Top 10 Best Dutch Oven 2020 Reviews & Buying Guide
A Dutch oven is a must-have product in everyone’s kitchen. I have been using the oven for the past 20 years as it has served me well all these years with maximum efficiency.
To be frank, I have used more than 5 different Dutch ovens in these years and these Dutch ovens came from different brands. A Dutch oven has several advantages such as it is safe to use, easy to clean and it can bring various health benefits for your family. As most of the Dutch ovens come with pre-seasoning that could last for a very long time, it could be used for years to cook good food. Once you find the seasoning wavers off, you could consider seasoning the product again with ease.
However, we understand that it is not easy to purchase a high-quality Dutch oven as it comes from different brands and designs. So, you need to be careful to check the product specification and see whether the product comes from a reputed brand and whether the product is made of durable material and comes with a lifetime warranty. Considering these factors, here is the list of 10 best Dutch ovens on the market today. We also hope our detailed review on the Best Pizza Oven will give you a broader view on different types of ovens available in the market.
Top Selling Dutch Oven
Table of Contents
How to Use a Dutch Oven?
Though the first step is always the hardest, it doesn’t mean that you should not change for betterment. So if you are a first-time user for this product, here’s a guide for you. It may feel challenging at first, but once you are familiar with it, you will love to cook using it.
The only reason to use the Dutch oven is the flavor of coal which mixes well with your dishes. The slow cooking preserves the taste and provides you finger-licking food. Due to this reason, this type of cooking is widely popular around the world.
The perfect method of using coal will decide how tasty your dishes. So, let’s follow through this basic guide to get the tantalising taste out of your cooking.
1. Coal Guide for Food – There is no rule for cooking but we have a basic tip to ease up the work. As you have to place coal on top and bottom of the Dutch oven, you have to understand how much is right. The correct way would be adding 3 to the diameter of the oven for the top part and subtracting 3 for the bottom part.
Tip – As if the diameter is 12 inches then you have to place 9 coals below the oven and 15 coals above it. This will prevent food from sticking to the bottom.
2. Coal Guide for Liquid Stuff – If you wish to heat water inside a Dutch oven, you do not need to place coals on the lid because you can provide higher energy from the bottom. It will concentrate heat and give you boiling water in no time. Always place the same number of coals underneath the oven for better efficiency.
Tip – Placing coals on the top of the lid can be dangerous as boiling water will force the lid to open and all those burning coals can fall around. So, do not try placing coals on top when there is liquid inside.
3. Substitute lid of skillet or griddle – Although the lid of the Dutch oven is far different from a skillet or griddle, it can be used to prepare quick breakfast. As you turn the lid upside down, it is ready for frying bacon, pancakes,eggs and sausages. Just make sure to use a lower number of coals from the diameter to cook properly. Or, you can adjust the heat as per need.
Tip – If you want to use the method mentioned above, then make sure you buy a Dutch oven which is slightly shallow from the mid part and it is deep enough to fry an egg perfectly.
These are some basic methods that everyone can follow to prepare tasty food with ease. Make sure that you choose the method which suits to your need. Let’s move to our next section on what to do and what not to do with a Dutch oven.
Dutch Oven Cooking – DOs and Don’ts
Here are some Dos and Don’ts to follow to cook better meals and ensure the oven to be long-lasting.
- Always select a Dutch oven with small legs because they are easy to use and you can store them easily. Smaller model also provides better heating. Do not buy large legs Dutch oven because they are not that energy efficient for a common household buyer.
- As you buy a Dutch Oven, always wash it with hot water to clean perfectly. Do not wash with soap. After you cook, use the same method to clean and go for pat dry. Do not store your oven just after washing it. Season your oven with vegetable oil and then store it.
- Focus on the use of metal cooking utensils as well as the wooden one because they will help to prepare food with ease. Do not go for plastic or silicon made utensils as they can melt during the cooking.
- Do use your nose when you want to know whether the food is ready or it is in between. Some people have a great sense of smell that they can tell about the expected time. Do not go too close when the fire is too high.
