Top Lightweight Cast Iron Dutch Oven Of 2024: Reviews & Buying Guide
By, Hailey AbbottUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Lodge EC6D43 Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Island Spice Red
Step into the oven and savor the flavors with this Lodge Dutch oven. This 6-quart cooker features a porcelain enameled exterior, three burners for cooking, and a lid with a helper handle for easy transport. The cast iron provides exceptional heat retention which ensures browning of meats and vegetables, while the porcelain enamel interior is designed to transfer heat quickly and evenly, making it perfect for all types of cooking. Read Review
2. Runner Up: Amazon Basics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 7.3-Quart, Blue
This cast-iron dutch oven is the perfect size for cooking a variety of dishes, from stews to roasts to casseroles. It's also oven safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so you can use it on the stovetop or in the oven. Plus, since it's hand-wash only, you'll never have to worry about food sticking and ruining your dish. Read Review
3. Best Economical: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven With Loop Handles, 5 qt
The Lodge Pre-Seasoned Double Dutch Oven is well-built, versatile piece of cookware that can be used to sear, sauté, simmer, bake, braise or roast. Complete with loop handles for secure control and a stainless steel handle for even heating - this 5 quart cast iron Dutch oven is perfect for any occasion. The pre-seasoned exterior is easy to clean and the carbonized surface gives you the browning you want. Read Review
4. Best Durable: Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Dual Handles
When you need to make a daily batch of something delicious, you need the perfect tool. The Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven is made with durable cast iron that evens out heat distribution and retains heat for even cooking. It also has a pre-seasoned surface so your food doesn't stick and can be washed in the dishwasher. Read Review
Dutch ovens are the ultimate campfire cooking equipment. They’re a must for any outdoor enthusiast, and their benefits extend well beyond that. Moreover, they’re fantastic for indoor cooking as well. Besides being ideal for slow-cooked stews and soups, Dutch ovens are also excellent for baking meat in the oven and making quick meals with fast prep times.
When shopping for your new dutch oven, keep some things in mind to ensure you get the best product for your needs. First, ensure you get a lightweight cast iron dutch oven rather than an enameled cast iron or stainless steel one. Some models may be labeled as either, but they all have different pros and cons, so it is essential to check before purchasing them. Below we will discuss some differences between these dutch ovens and how to choose the right one for your needs.
In the end, we concluded that the Lodge EC6D43 Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Island Spice Red with Porcelain enamel on cast iron was the most highly recommended. Other options presented here are certainly worthy of your attention, and to assist you in making an informed choice, we have compiled a helpful shopping guide.
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Our Top Picks
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Holds 7.3 quarts
- Cast iron covered dutch oven in blue with side handles and fitted lid; oven safe to 400 degree Fahrenheit
- Cast iron for even heat distribution and retention; enamel doesn't have non-stick function; hand wash only
- Dimensions: 14.44 x 12.04 x 7.6 inches
- Always use hot-pads, oven mitts, or potholders while moving or removing cast iron cookware on or from the stove or oven
- This large dutch over serves 6+ people; perfect for stews or roasts
- Loop handles provide secure control
- Use to sear, sauté, simmer, bake, broil, braise, roast, fry, or grill
- Pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
- Lid converts to a 10.25 Inch Skillet
- One Lodge Pre-Seasoned 5 Quart Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven
- Unparalleled heat retention and even heating
- NOTE: Due to seasoning process of the product. surface can sometimes flake and reveal a brownish color beneath. The brownish color is not rust but caramelized seasoning baked onto the iron itself and disappears with use.
- Use in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire. Great for induction cooktops.
- Holds 2 quarts
- Cast iron for even heat distribution and retention; pre-seasoned products don't have non-stick function; hand wash only
- This small dutch over serves 1-3 people. Perfect for oatmeal, sauces, or cobblers.
- Pre-seasoned cast iron dutch oven with side handles; oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- Always use hot-pads, oven mitts, or potholders while moving or removing cast iron cookware on or from the stove or oven.
