How Much Does a Dutch Oven Weigh?
Dutch ovens are a type of pot that is made from cast iron. They are popular among campers and outdoor enthusiasts because they are durable and can be used to cook a variety of food items over an open fire. This classic piece of cookware has also been adapted for use in the kitchen and is available in various materials. So how much do Dutch ovens weigh?
A 6-quart cast iron Dutch oven weighs between 13 and 17 pounds empty, a 6.5-quart aluminum Dutch oven weighs 4 pounds, and a 6-quart stainless steel Dutch oven weighs 6.3 pounds. The most popular size Dutch oven is 5 to 7 quarts, regardless of what material it is made from, as it comfortably feeds four people.
Let’s take a look at the weight of different Dutch ovens and discuss why it matters.
What Is a Dutch Oven and Why Do They Weigh So Much
A Dutch oven is a large pot with a tight-fitting lid that is used to cook food in various ways. This type of cast-iron cookware can be used to cook a variety of food items, including meats, vegetables, soups, and stews.
This type of cooking pot has been around for centuries and can be made from various materials including heavy cast iron, enameled cast iron, aluminum, ceramic, copper even stainless steel.
Dutch ovens are usually made from cast iron, which is why they are so heavy.
The weight of the pot helps to evenly distribute heat, making it ideal for slow cooking methods such as braising and stewing. Along with other dishes that require long periods of cooking time.
Cast Iron Dutch ovens are heavy and weigh anywhere from 8 pounds for a 2-quart size up to 36 pounds for a 20-quart size. They have sturdy bases thick walls of iron, large handles, and a lid that fits snugly on top. Heavy Dutch oven lids help to trap moisture and heat, making the food cooked inside more tender and flavorful.
There are plenty of shapes and different sizes to choose from including a classic Dutch oven and a deep Dutch oven.
The heat source to cook with Dutch ovens vary from an open fire, camp stove, gas or charcoal grill, oven, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops.
Cast-iron pots can withstand high temperatures and high heat up slowly. The thickness of the iron retains the heat which helps to maintain a constant temperature and heat distribution, which is essential for cooking food properly.
Dutch ovens can be used on a campfire, on the stovetop, or in the oven, and they are popular with home cooks because they are very durable.
The Weight of Different Dutch Ovens
There is a wide range of Dutch ovens on the market, and they come in a variety of weights. The most popular size is made from cast iron and is the 6-quart Dutch oven, which weighs approximately 14 to 16 pounds empty. Other sizes include 1 quart all the way up to 20-quart and they weigh between 4 and 36 pounds when empty.
How Much do Enamel Dutch Ovens Weigh
Enameled cast iron Dutch ovens are some of the heaviest pots on the market, weighing in at around 10 pounds for the 5-quart size. Sizes include 1 quart for a single person to 13.25-quarts there is literally a size for everyone.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven | 1 | 4.3 | 9 x 7.8 x 4 |
| MasterPRO Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven | 2 | 8 | 21.7 x 11.8 x 11.4 |
| Crock-Pot Artisan Round Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven | 3 | 9.18 | 10 x 9 x 5 |
| Marquette Castings | 4 | 12.82 | 12.5 x 12.5 x 8.9 |
| Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven | 5.5 | 10.5 | 10 x 10.75 x 4 |
| Staub Dutch Oven | 5.5 | 12.9 | 12.87 x 10.24 x 6.57 |
| Lodge Enameled Dutch Oven | 6 | 14.88 | 13.25 x 11.6 x 6 |
| Tramontina Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven | 6.5 | 13.85 | 13.88 x 10.63 x 8 inches |
| Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven | 7 | 15.97 | 15.7 x 11.45 x 6.28 |
| Lodge Round Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven | 7.5 | 17.29 | 14.2 x 12.93 x 6.7 |
| Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Oval French (Dutch) Oven | 8 | 15 | 16.9 x 11 x 7.3 |
| Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven | 9 | 17.7 | 14.7 x 15.4 x 6.8 |
| Staub Round Dutch Oven | 13.25 | 22.4 | 16.93 x 10.51 x 8.43 |
How Much do Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven Weigh
A seasoned cast-iron Dutch oven will be slightly lighter than an enamel-coated cast-iron pot. They are available in a variety of sizes similar to the enamel option 2 quarts weighing about 8 pounds up to 20 quarts weighing a staggering 36 pounds.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodge Camp Dutch Oven | 2 | 8.2 | 9.5 x 9 x 6.2 |
| Cast Iron Dutch Oven Deep Pot Skillet Lid | 3 | 10.94 | 12.13 x 10.55 x 5.91 |
| Lodge Pro-Logic Dutch Oven | 4 | 12.52 | 11.42 x 11.02 x 5.91 |
| Finex Dutch Oven | 5 | 16.06 | 15.98 x 10.71 x 7.4 |
| Camp Chef Camp Dutch Oven | 6 | 16.88 | 12.6 x 12.6 x 6.75 |
| MasterPRO 7-qt Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven | 7 | 18 | 16.8 x 16.8 x 4.6 |
| Lodge Deep Dutch Oven | 8 | 19.35 | 13.2 x 13.4 x 8.6 |
| Dartmoor Iron Dutch Oven | 9 | 21.8 | 14.17 x 14.17 x 8.66 |
| Lodge Deep Camp Dutch Oven | 10 | 27 | 15.2 x 14.55 x 8.9 |
| Camp Chef Dutch Oven | 12 | 24.9 | 15.16 x 15.16 x 7.75 |
| Cuisiland Dutch Oven | 16 | 33.9 | 16 x 16 x 10 |
| King Kooker Dutch Oven | 20 | 36 | 18.11 x 8.07 x 18.11 |
How Much do Aluminum Dutch Ovens Weight
Aluminum Dutch ovens are a bit lighter than their cast iron counterparts, weighing in at around 4 pounds for a 7-quart Dutch oven. Also sized from 0.7 quarts up to a very large 28.5 quarts.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imusa USA, Caldero | 0.7 | 0.07 | 5.51 x 2.28 x 7.5 |
| Imusa USA, Caldero | 1.6 | 0.056 | 9 x 7.25 x 3.5 |
| Uniware Caldero | 2 | 2 | 7.8 x 7.8 x 3 |
| Imusa USA, Caldero | 2 | 1.63 | 9.75 x 8 x 3.5 |
| Imusa USA, Caldero | 2.6 | 2.8 | 11.5 x 9.25 x 3.5 |
| Uniware Super Quality | 3.7 | 2.38 | 9.5 x 9.5 x 3.5 |
| Wee’s Beyond | 4.8 | 2.81 | 12.5 x 10.24 x 4.33 |
| GSI Outdoors Aluminum Dutch Oven | 5 | 9.25 | 13 x 12.9 x 7.6 |
| Imusa USA, Caldero | 6.9 | 4.2 | 14.5 x 12.25 x 4.75 |
| Uniware Super Quality | 11.3 | 5.4 | 14.2 x 14.2 x 5.8 |
| Imusa USA, Caldero | 17.90 | 8.1 | 16 x 16 x 6 |
| Uniware Heavy Duty | 28.5 | 8.48 | 20.47 x 20.47 x 6.3 |
How Much do Ceramic Dutch Ovens Weight
Ceramic Dutch ovens are the lightest option on the market, weighing in at around 4 pounds. They are available in a variety of sizes from 2 quarts to 8 quarts.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMUSA. T Caldero, Dutch oven | 2 | 1.8 | 8.46 x 8.46 x 11.22 |
| Ravelli Dutch Oven | 3 | 2.64 | 12.2 x 9.1 x 5.6 |
| IMUSA. T Caldero, Dutch oven | 4.4 | 3.45 | 12.4 x 12.4 x 9.25 |
| Tramontina Ceramic Dutch Oven | 5 | 3.97 | 13.38 x 9.75 x 7.56 |
| Caraway Ceramic Dutch Oven | 6.5 | 8.47 | 15.47 x 12.68 x 6.14 |
| GreenPan Dutch Oven | 7 | 7.22 | 6.77 x 14.57 x 11.34 |
| Italian Ceramic Dutch Oven | 8 | 5.89 | 14 x 12 x 6 |
How Much do Clay Dutch Ovens Weight
Clay Dutch ovens are not lightweight, weighing in at around 8 pounds for a 6-quart size. This type of Dutch oven is generally handmade and available in limited sizes from 1.5-quart to 6-quart.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clay Dutch Oven | 1.5 | 3.25 | 9.5 x 8 x 4.5 |
| Reston Lloyd Clay Dutch Oven | 2 | 4.2 | 9.75 x 7 |
| Clay Dutch Oven | 3 | 6.9 | 11.5 x 11.5 x 7.5 |
| Reston Lloyd Clay Dutch Oven | 4 | 7 | 12.25 x 12.25 x 8.25 |
| Clay Dutch Oven | 6 | 7.85 | 13.5 x 13.5 x 9 |
How Much do Copper Dutch Ovens Weigh
Copper Dutch ovens are very lightweight the 3.8-quart size weighs in at about 3.77 pounds. The sizes I have found range from 1.6 quarts to 3.8 quarts.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| ScanPan Copper Dutch Oven | 1.6 | 1.9 | 12 x 14 x 12 |
| Demmex Hammered Copper Dutch Oven | 3.5 | 2.9 | 4 x 8.6 x 8.1 |