- Rinse the Dutch oven when the temperature of the oven is near to the room temperature. You can get a perfect rinse by this method. But, do not pour cold water in a hot oven because it can lead to cracks.
- Clean your enameled oven after every use before the deposit of harmful substances. To speed up the process, you can use soapy water for a better experience but make sure that you do not use too much soap.
- Use a potholder when you are going to pick it up because the surface can burn your hand. Make sure that you do not assume a Dutch oven cools after an hour of use. These ovens take time to cool down.
- Avoid dropping the Dutch oven because it is heavy and it can crack pretty easily.
Best Buy Dutch Oven Reviews For 2020
1. Lodge 7 Quart Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven
What we like
- Can serve for a variety of cooking needs
- Perform even heating and great heat retention
- Easy to clean and store
What we don’t like
- Too large capacity for a single person household
- Dimension: 12” x 12” x 5.5”
- Weight: 15.16 pounds
- Material: cast iron
- Pre-seasoned to feature non-stick and non-chemical properties
- Works well on stoves, grill, campfire, induction cook top and oven
- Wash only with warm water and mild soap
Since our grandmothers’ generation, cast iron cookware has dominated the market as the material provides even heating, versatility and durability. Therefore, you should really consider the best long-lasting Dutch oven – the Lodge 7 Quart Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven. It aims to serve for your generations to come. Supporting unparalleled heat retention and even heating, you can use this Dutch oven for multiple cooking needs such as searing, sautéing, simmering, baking, broiling, braising, roasting, frying and grilling.
Not only does it serves various cooking needs, you can use it on different heating surfaces such as on the stove, on the grill, in the oven and induction cook tops. You can even bring this Dutch oven for your camping trip as it is great over a campfire. Coming with a total capacity of 7-quart, you can use this Dutch oven right after you receive it. It is pre-seasoned for a easy-release finish where the more you use, the more seasoning you will get.
This Dutch oven also comes wit great additional features. First, it comes with two handles on two opposite sides that allows the user to carry the oven with ease. It also comes with high quality seasoned iron lid. The manufacturer has also incorporated loop handles on the lid to remove the lid with ease. Cleaning is an easy job as you just wash it by hand with mild soap and dry it immediately with a paper towel. For storage purpose, you can hang or store it in a dry place.
Among the top quality Dutch ovens available in the market today, the Lodge 7 Quart Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a ideal choice for large families.
Check out our detailed review on the Best Oven Mits available in the market too for your additional cookware knowledge.
2. Lodge L8DOL3 Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Dual Handles
What we like
- Pre-seasoned to prevent food stuck on the surface
- Perform even heating and great heat retention
- Best recommended for slow cooking
- Food moisture is kept
What we don’t like
- User reviewed chipping on the lid
Key features:
- Dimension: 2” x 2” x 2”
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Material: cast iron
- Capacity: 5 Quart
- Pre-seasoned to feature non-stick and non-chemical properties
- Come with a self basting domed lid
- Works well on stoves, grill, campfire and oven
- Wash only with a stiff nylon brush and hot water
Here’s another Dutch oven from Lodge, the Lodge L8DOL3 Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Dual Handles. We believe that a manufacturer with a 125-years experience will surely sustain their utmost quality in manufacturing Dutch ovens. As pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil with no synthetic coatings or chemicals, this Dutch oven is ready to go right out of the box.You will be amazed by the seasoning as the more you use, the better the seasoning will get.
Uniquely designed for slow-cooking recipes, this Dutch oven is a multi-functional cookware that is capable of holding a heap of chili, chicken and rice, or fruit cobbler. As its cast iron material distributes even heat and retains heat well, you can sear your meat at a higher temperatures and keep it warm until it is ready to be served. Similarly to the previous model, it can be used for a campfire too.
Featuring a flat-bottom that sits perfectly on the stovetop, burner or in the oven, the product has a self basting domed lid that could preserve moisture. The lid also incorporates with high quality loop that enables the user to remove the lid with ease.
