The Good Dutch Oven: Buying Guide Of 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Good Dutch Oven
Good Dutch Oven

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Lodge EC6D43 Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Island Spice Red

Lodge’s Enameled Dutch Oven is perfect for cooking anything from stews and braises to breads and casseroles. This oven is made from cast iron, and it’s enameled with porcelain so there’s no need to worry about the oven splattering and scratching your cookware. It also has a flat lid, so it can be used as a serving dish. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Cast Iron Dutch Oven - 7-Quart Deep Pot + Lid + Pan Scraper

Cuisinel Cast Iron Dutch Ovens are the ultimate cooking tool. Their quality, heat retention, and durability make them perfect for all your cooking needs. Whether you're using our premium cookware on your kitchen stove, oven, BBQ or even an inconsistent campfire, the lossless heat retention and superior heat distribution makes managing your cooking times effortless. Read Review

3. Best Durable: Crock-Pot Artisan Round Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Crock Pot's Dutch Oven is a beautiful addition to any kitchen. With its sleek and elegant design, it can be used in the oven or on the stovetop. It's dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. The 7-quart capacity is enough for a hearty meal for four, and it heats up quickly and evenly to save time. Read Review

4. Best Portable: Overmont Camp Dutch Oven Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Lid

The Overmont Camp Dutch Oven is an all-in-one cooking and serving solution. It's a beautiful piece of art that can be used for searing, frying and baking. An elegant and versatile cookware to use in a kitchen or out on the campfire. Read Review

Dutch oven cooking is one of the easiest ways to get great results quickly. This is because the oven acts as a heat reservoir, retaining heat, so your food stays warm and tender. And with Dutch ovens made from heavy-gauge metals like stainless steel and cast aluminum, they’re also one of the most durable methods for cooking too.

That makes them a fantastic option if you plan on sticking to regular use instead of catering only occasionally. There are plenty of reasons why you should consider getting yourself one of these. Here we’ll look at some Good Dutch Oven Recommendations for those looking for more than an inexpensive alternative to cast iron pans. Let’s begin!

We have chosen many of the good items currently available, including our Lodge EC6D43 Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Island Spice Red with Porcelain enamel on cast iron - our favorite one. We also provide you with a Cast Iron Dutch Oven - 7-Quart Deep Pot + Lid + Pan Scraper model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice.

You will be surprised at the information we are about to share below! Let's explore the unique features of products from famous brands right here.

