The Best Dutch Ovens and Cookware We’ve Tested
From budget-friendly enameled cast iron to heirloom Le Creuset, we tested 9 Dutch ovens to find the best for everyday cooking.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Dutch Oven (5.5 Qt)
A great Dutch oven is the most versatile piece of cookware you can own. It braises, bakes sourdough, makes stocks, and fries — all in one heavy, even-heating vessel. After testing 9 models from $40 to $500, we found the one worth the investment and the one that’s nearly as good for a third of the price.
Best Overall: Le Creuset Signature Dutch Oven
Le Creuset has been making enameled cast iron in France since 1925 — and the Signature Dutch Oven is why people keep buying them. The enamel is thicker than any competitor we tested, which means it distributes heat more evenly and resists chipping under daily use. The lid fits precisely enough to trap steam for braising, but lifts easily with the large knob.
It’s oven-safe to 500°F, works on all stovetops including induction, and comes with a lifetime warranty. In testing, our lamb shanks and sourdough loaves came out better in the Le Creuset than in anything else we tried. The Flame colorway is the classic — but the full range of 20+ colors means it can also serve as a statement piece.
What Size Dutch Oven Do You Need?
3.5 qt: Good for one or two people, or small side dishes. Too small for large roasts or big batches of soup.
5–5.5 qt: The sweet spot for most households. Fits a whole chicken, a 2 lb loaf of bread, or soup for six. This is the size we recommend for most buyers.
7–9 qt: For large families or batch cooking. Heavy to lift when full. Worth it if you regularly cook for six or more.