After cooking, clean with a stiff nylon brush and hot water and then towel dry the cookware. Never use soap or any other harsh detergents. The Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a classic and indestructible cookware that serves memorable meals for generations. If you are rather interested in other types of ovens, here’s an exclusive list of 10 Best Roaster Ovens for Your Kitchen.
3. Lodge L8DD3 Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven
What we like
- Feature lids that can be converted into a skillet
- Can serve for a variety of cooking needs
- Perform even heating and great heat retention
What we don’t like
- The lid is not equipped with a loop handle
Key features:
- Dimension: 12.62” x 10.38” x 6.3”
- Weight: 12.37 pounds
- Material: cast iron
- Pre-seasoned to feature non-stick and non-chemical properties
- Works well on stoves, grill, campfire, induction cook top and oven
- Wash only with warm water and mild soap
Never loathe us as we stuff you with Dutch oven from Lodge as this product is certainly different from its counterparts. Here’s the best Dutch Oven with multi-functional lid – the Lodge L8DD3 Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven. You might wonder how the lid can be multi-functional, it can actually function as a 10.25 inch skillet. This indicates that you get two different products by just buying one item. For us, it is certainly a good money bargain.
Besides being a skillet, the lid can be used as a domed cover to provide space for roasts, no-knead bread recipes, soups, and stews. For easy lifting and control, the Dutch oven is equipped with loop handles. Similarly with its counterparts, it offers multiple cooking styles with excellent heat distribution and retention. On top of this, you can use it in the oven, on the stove or grill, and over a campfire.
Being in the line of Lodge seasoning series, you can be well-assured that this product is also pre-seasoned with vegetable oils and the pre-seasoning does not vanish soon. Wash it by hand with mild soap and towel dry it promptly. For storage purpose, you can hang or store it in a dry place. So, if you are in need of both Dutch oven and a skillet, make sure you don’t miss out this great deal.
4. Cuisinart 445-22 Contour Stainless 5-Quart Dutch Oven
What we like
- Superior and consistent heat distribution
- Oven and broiler safe; freezer safe
- Dishwasher safe
What we don’t like
- Too lightweight as compared to other models
Key features:
- Dimension: 6.13” x 12.75” x 10.75”
- Weight: 4.2 pounds
- Material: stainless steel
- Comes with a pure aluminum-encapsulated base and tempered glass lids with stainless rims
- Feature stay-cool comfortable stick handle
You can have options other than cast iron material too for your Dutch oven. Here’s the Cuisinart 445-22 Contour Stainless 5-Quart Dutch Oven, an oven made of stainless steel for even heat distribution. Most importantly, the surface will not react and alter the natural flavor of any ingredients. To further enhance its heat distribution, the base is equipped with an aluminum disc. This makes it suitable for using with an oven and a broiler.
This Dutch oven also comes with a transparent tempered glass lid that seals the moisture and flavor for efficient cooking and you can keep track of the cooking progress too. You can also have a solid grip with the secured stick handles. As a chemical-free product, the Cuisinart 445-22 Contour Stainless 5-Quart Dutch Oven is your ideal choice for a stainless steel Dutch oven.
5. Calphalon Classic Nonstick Dutch Oven with Cover
What we like
- Able to cater to large capacity
- Convenient measurement of ingredients
- Oven safe
- Easy to clean
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for single person household
Key features:
- Dimension: 14.75” x 14.25” x 7.75”
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Material: hard-anodized aluminum
- Feature dual-layer nonstick interior
- Comes with a tempered glass lid and cast stainless steel loop handles
- Comes with measuring marks, pour spouts & straining lids
- Dual-layer nonstick for easy food release, and quick cleanup
- Oven safe up to 450°F
You can enjoy more variations for Dutch ovens with the Calphalon Classic Nonstick Dutch Oven as the whole product is made of hard anodized aluminum. Similarly with materials mentioned above, it offers fast and even heating. You can now brown and sear meats, prepare family meals and slow cook meals. For easy transfer from stove top to oven, this product comes with sturdy loop handles for pot roasts, casseroles, and baked pasta dishes.This product is designed to withstand heat up to 450 Fahrenheit in an oven.