- Hand wash recommended
- Crock Pot Artisan Round Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 7-Quart, Slate Grey w/Lid
- Perfect for slow-cooking, simmering, braising, baking and more
- Porcelain enamel finish is easy to clean and naturally nonstick
- Durable cast iron construction retains and distributes heat evenly
- Hand wash with stiff brush and hot water
- Tight-fitting cast-iron lid keeps foods moist
- 10-1/4-inch diameter and 4 inches deep
- 5-quart cast iron Dutch oven is seasoned and ready to use
- Special coil on handle designed for easy lifting
- 2 in 1 Dutch Oven: The Bruntmor 5 quart pre-seasoned heavy duty 2 in 1 cast iron camping dutch oven and casserole with a lid takes care of all your cooking needs, from soups to stews to baking or even roasting, frying, grilling, broiling, braising, and sautéing meats, vegetables, and more!
- Easy cleanups: Designed for quick and easy clean ups the Bruntmor seasoned skillet can be hand washed after every use. DO NOT PUT IN DISHWASHER. Air dry.
- Create perfect meals: Whether adding simple soups to your menu or an elaborate four-course meal, this strong 5-Quart Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven will quickly become a trusted kitchen companion no matter the occasion.
- Even heat distribution: Our skillet and double dutch oven with lid increases cooking efficiency and provides even heating while leaving food consistent and flavorful. Safe for use on stoves, induction cooktops, grills, and open fires.
- 2 in 1 Dutch Oven: The Bruntmor 5 quart pre-seasoned heavy duty 2 in 1 cast iron camping dutch oven and casserole with a lid takes care of all your cooking needs, from soups to stews to baking or even roasting, frying, grilling, broiling, braising, and sautéing meats, vegetables, and more!
- Ease of use: Its sleek, unified construction allows for a fuss-free cook-and-serve option as well as secure transportation and handling. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor cooking at home or on vacation!
- Tight-fitting lids are specially designed to circulate steam and return moisture back to the food
- Light colored smooth interior enamel allows easy monitoring of cooking progress
- Ready to use, requires no seasoning
- Safe for dishwasher and metal utensils
- Compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe up to 500°F
- Stainless steel knob is safe at any oven temperature
- Ergonomic knobs and handles are designed for easy lifting
- Enameled cast iron delivers superior heat distribution and retention
- Easy-to-clean and durable enamel resists dulling, staining, chipping and cracking
- Ready to use, requires no seasoning
- Ergonomic knobs and handles are designed for easy lifting
- Safe for dishwasher and metal utensils
- Easy-to-clean and durable enamel resists dulling, staining, chipping and cracking
- Tight-fitting lids are specially designed to circulate steam and return moisture back to the food
- Light colored smooth interior enamel allows easy monitoring of cooking progress
- Enameled cast iron delivers superior heat distribution and retention
- Compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe up to 500°F
- Stainless steel knob is safe at any oven temperature
- 🥘Multifunctional design：The cast iron pot with lid is designed for holding hot coals, which will allow you to apply heat to your food from all directions.Considering the great weight of cast iron, for your safety and convenience, every dutch oven equips a lid lifter for safe removal from heat.
- 🥘Maintenance of iron dutch oven：After cooking,wash with a brush and hot water.Do not put cold water into the hot cookware or let it air dry.Make sure to dry it completely after clean. While the pot is still warm, lightly oil the inside of the camp dutch oven and put it in a dry place.
- 🥘Perfect optimal size：This is a perfectly-sized dutch oven.Not very big, convenient for you to carry, not very small, suitable for 5-7 people.this cast iron dutch oven is enough for all of your camp’s cooking needs.
- 🥘Various cooking methods：This cast iron dutch oven has good thermal conductivity,The flanged lid holds hot coals and inverts for use as a griddle,The legs will keep the griddle steady over the campfire.The portable camp stove is perfect for braising, stewing, boiling.
- 🥘The best material：This cast iron dutch oven with lid matte black interior offers enjoyable cooking without safety worries.This material provides unparalleled heat retention and heats evenly, allowing you to use this cast iron dutch oven to cook things to.
What to Look For in a lightweight cast iron dutch oven?
The lightweight cast iron dutch oven is based upon a number of factors. Studying a product differs depending on the product type. So, we're on here to help, counsel, and provide solutions to these problems.
Please keep in mind the following points for selecting lightweight cast iron dutch oven:
Shape
Temperature Range
Ease Of Cleaning
Size
Material
Accessories
FAQs
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
As we are product consulting experts with a wide range of experience, we determine correct information. Apart from that, we keep the lightweight cast iron dutch oven current. You may rest confident that the data is accurate and up to date.
Besides lightweight cast iron dutch oven, we can advise you with anything. Please do not hesitate to contact us whenever you need guidance.
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