The Light Weight Dutch Oven: Buying Guide 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Light Weight Dutch Oven
Light Weight Dutch Oven

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 4.3-Quart, White

With the Amazon Basics 4.3-Quart Dutch Oven, you can make delicious dishes in one pot or multi-pot meals that stretch your food budget. This dutch oven has a cast iron construction for even heat distribution and retention and is hand washed only. The dutch oven also features a snug-fitting lid with a pour spout for easy cleanup. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Lodge 5 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Pre-Seasoned Pot with Lid

Dutch ovens are perfect for cooking hearty meals, whether you're in the mood to roast a turkey or dinner rolls. The Dutch oven is pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil and features a sturdy lid to contain heat and steam. The durable cast iron will last years, making every meal a memory. Read Review

3. Best Performance: Calphalon 1932450 Classic Nonstick Dutch Oven with Cover

The Calphalon 1932450 Dutch Oven with Cover is the perfect addition to any kitchen. The dual-layer nonstick coating has been specifically designed for quick food release and easy cleanup that is super durable and will last you for years. Plus, the hard-anodized aluminum construction provides heat retention for even cooking. Read Review

4. Best Safety: Blue Diamond Cookware Diamond Infused Ceramic Nonstick Dutch Oven

Whether you're making dinner or baking a cake, the Blue Diamond Cookware Diamond Infused Ceramic Nonstick is quick and easy to use. Measuring 12-inches in diameter, this dishwasher safe cookware lets you prepare meals with ease. The limited lifetime warranty and the dome lid let you enjoy worry free cooking for years to come. Read Review

A Dutch oven is one of the most popular campsite cooking utensils. It’s lightweight, which makes it easier to carry and store. But what makes a dutch oven so special? There are many different types of dutch ovens on the market. Some are made from ceramic, while others are steel. Even manufacturers offer a variety of sizes and options for their products.

These differences can make it difficult to know which dutch oven to buy. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you so that you can quickly choose between them. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about camp Dutch ovens, from choosing the right type for your needs to using them safely in the great outdoors.

Our team had to focus on researching for 15 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 4.3-Quart, White is one of the most wonderful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