One of the most attractive and notable features of this Dutch oven is that it comes with a dual-layer non stick coating for easy cleaning. Another notable thing about this product is that it features transparent lids that comes with top quality loop handles. You can easily remove the lid even when the Dutch oven is hot.
The product also comes with convenient measuring marks, a straining cover, and pour spouts. Every cooking task will become so easy when you have the Calphalon Classic Nonstick Dutch Oven with Cover.
6. Lodge L10DCO3 Cast Iron Deep Camp Dutch Oven
What we like
- Able to cater to large capacity and outdoor cooking
- Multi-functional cookware
- Works well with a variety of heating surfaces
- Unparalleled heat retention and even heating
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for single person household
Key features:
- Dimension: 12” x 12” x 5.5”
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Material: cast iron
- Pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
- Works well on the grill or over a campfire
Featuring one of the best largest Dutch ovens available in the market – the Lodge L10DCO3 Cast Iron Deep Camp Dutch Oven. This Dutch oven comes with a total capacity of 8-quart to cover you whenever you’re roasting a chicken in the oven, experimenting with slow-cooking recipes or cooking chili over the campfire. Constructed from cast iron, you can be well assured on the heat distribution and retention. This Dutch oven is surely the right tool for searing, sauteing, simmering, braising, baking, roasting, and frying.
This Dutch oven is suitable for usage on the grill or open fire and coals for camp cooking. Here are some useful tips for efficient cooking. Use the flanged lid to to contain hot coals on top for baking, stewing, and roasting and also as a griddle. You can place the Dutch oven perfectly over hot coals with the integral legs. For slow cooked meals, hang the bail handle over a tripod. Mind that you should remove cookware from the stovetop after cooking.
As the whole product is pre-seasoned, you can use it right away when you receive it. The seasoning is done with vegetable oil and the manufacture guarantees the product to be chemical free as the seasoning does not vanish easily. It also features a tight-fitting lid that helps lock in nutrition and flavor and loop handles for convenient handling.
As Lodge has you covered with the included Camp Dutch Oven Cooking 101 cookbook, we assure you that this Dutch oven comes with an excellent design that allows excellent cooking of food.
7. Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware
What we like
- Able to cater to large capacity
- Enable clear food visibility
- Oven safe
- Dishwasher safe
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for single person household
Key features:
- Dimension: 13.46” x 10.58” x 3.91”
- Weight: 3.4 pounds
- Material: brushed stainless steel
- Comes with tempered-glass lids and stainless steel handle
- Suitable for washing in the dishwasher
If you are considering a stainless steel Dutch oven, we have another option for you to consider – the Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 5-qt Dutch Oven. Featuring aluminum placed between the two stainless steel layers, You can enjoy the enhanced heating efficiency. You can now take control of the cooking process for browning meats for savory stews, searing and braising meats and preparing delicious soups. Constructed from non-porous stainless steel cooking surface, it is safe to use.
Looking into the additional features, it comes with a tempered-glass lid for you to monitor your food and for locking the food flavor and moisture. You can easily transfer the food from the stove top to your dining table with its long, brushed stainless steel handle.
As this Dutch oven is dishwasher safe and comes with a lifetime warranty, you can confidently purchase the Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 5-qt Dutch Oven.
8. Cuisinart FCT3545-24 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Dutch Oven
What we like
- Suitable for small family serving
- Perform even heating
- Dishwasher safe
What we don’t like
- Cannot cater to large capacity
Key features:
- Dimension: 11” x 17” x 5.5”
- Weight: 1 pound
- Capacity: 4.5-quart
- Material: tri ply stainless steel
- Suitable for washing in the dishwasher
If you feel that a cast iron Dutch oven is too heavy for you, you can consider this best lightweight Dutch oven – the Cuisinart FCT3545-24 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Dutch Oven. Featuring three-layer stainless steel design, you will have exceptional heat surrounding along the bottom and side walls of the cookware evenly. An additional aluminum core is equipped to ensure optimal heat. You can use this cookware on the stove top, in the oven or under the broiler. It is safe to use in the oven up to 500°F and store in the freezer.
