and manufacturing process speaks volumes about the quality of  Le Creuset’s cast-iron products.

If these processes slip and cheaper quality materials start to creep into their manufacturing processes loyal customers will walk away in droves from the prices they are faced with.

The Verdict – Cuisinart Cast Iron Dutch Oven vs Le Creuset

Both of these brands of Dutch ovens carry out the tasks they are required to undertake. The only real differences are the material quality and price.

If you are new to cast iron Dutch oven cooking Cuisinart is the perfect entry-level oven.

If you are a true cast-iron Dutch oven user and you want an oven to love and last and pass down as an heirloom life is too short to live without a Le Creuset.

Cuisinart

The Cuisinart cast iron Dutch ovens look like a Le Creuset with the straight sides giving plenty of room inside the bottom of the oven. Which is perfect for dishes in which the food needs searing or radiant heat from below.

Unfortunately, there are only three round options available and two oval options. So five sizes compared to the seventeen available in Le Creuset’s standard range.

Prices vary greatly between Cuisinart and Le Creuset depending upon the size you require. Around 75% as a general rule of thumb.

Check out the prices of these Dutch ovens as well as the fantastic customer reviews for yourself click here for Cuisinart…

Le Creuset

For almost a century Le Creuset has been producing Dutch ovens in their Fresnoy-Le-Grand foundry in France. Each individual piece is lovingly handcrafted and stamped for easy identification. Le Creuset round French Ovens have been revered in restaurants around the world for generations.

These workhorse Dutch ovens are made from high-quality materials so they retain their like-new good looks no matter how many times they are used.

Ten round and seven oval choices are available in the standard range. There are many more shapes, sizes, and limited-edition options also available. This brand really does have its customers in mind when evolving its range.

So if you want to buy the best of the best or just purchase one Dutch oven that will last you a lifetime this is the one for you.

Check out the prices, sizes and purchaser reviews of these Dutch ovens for yourself click here for Le Creuset.

Want More Dutch Oven Information?

Recommended Reading

You can see my in-depth article on the signature round 5.5 quart Le Creuset Dutch oven.

I have an in-depth article all about the signature oval 6.75 quart Le Creuset

Need some help with choosing the right size Le Creuset Dutch oven for my article about the various Le Creuset size options.

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