| Demmex Hammered Copper Dutch Oven | 3.8 | 3.77 | 9 x 9 x 4 |
How Much Do Hard Anodized Dutch Ovens Weigh
Hard-anodized Dutch ovens are made from aluminum that has been treated to make them harder and more durable. Although these pots are lightweight they are durable. Weighing in at around 6 pounds for a 7-quart pot.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circulon Acclaim Hard Anodized Dutch Oven | 4.5 | 4.78 | 13.75 x 13.38 x 5.63 |
| Anolon Allure Hard Anodized Aluminum Dutch Oven | 5 | 4.95 | 11.25 x 10.87 x 6.87 |
| Viking Culinary Hard-Anodized Dutch Oven | 6 | 5.45 | 13.43 x 9.84 x 7.3 |
| Calphalon Hard Anodized Dutch Oven | 7 | 6.32 | 14.76 x 14.21 x 7.72 |
| Calphalon Hard Anodized Dutch Oven | 8.5 | 3.7 | 14 x 4.97 |
How Much Do Stainless Steel Dutch Ovens Weigh
Stainless steel Dutch ovens are light for their exceptional quality, weighing only 6.3 pounds for the 6-quart size. However, they are not as durable as other materials and may not be suitable for use outdoors or over an open fire.
| Brand | Size Quarts | Weight Pounds | Dimensions Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cucina Round Dutch Oven | 1.25 | 2.25 | 8.75 x 6.75 x 2.75 |
| Scanpan Dutch Oven | 2 | 4.03 | 11.22 x 7.09 x 4.33 |
| Cuisinox Dutch Oven | 3 | 3.43 | 7 x 7 x 4 |
| Cuisinart Stainless Dutch Oven | 4.5 | 5 | 11 x 17 x 5.5 |
| Anolon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Dutch Oven | 5 | 5.57 | 12.25 x 12 x 5.62 |
| All-Clad Stainless Steel Dutch Oven | 5.5 | 7 | 14.3 x 10.8 x 4.8 |
| Duratux Stainless Dutch Oven | 6 | 6.3 | 14.25 x 10 x 7 |
| Scanpan Dutch Oven | 7.5 | 7.48 | 15.5 x 11.5 x 7 |
| Cooks Standard Stainless Dutch Oven | 9 | 5.4 | 14.5 x 11 x 5.5 |
| Dutch Oven 11-Quart | 11 | 6.5 | 12.5 x 12.5 x 6 |
| Dutch Oven 16-Quart | 16 | 8.64 | 16 x 14.6 x 10.1 |
How to Choose the Right Dutch Oven
When choosing the size of the Dutch oven is important to consider not only the size but also the weight of the pot. Heavier pots will retain and distribute heat more evenly. They can also withstand higher temperatures and are less likely to burn food than lighter pots.
However, they can be more difficult to lift and maneuver. Lighter pots are easier to lift and move but may not cook food as evenly.
Another important factor to consider is what type of cooking you plan to do with your Dutch oven. If you plan to use it on a camping trip or outdoors or over an open fire and hot coals, it’s important to choose a pot that is made from a durable material such as cast iron.
If you plan to use your Dutch oven indoors on the stovetop or in the oven, you have a wider range of materials to choose from, including enameled cast iron, aluminum, and stainless steel.
It’s also important to consider the size of the pot. Most Dutch ovens come in a range of sizes, from 1-quart up to 32-quart. Choose a pot that is the right size for your needs. A 6-quart pot is a good all-around size for most cooking needs.
Once you’ve considered these factors, choosing the right Dutch oven for you will be easy.
Resource: This article will help you choose the best option for your needs What is the Best Dutch oven to buy?
Cooking with a Dutch oven
The best thing about cooking with a Dutch oven is that it is the classic one-pot cooker. You can cook and serve your favorite recipes in one pot. An iron or enamel pot will also keep the leftovers warm long after the heat has been removed.
To cook with a Dutch oven follow these steps for the perfect meal every time;
- preheat the oven over medium heat
- add oil and sear or brown the meat on all sides
- add the vegetables and sauté for a few minutes
- add seasoning and liquid
- bring the liquid to a boil, replace the lid
- reduce the heat and simmer for the recipe time on the stovetop or place in a preheated oven for the same outcome
- once the dish is cooked, remove it from the heat and thicken if required
- serve hot. Enjoy!