Suitable for induction stove tops, cook top or oven use, you can easily transfer the cookware from the stove top onto the table with the stay-cool insulated stainless handle. The handle also offers comfortable grip and ultimate control with unique thumb rest. Coming with a tight-fitting stainless lids, you are able to seal in moisture and nutrients.
As this elegantly proportioned dutch oven is designed for a wonderful size for delicious on-pot meals, the Cuisinart FCT3545-24 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Dutch Oven will help you in easy serving. Feel safe to purchase this product as the manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty on this product.
9. Bruntmor Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven Casserole
What we like
- Perform even heat retention and distribution
- Chemical safe
- Preserve food moisture
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for large family capacity
Key features:
- Dimension: 10” x 5” x 5”
- Weight: 16.53 pounds
- Material: enameled solid cast-iron
- Capacity: 6.5 Quart
- Feature self-basting condensation ridges on the lid
- Suitable for hand-washing
Standing out with porcelain-enamel live green exterior color, the Bruntmor Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is built with enameled cast iron coating for superior and even heat retention and distribution. Besides being an excellent kitchen decor, the porcelain enamel cooking surface is PFOA- and PTFE-free. You do not need to worry about your food will react to the surface.
The self basting condensation ridges incorporated into the lid help to collect and direct vapors onto food for moist and savory dishes. The lid is also secured with a stainless steel knob to keep the heat in. Cleaning is a breeze as you just need to hand wash with gentle soap and sponge. Mind that you need to towel dry the product and occasionally rub it with oil.
10. Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron
What we like
- Feature non-reactive interior
- Resistant to stains, odors and acids
- Perform superior heat distribution and retention
- Oven safe
- Dishwasher safe
What we don’t like
- No disadvantage is yet to be found
Key features:
- Dimension: 14.1” x 11.6” x 7”
- Weight: 15.2 pounds
- Material: enameled cast iron
- Works well with ceramic, electric, gas, induction hobs, grill and oven
- Suitable for washing in the dishwasher
Even the professional chefs are into this Dutch oven! We would certainly go all for the best overall Dutch Oven -the Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Round French Dutch Oven. Featuring long-lasting exterior enamel, you can be well-assured that this cookware resists chipping and cracking. Besides, it also enhances the efficiency of the product and also give better color.
Constructed from durable cast iron, this cookware is perfectly fitted slow cooking and high-temperature searing. You can stir-fry, slow-cook a casserole, sear a steak or bake a cake on any heating surface such as induction, oven and grill. The product is designed to withstand a heat up to 500 degree Fahrenheit. It is designed specifically to enhance the slow-cooking process by evenly distributing heat and locking in the optimal amount of moisture.
One of the notable things about this product is that it comes with 45% more larger handles. You will gain a firm grip, even you are wearing the oven mitts. In addition, a larger composite knob is attached on the lid to withstand temperatures up to 500-degree Fahrenheit.
Provided that you can clean this cookware with a dishwasher, you can certainly opt for the Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron as the manufacturer guarantees that the enamel does not crack or chip off with ease.
How To Choose The Best Dutch Oven
Dutch ovens are thick walled pots which are suitable for cooking on open fires in camps besides barbequing, stewing and braising.If you are looking to purchase a dutch oven, you should consider the following factors to pick the best one according to your needs.
Material of the dutch oven – The best material for a dutch oven for home use is cast iron. Cast iron iron preserves heat very well and evenly distributes the heat energy. Thus, cast iron dutch ovens are ideal for stewing and braising. Both plain and enameled cast iron dutch ovens are available in the market. Plain cast iron dutch oven needs to be seasoned before it can be used to cook acidic things such as tomatoes, vinegar, etc. This is because plain cast iron reacts with acidic ingredients. Plain cast iron dutch ovens are heavy and last for a lifetime. On the other hand, enameled cast iron dutch ovens can be used even with acidic ingredients without the need for seasoning. They are also very heavy. However, enameled cast iron dutch ovens are expensive. The enamel can also crack.