  • Cast iron for even heat distribution and retention; enamel doesn't have non-stick function; hand wash only
  • Holds 4.3 quarts
  • This smaller dutch over serves 3-4 people; perfect for side dishes, sauces, or cobblers
  • Cast iron covered dutch oven in white with side handles and fitted lid; oven safe to 400 degree Fahrenheit
  • Always use hot-pads, oven mitts, or potholders while moving or removing cast iron cookware on or from the stove or oven
  • Dimensions: 12.44 x 9.96 x 4.25 inches
TOP Choice #2 Lodge 5 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Pre-Seasoned Pot with Lid
Our Score:
9.7
Lodge
  • MADE IN THE USA. Lodge has been making cast iron cookware in South Pittsburg, Tennessee (pop. 3,300) since 1896. With over 120 years of experience, their cast iron is known for its high quality design, lifetime durability, and cooking versatility.
  • 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.
  • SEASONED COOKWARE. A good seasoning makes all the difference. Lodge seasons its cookware with 100% vegetable oil; no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The more you use your iron, the better the seasoning will get.
  • MAKE EVERY MEAL A MEMORY. Lodge knows that cooking is about more than just the food; it’s about the memories.
  • 5 Quart Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven. A classic cooker that doesn't quit, the Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a classic that's great for preparing and serving memorable meals. Pre-seasoned and ready to go.
TOP Choice #3 Calphalon 1932450 Classic Nonstick Dutch Oven with Cover
Our Score:
9.5
Calphalon
  • Dual-layer nonstick for easy food release and quick cleanup
  • Durable hard-anodized aluminum construction
  • Tempered glass lid
  • Convenient measuring marks, pour spouts & straining lids 3
  • Oven safe up to 450F. Eco-friendly PFOA-free ceramic nonstick
  • Dishwasher Safe
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • Cook & Look Dome Lid: This temperature shock-resistant cast glass lid gives you an easy look at your meals without losing heat
  • Toxin-Free: Free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium
  • Blue Diamond’s Signature Diamond-Infused Ceramic Nonstick: The ultra-durable diamond-enhanced ceramic coating is 5x harder and 10x longer lasting then traditional nonstick coatings, making it scratch-resistant and metal utensil safe
  • For all stovetops, except induction
  • The dutch oven rounded dome lid provides 85% more room than a traditional lid and promotes better airflow Huge Capacity—Fits a whole chicken!
  • Oven and broiler safe up to 600°F, glass lid up to 350°F
  • Forged Aluminum Construction: 50% lighter than cast iron with all the performance.
  • ALL COOKING TOPS. Perfect for all cooking methods from searing meats to slow-cooking stews. Compatible with all stove types, including induction.
  • MAKING COOKING EASY. Enameled cooking surface for effortless food release and easy cleanup Sturdy cast iron handles for confident handling especially when cookware is full.
  • SIMPLE ELEGANCE. Beautiful design allows a seamless transition from stovetop or oven cooking to table serving. Vibrant enamel exterior finish adds a pop of color to any cooktop Included lid locks in heat and moisture for tender, flavorful results.
  • A BRAND YOU CAN TRUST. Epicurious durable cast iron construction delivers superior heat retention and ensures even cooking. Unique ridges on the underside of the lid create a self basteing enviornment keeping food moist and tender.
  • IN THE BOX. Inside you'll find a beautiful 4 Quart Grey Covered Dutch Oven Measuring- 10.5" Long x 10.5" Wide x 5.25" Tall. Total Weight: 9.5 pounds.
  • 🔥CARE INSTRUCTIONS - Dishwasher safe. Oven safe up to 530 degrees Fahrenheit. DO NOT use metal utensils or scouring pads. Compatible with all heat sources including gas, electric, ceramic, glass, halogen, induction etc. The handles may get hot, use pot holder for protection.
  • 🔥Lightweight – Only 1/3 the weight of cast iron cookware.
  • 🔥Quality Nonstick - Coated with 3-layer nonstick Swiss Ilag Ultimate for impeccable food release. The rich turquoise color complements your kitchen décor.
  • 🔥COMFORT Grip : Wide spacious handles provide a secure grip.
  • 🔥Professional Cooking - The inside coating is nonstick! Thick material gurantees the even heat distribution. Less oil and less smoke.
  • Faster Cooking – Aluminum heats faster and more evenly than other metals reducing cooking times
  • Lightweight – Cast aluminum is 1/3 the weight of traditional cast iron cookware for more comfortable maneuverability
  • Commercial Grade – Coating is resistant to sticking, chipping and cracking unlike traditional enamel coated cookware ideal for use in commercial foodservice environments
  • Heat Source Versatility – Compatible with gas, electric and induction ranges and oven-safe up to 500 ° F
  • Dishwasher Safe – Safe for use in residential and commercial dishwashers for quick and easy cleaning
  • TEMPERED GLASS LID: Featuring a see-through tempered glass lid allows you track cooking progress.
  • EASY-TO-CLEAN: Non-stick ceramic interior cleans up easily against tough foods, without affecting food’s flavor.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & durable cast aluminum is thick for even heating, but lightweight to carry easily
  • FAST AND EVEN COOKING: Professional-grade cast aluminum heats quickly, and delivers fast, even heating that's perfect for quick hearty meals.
  • ALL-IN-1 DUTCH OVEN: So versitile, use it on the stove-top, in the oven, and even store food in the fridge or freezer, not for use on induction stovetops.
  • EFFORTLESS ELEGANCE: CorningWare elevates your everyday by offering superior craftsmanship and timelessly elegant patterns.
  • ONE-POT MEALS: Perfect for casseroles, breads, deserts, fried foods, and more!
  • OVEN-TO-TABLE READY: Thoughtfully designed, the cooking pot looks great on your table for serving!
  • Sand-colored interior enamel makes it easy to monitor food as it cooks, preventing burning and sticking
  • The lightest weight per quart of any premium cast iron cookware available
  • Colorful, long-lasting exterior enamel resists chipping and cracking; interior enamel is engineered to resist staining and dulling
  • Built-in lid stabilizers provide a secure, no-slide fit
  • Oversized handles provide even weight distribution and a secure grip
  • 🔥Each Pack Includes - 1pc dutch pot with lid + 1 pair of heat protective silicone gloves + 1 heat resistant pad. Economy set deal, pay less but get more.
  • 🔥All Hobs Compatible – Unique flower induction bottom, This dutch ovens works for all heat sources including gas, electric, ceramic, glass, halogen, induction etc.
  • 🔥Quality Long Lasting 3 layer Ceramic coating- PFOA free nonstick coating used for impeccable food release, resistant to sticking, chipping and cracking. Also compared to regular black non-stick, release performance is way better. Ideal for daily use in home.
  • 🔥Lightweight less Than 2kg – Made of Cast aluminum, it is 1/3 weight of traditional cast iron cookware. Wide cast handles provide a secure hold, and won't hurt your shoulder or arms while lifting up and move around the kitchen.
  • 🔥Care Instructions - Dishwasher safe;Oven safe up to 530 degrees Fahrenheit. DO NOT use metal utensils or scouring pads during cooking and cleaning, it may damage the coating and non-stick performance permanantly.

What to Look For in a light weight dutch oven?

Some consumers are concerned about ordering light weight dutch oven. Various aspects should always be explored before making big product choices. Our expertise on light weight dutch oven will help determine the best possible decision.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting light weight dutch oven:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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