Tips for Using a Dutch Oven
Dutch ovens are a great way to cook food evenly and with little effort. Here are some tips for using one:
- Always preheat your Dutch oven before adding food. This will help ensure that your food cooks evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd your Dutch oven. This will prevent the food from cooking evenly.
- Make sure to use enough oil or butter when cooking food in a Dutch oven. This will help prevent the food from sticking to the pot.
- Don’t forget to stir your food occasionally while it’s cooking. This even heating and sticking to the cast-iron pans.
- Remember your Dutch oven will be hot and heavy; use thick oven mitts and have a trivet ready to place the oven on to prevent burning countertops.
- Be careful when removing the lid from a Dutch oven. The steam that escapes can be very hot!
- When you’re finished cooking, let the pot cool down before washing it. This will prevent thermal shock and the pot from cracking or breaking.
Following these tips, you’ll be able to cook delicious food in your Dutch oven with little effort. So don’t be afraid to give it a try!
Benefits of Owning a Dutch Oven
Dutch ovens are a great addition to any kitchen. They’re easy to use and can be used for a variety of different recipes. Here are some of the benefits of owning a Dutch oven:
1. Along with various round Dutch oven sizes they come in a larger size oval Dutch oven that are a great option for large cuts of meat.
2. Dutch ovens are durable and last for a long time.
3. They cook food evenly, so you won’t have to worry about any hot or cold spots.
4. Dutch ovens are versatile and can be used for a variety of recipes.
5. They’re easy to clean and don’t require a lot of effort to maintain.
6. Dutch ovens are a great investment and will last for many years. So if you’re looking for a quality kitchen appliance, a Dutch oven is a good option to consider.
Dutch Oven Recipes
These are some of my favorite Dutch oven recipes you can check them out on my site.
- Lamb Roast with Bacon and Vegetables ‘Dutch Oven’
- Dutch Oven Chili Recipe: Easy Campfire or Kitchen Cooking
- Curried Sausages Dutch Oven Style
- Dutch Oven Ground Beef Curry
- Dutch Oven Porcupine Meatballs in 1 Hour
- Dutch Oven Chicken Curry: Easy and Delicious
- Dutch Oven Brownies: Oven & Campfire
- How to Cook Rice in a Cast Iron Dutch Oven
FAQs
The quick answer to the most common questions about the weight of Dutch ovens.
Are all Dutch ovens heavy?
No, not all Dutch ovens are heavy. However, most are made from cast iron or another heavy material. This is because these materials are more durable and will last longer. Dutch ovens made from lighter materials, such as aluminum, may not be as durable but they are easier to lift and carry.
How much do Le Creuset Dutch ovens weigh?
The 5.5-quart Le Creuset Signature Dutch oven weighs 11.5 pounds. Read more about Le Creuset Dutch oven Sizes.
How much does 4.5 quart Le Creuset weigh?
9.9 pounds
How much does a 7-quart cast iron Dutch oven weigh?
18 pounds
How much does a 6 qt Le Creuset Dutch oven weigh?
14.9 pounds
Is there such a thing as a lightweight Dutch oven?
Yes, there are lightweight Dutch ovens available. These Dutch ovens are made from materials such as aluminum, hard anodized, carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, ceramic, and clay. Check out my in-depth article about lightweight cast iron vs cast iron.
What is the standard-size Dutch oven?
The most common size Dutch oven is 5 to 7 quarts this size Dutch oven feeds a family of 4 comfortably. Take a deep dive with me into my article about the most popular size Dutch oven.
Why do some Dutch ovens have legs?
The Dutch ovens that have legs are designed for cooking over an open fire. The legs raise the pot off the ground, which allows heat to circulate evenly around the pot. This is especially important when cooking for a long period of time.
Read more about this innovative design Dutch oven with legs.
Conclusion – How Much Do Dutch Ovens Weigh?
So now you know how much Dutch ovens weigh in various types of materials, along with some tips for using a Dutch oven. You also understand the benefits of owning a good Dutch oven. So what are you waiting for? Get out there, choose the best Dutch oven for your needs and get cooking!
One-Pot Cooking Rocks!
Michelle
Hi, I’m Michelle, the founder, owner, author, and editor of OvenSpot. My passion for one-pot cooking commenced when I was working to prepare cafeteria lunches for school students. I am now on a mission to assist you in choosing the cooking pot or appliance you will use daily. As well as in-depth information to assist you in using and caring for your cookware and appliances. Along with the yummy recipes I use at home.
Questions? Reach out to Michelle at [email protected]