If the dutch oven is to be primarily used for campfires, then aluminum is the preferred material. Aluminum dutch ovens have two layers of anodised aluminum because aluminum is thinner than cast iron. Anodised aluminum layers enhance the durability of the dutch oven. One disadvantage of the aluminum dutch oven is that it develops hot and cold spots during slow cooking because aluminum heats up very quickly.
SIze of the dutch oven – The perfect size of a dutch oven for a family is 5 quarts. This is the standard size for families. Dutch ovens of 7 quarts and even 1 quart are available in the market. Large sized dutch ovens of 8-12 quarts are designed to cook for a large number of people. They are also much more expensive. You need to choose a dutch oven in accordance with the amount of food you need to cook.
Lid of the dutch oven – The lid of a dutch oven should be tight-fitting and completely seals the oven. Tight-fitting lid prevents moisture and heat from escaping into the air. You need to make sure that the lid of the dutch oven you intend to buy perfectly covers the oven without leaving gaps. Dutch oven models with lids made of tempered glass are suitable because they allow you to see the interior of the pot without the need to lift the lid. The lid must have a handle or a heat-resistant knob.
The modern dutch ovens also come with special lids. For example, many dutch ovens for outdoor use have flanged lids. Flanged lids have a deep surface which can be used to place coals for roasting. Another example is lid ridge found in many models of indoor dutch ovens. Lid ridge is a groove around the lid which sends back the vapours back into the food to increase moisture.
Handle of the dutch oven – The handle should be heat resistant so that you can easily transfer the dutch oven from stovetop to oven or from campfire to other place. Dutch ovens are available with both rigid and erect handles as well as handles with 45 degree movement. Erect and rigid handle is a better option because it provides a good grip.
Dutch Oven Clean and Caring Instructions
As it is equally important to clean and maintain the Dutch oven for a long-lasting use, you ought to learn these effective tips in clensinf and caring for your Dutch Oven.
- Detergent should not be used to clean dutch ovens because detergent has a harmful effect on the oil used in making the Dutch oven.
- Soak the dutch oven in hot water for 2 hours and then wipe it with a mixture of one part vinegar and four parts water. Do not use metal scrub.
- To clean the outside portion of the dutch oven, you can make a paste of baking soda and water. Use the paste to scrub the outside with a Scotch-brite pad.
- Wipe the dutch oven with a paper towel or kitchen towel after cleaning to avoid rusting.
Dutch Oven Frequently Asked Questions
As a potential buyers and users of a Dutch oven, we understand you may have some doubts to be clarified. So here are a short list of frequently asked questions by our previous readers.
<strong>How much coal do I need to cook food in a dutch oven?</strong>
It depends on the diameter of your Dutch Oven. Always add a lower number of coal underneath the oven from the top one. If the diameter is 15, then add 12 coals underneath ad 18 on top.
<strong>Which diameter or size of a Dutch oven is perfect for basic use?</strong>
There are plenty of sizes to choose from but you can go with 12 inches as it is the standard size. You can get the best cooking experience with the ideal size and the large pot space.
<strong>Is a Dutch oven essential?</strong>
No, the Dutch oven isn’t essential. You can cook every dish in a regular kitchen but the reason behind its higher popularity is in taste. The use of coal and longtime cooking help getting the best taste out of meat and other food.
<strong>Is Dutch oven reliable for healthy cooking?</strong>
Yes, Dutch Oven can help you cook tasty and healthy food at ease. cooking with coal helps preserving all the nutrition and taste. Just that you have to spend extra time on cooking.
Conclusion
All the products listed above come from the top brands and they were selected based on the customer reviews across different e-commerce platforms. As we are equally concerned about our readers’ quality lives, we sincerely hope that you are confident to make the first step to purchase any best reviewed Dutch oven above to make a positive change in your kitchen experience.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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Madison
Thanks for stopping at my blog. I'm Madison, a mother and a wife who loves to cook. I've also worked as a professional sous chef at Florida Grill. The concept of this blog is to share the best kitchen and cooking accessories without any bias. I wish my reviews and guide will help you to make a good decision in picking your ideal kitchenware.