Our Top Picks

  • WHAT IS PORCELAIN ENAMEL ON CAST IRON? It is actually glass that becomes bonded to the cast iron at high temperatures. A particulate of glass, called frit, is applied to the cast iron vessel and then baked at temperatures between 1200 and 1400° F. The glass frit melts and fuses to the cast iron, forming a bond. Porcelain enamel on cast iron is heat tolerant and impervious to water and other consumables.
  • FAMILY-OWNED. Lodge is more than just a business; it’s a family. The Lodge family founded the company in 1896, and they still own it today. From environmental responsibility to community development, their heads and hearts are rooted in America. All Lodge seasoned cast iron and carbon steel cookware is proudly made in the USA, meaning you’ll get craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. Lodge Enameled Iron products are made in China to strict metallurgical and casting specifications.
  • MAKE EVERY MEAL A MEMORY. Lodge knows that cooking is about more than just the food; it’s about the memories.
  • A flawless pairing of form and function that doesn't quit, the Lodge Dutch Oven is an enameled cast iron classic that's great for preparing and serving memorable meals.
TOP Choice #2 Cast Iron Dutch Oven - 7-Quart Deep Pot + Lid + Pan Scraper
Our Score:
9.8
Cuisinel
  • PRECISION HEAT DISTRIBUTION and UNRIVALED HEAT RETENTION – Cuisinel cast iron is famous for that perfect, succulent sear, without losing any heat when cold food hits the pan. Whether you're using our premium cookware on your kitchen stove, oven, BBQ or even an inconsistent campfire, the lossless heat retention and superior heat distribution makes managing your cooking times effortless. Can be used for frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising and sautéing meats, vegetables and more!
  • SUPERIOR PRE-SEASONED CRAFTSMENSHIP – Crafted to last for generations, Cuisinel sources the highest quality materials in casting our cookware. Cuisinel cast iron is notoriously safer than teflon or other non-stick materials. Continuous easy-to-follow seasoning will result in a safe, healthy and virtually non-stick pot. After every use, cast iron should be hand washed, dried thoroughly on the stove at medium heat and seasoned with natural oils; Do not put in dishwasher and do not air dry.
  • THE DUTCH OVEN - NOW WITH A HEAVY DUTY CAST IRON BRAISER LID – Cuisinel once again revolutionizes the culinary world by introducing the dutch oven with a braiser lid. With our meticulously placed drip-points - along with even moisture and heat distribution - you can now take your cast iron wizardry to the next level by effectively turning your pot into a casserole or braiser with perfect cooking results. Cooker and cover can withstand any temperatures without fear of shattering or cracking.
  • ERGONOMIC DUAL SIDE-HANDLE DESIGN – Designed for 2-handed use and a more confident grip, the intuitive dual handle skillet makes for a more robust and rugged cooking utensil - along with the deep pot, lends itself for casseroles, braising and baking: cakes, pies, baked mac and cheese, along with cooking and frying all your favorite classics: steaks, burgers, eggs, fish, grilled cheese and much, much more.
  • COOKWARE TO LAST A LIFETIME AND BEYOND - Cast iron cookware notoriously improves with use, lasts a lifetime and can be passed down from generation to generation. Create a lifetime legacy of warm, fond memories with friends and family and imbue those sentiments into this superb cast iron cookware and you'll smile every time you use - and so will anyone that you gift cast iron to!
  • USA-BASED CUSTOMER CARE - RISK-FREE MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE: As the premier cast iron cookware brand, Cuisinel cares about the quality and craftsmanship of every product we design! However, if there is any issue or any reason this item is not for you, thanks to Amazon's seamless, quick and easy 30-day money-back guarantee, this purchase is totally risk free! Step up your kitchen game with this unique must-have now and gift it at any event.
  • CARE and USE GUIDE + LIFETIME WARRANTY: Each set includes our Care and Use Guide for beginners and professional alike, so you can be confident in how to care for your new set. So, go on, fire up your Cuisinel cookware. If anything happens, it's on us. In additional to Amazon's seamless 30-day money back guarantee, Cuisinel Cast Iron guarantees the quality and durability of all its products for a lifetime, so you can be assured that you are making the right choice and there is no risk to you.
  • INCLUDED SILICONE HANDLE HOLDERS + PAN SCRAPER + CARE and USE GUIDE – This set comes complete with non-slip, heat-resistant handle covers providing a confident grip while cooking or serving food (always use oven mitt when handling cast iron cookware). Nifty Pan Scraper makes cleaning easy. Dishwasher safe and easy to hand-wash handle holders and scraper. Each set includes our Care and Use Guide for beginners and professional alike, so you can be confident in how to care for your new set.
TOP Choice #3 Crock-Pot Artisan Round Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
Our Score:
9.7
Crock-Pot
  • Porcelain enamel finish is easy to clean and naturally nonstick
  • Crock Pot Artisan Round Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 7-Quart, Sapphire Blue w/Lid
  • Hand wash recommended
  • Durable cast iron construction retains and distributes heat evenly
  • Perfect for slow-cooking, simmering, braising, baking and more
  • Energy-saving and therefor good for the environment. Heat is evenly distributed and held, making it great for deep frying, searing and baking. It also has the advantages of great heat insulation and a good seal, so even a novice camper can do a delicious roasted chicken with this pot.
  • Once you are finished cooking, cleaning and after care are simple. Make sure to dry the pot completely after cleaning and whilst the pot is still warm, lightly oil the inside of the pan with your oil of choice, a thin coat is all you need. Use a cloth or paper towel to rub off any excess. Overmont are dedicated to providing the best sporting experience for the new generation of outdoor sports enthusiasts. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any issues with the equipment.
  • All-round Dutch Oven. The integral legs on both pot and lid allow the oven to sit perfectly over the campfire; the lid can also be used as a skillet for frying. Moreover, cast iron pots are not coated in toxic chemicals. It is a safe non-stick surface.
  • Well known as a Lifetime Pot. Compared with pots of other materials, the Overmont Dutch Oven is made of cast iron, and will last a lifetime if cared for properly. It can be used both on the stove and in the oven at home, providing value for money.
  • Considering the considerable weight of cast iron, Overmont equips a lid lifter for the Dutch Oven. The durable handle also allows you to hang it over the open fire. Our Logo design of an eagle on the lid means, freedom, power, strength and desire for life.
  • Tale as Old as Time: As long as dutch ovens have existed, they’ve been made of cast iron. Know why they’re still so popular? Because nothing will last as long, cook so well in the kitchen or out on the trail, and non-stick with the best of them. Some good things just need to stay good. Ideally, you want a dutch oven that’s going to get better with use and last you into old age. Our cast iron is built to accomplish just that. It’s why we include a limited lifetime warranty.
  • Simple and Stylish: Not that a dutch oven will ever be a showpiece in the kitchen, but we take pride in the aesthetic of all our products. With our cast iron, we combined the classic, rustic qualities of grandma’s dutch oven—what everyone knows and loves—with some slick, smooth surfaces, and a nice and modern finish. And, we don’t add any paint to any of our cast iron—like some of the other brands out there.
  • A Premium Pot: Pre-seasoned with 100% organic, fatty-acid rich flax seed oil from Canada. All inside surfaces milled smooth, providing a fuss-free cooking experience—a surprisingly hard feature to find. And, thanks to the innovative drip rings in our cast iron lid (included with purchase), moisture circulates evenly throughout the pot while your food cooks, making for a perfect finished feast.
  • True Support: Our friendly team in St. Louis are industry experts at-the-ready to assist you with any questions that might arise about your cast iron dutch oven. We take pride in our work and want you to have a great experience from beginning to end.
  • A Camper’s Dream: Prepare the ultimate feasts while you bask in mother nature. The Greater Goods dutch oven is a winning cooking vessel for the great outdoors: make delicious one pot recipes like stews, soups, chili, and pasta. You can even bake bread in it!
  • 🏕️ GREAT FOR CAMPING - Long legs & handles let this cast iron Dutch oven with lid sit OR hang over a fire. This outdoor cookware cast iron Dutch pot doubles as an oven with coals on top – this 3-in-1 large Dutch oven for fire does it all!
  • 💯 LARGER SIZE - This 6qt Dutch oven cast iron is 12-inch in diameter - enough camping cast iron cookware to feed the crew! Forget cast iron camping cookware that limits you - with this large Dutch oven, camping meals are even better than home!
  • ➕ ADDED EXTRAS - Use the downloadable recipe eBook to cook in your 6 quart Dutch oven. Fire pit safety is easy with the added Dutch oven lid lifter made from stainless steel. Then, easily carry your pot anywhere in the included heavy-duty tote bag!
  • 👌 CAST IRON BENEFITS - Durable, pre-seasoned, & easy to maintain – that's the magic of this Dutch oven pot with lid. Cast iron pots are unmatched in heat retention!
  • 🔄 DUAL-FUNCTION LID - This camp Dutch oven is a multiuse hero - the lid doubles as a skillet of this large cast iron pot, so you won’t need extra campfire cooking equipment.
  • 【Internal Circulation Shower Design】 -The 40 evenly distributed dots on the lid accelerate the condensation of evaporated water vapor in the food and drip it evenly into the food. In contrast, other water vapor flows smoothly back into the dutch oven because of the specific curvature design. The water vapor circulates and locks inside the dutch oven, fully releasing the flavor and nutrients of the ingredients.
  • 【9 LBS Real Cast Iron】 -vancasso cast iron dutch oven pot's body is made of high purity ore; the body of the dutch oven has a uniform thickness, even heat distribution, and even the taste of the food cooked. Even after leaving the heating source, it can keep warm for a long time, so you don't have to worry about the food getting cold while waiting for your family and friends to arrive. When you take the dutch oven, always use oven mitts or pot holders; the handles will be HOT!
  • 【Superior Quality With vancasso】 We are here to offer you only the best quality products designed to make your life easier. If you need any help, please feel free to contact us. Our unparalleled 24/7 live customer support is ready and waiting to assist with anything you need!
  • 【Historic Enamel】 -Enamel used to be more precious than gold and was later used in the firing of the porcelain, which became the exclusive of the royal family. It was not until the 20th century that the French invented the enameled cast iron pot by combining the iron and enamel techniques. The vancasso dutch oven uses non-stick safety enamel coating, no cadmium or lead, and is non-toxic and harmless even at high temperatures. Easy to clean and will never fade.
  • 【One Pot for Multiple Use - Suitable for Families of 1-3 People】 -This 3.5-Quart vancasso enameled cast iron dutch oven is great for beginners or pros. It is resistant to acidic and alkaline substances, and you can use it to marinate food before cooking (prepare, cook, and serve food in the same pot). Safe for braising, simmering, baking, broiling, and roasting on gas, electric, ceramic, glass top, and induction stoves (not include microwave ovens); oven safe to 500°F.
  • Works on all stovetops, including induction
  • Heat-Radiant aluminum core fused between two layers of stainless steel ensures even cooking from every side
  • Unique rolled edges designed for drip free pouring of sauces, reductions and more
  • Durable, scratch-resistant materials are oven safe up to 430 Degree Fahrenheit and dishwasher safe
  • Clear, tempered glass lids make it easy to check the progress of your dish without lifting the lid
  • Easy-to-clean and durable enamel resists dulling, staining, chipping and cracking
  • Enameled cast iron delivers superior heat distribution and retention
  • Light colored smooth interior enamel allows easy monitoring of cooking progress
  • Ready to use, requires no seasoning
  • Tight-fitting lids are specially designed to circulate steam and return moisture back to the food
  • Superior Quality With Mueller – We are here to offer you only the best quality products designed to make your life easier. If you need any help, please feel free to contact us. Our unparalleled 24/7 live telephone customer support is ready and waiting to assist with anything you need!
  • Original Kitchen Multitasker – The DuraCast 6Qt Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is the ultimate cookware piece that is key to enhancing any meal from a delicious pot roast to gourmet macaroni and cheese. The natural heat retention of the cast iron pot combined with the enamel finish allows you to fry and sauté, sear, slow cook, stew, braise, boil, deep fry, roast, broil and bake! Suitable for all cooktops, including induction, oven and broil, it’s the most versatile cooking pot you will ever need!
  • Premium Quality – Dutch ovens will go far in your kitchen. Better yet, our enamel cast iron cookware will last for years with its heirloom durability. Unrivaled in efficiency, the cookware will distribute heat evenly and keep meals warmer for longer. The slower cooking times maximize flavor, while the tight-fitting lid seals in moisture for succulent results, with clever raised nodes that continuously baste your food.
  • Easy To Clean – Our cast iron dutch oven with lid is dishwasher safe but deserves the love and care of a good hand wash. After each use, let it cool and wash the cookware in warm water and a mild detergent.
  • Sleek Design – The elegant design is supported by wide, sturdy handles and a stainless steel knob on the lid for easy handling. The high-gloss enamel finish provides superior rust resistance and a natural non-stick interior that will enhance over time. With a stylish pop of color to bring personality and boost creativeness in the kitchen, the 6 quarts dutch oven cast iron offers everything you need for everyday cooking or to showcase a feast straight from oven to table.

What to Look For in a good dutch oven?

The good dutch oven is the standard appliance in your life. Seeing that the item is introduced with many models with distinct functions and features, several challenges in selecting. However, anything has its solution, not except for that. We, the high-qualified expert in this area, will be available here to give you support.

Of course, looking for the good dutch oven which suits you most requires many criteria to consider. You are projected to think carefully about each of the features below so that your choice will be appropriate:

Material

Cast iron is the most common material used for Dutch ovens, regardless of whether they are enameled. These pots can be found in stainless steel, aluminum, or ceramic. We'll talk more about the impact of material on everything, from heat capacity and reactivity, to longevity, weight and maintenance.

Temperature Range

Dutch ovens are designed for low- and slow cooking (usually under 400 degrees), so they can only be used at temperatures between 400-500 degrees F. A few lid handles are so sensitive that they can restrict your use of the oven. For campfire cooking, you might consider a Dutch oven capable of withstanding significantly higher temperatures.

Size

There are many sizes of Dutch ovens. They can range from 1/4-quart to 13-quart. These Dutch ovens make great serving dishes like French onion soup, cobbler or French potato cobbler. The most preferred size is a 5- to seven-quart. This oven can store a whole chicken, bake two pounds of bread and, depending on the type of cooking you do, will easily serve four people with leftovers. If you're choosing an oven size, it is better to select one that is large enough than too small. Cooking small amounts in a large pot is easier than cooking them all. Consider that Dutch ovens can be very bulky so you need to ensure you have enough storage space.

Shape

Round and oval are two of the most commonly used Dutch oven shapes. Oval is the most widely used shape. This oven can sit well on a single burner, allows for even heating and is also deeper. The oval oven's dimensions are typically smaller than the round ones. They can be used to cook longer pieces of meat. Oval ovens don't evenly distribute heat on the stovetop as do round ovens. However, you won't notice any difference in temperature if the oven is preheated before you use it.

Accessories

Dutch ovens are great for home use and don't need many accessories. A trivet is necessary if your Dutch oven will be used directly from the oven or stove to your table. It should match the oven's shape and keep it slightly higher than the table. The trivet protects your tabletop and prevents it from getting scratched. Cast iron heats extremely well so the pot will continue to radiate heat even after being removed from the stove. To prevent burning, thick potholders are a must. A lid lifter is a good option for camping Dutch ovens. It allows you to move the lid around if you have hot coals.

Ease Of Cleaning

A cookware that is easy enough to clean to meet your needs and be worthy of its abilities to cook will do. Although cast iron is more delicate than other types, it can still be used for browning, braising and similar tasks. We don't want anything to be so complicated that it doesn't make your kitchen an asset.

FAQs

Why Use A Dutch Oven Over Other Cookware?

The key word is versatility. The Dutch oven can easily be converted from stovetop to oven and is well-suited to all cooking styles. Because of its durable construction, it can withstand frequent use. Many Dutch ovens have enough appeal to be used as a serving dish. This adds an element of rustic elegance and charm to any table.

Can You Put A Cold Dutch Oven In The Oven?

Cast iron can crack if it is subject to rapid heat changes. You will need to bring your Dutch oven to room temperature if it is still cold from the fridge. A Dutch oven that is cold or room temperature can be placed in a hot oven. They will then need to preheat simultaneously.

What Can You Use A Dutch Oven For?

A Dutch oven can be used in the original multicooker for making soups, stews and braises. It also allows you to boil water for pasta or bread baking. The Dutch oven can be used on the stovetop or in the oven.

Can You Put A Dutch Oven In The Dishwasher?

It depends. While most enameled-cast iron-type ovens can be put in the dishwasher, it may not work for you. They tend to take up much more space than normal, so hand washing them might prove easier. As the soap and water can strip the seasoning from non-enameled (or raw) cast iron, it is not recommended to put them in the dishwasher. Here's a guide on how to properly care for raw iron.

Is An Uncoated Or Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Better?

An enameled casting iron can be easier to clean and maintain than uncoated cast iron vessels. It is safe to use enameled Dutch ovens for cast iron Dutch ovens, as acidic ingredients such as tomato sauce can cause cast iron to lose its seasoning.

What's The Best Way To Clean A Dutch Oven?

While you may be able to put your Dutch oven in the dishwasher according to some manufacturers, it is possible for the enamel coating of the Dutch ovens to deteriorate over time. For the best Dutch oven performance, wash it by hand with dish soap.

Look through again. The brand of product you choose will affect the options available to you. Moreover, pricer models will offer more customization options. We've covered top-scoring models varying at some price. So you have more choices to consider. Furthermore, our staff will update the info related to good dutch oven with the newest data. Let check our site more regularly to get the latest options.

If you want to take practical support from our expert, don't hesitate to give us feedback. Please feel free to contact us. Hopefully, with our buying guide, you can have a happy shopping for the product.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio