Dutch ovens are a versatile kitchen essential. Perfect to use in their most basic form (a large, cast iron pot) as well as an excellent slow cooker thanks to their superior heat-retaining qualities, Dutch ovens are the vessel of choice when it comes to cooking hearty stews, soups and puddings. Be it a beef Massaman curry or fragrant chicken soup that’s up for serving, having the right equipment makes for light work and better results.
Whether you’re looking to hone your hosting prowess or simply upgrade your collection of pots and pans, investing in a quality Dutch oven is the right move for any home chef.
Here are four of the best Dutch ovens to buy in 2024.
2024’s TOP DUTCH OVENS
- Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Round Casserole, $610, Myer (here’s why)
- GreenPan Featherweights Casserole 28cm/6.6L, $149, Myer (here’s why)
- Staub cast iron Oval Cocotte, $499, Myer (here’s why)
The best Dutch ovens to buy in 2024
01
Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Round Casserole
from $610, Myer
Best for: Lovers of bold colours and classic brands
Le Creuset remains a go-to brand for a reason. Chic colours, timeless design and quality products make these sturdy Dutch ovens the envy of all others. The signature cast iron casserole dish is made from stain-resistant enamel, and the cast-iron body ensures it is resistant to routine wear and tear, despite being dishwasher safe (although handwashing is recommended). Versatility is the key to the success of this Dutch oven; it’s a workhorse fit for the oven, hob, induction, or even under the grill.
Sizes: 24cm (4.2L), 28cm (6.7L)
Colours: Red (pictured), satin black, blue, meringue, flint, azure blue, cherry red, Eden green, volcanic
Material: Cast iron
Key features:
- Oven safe up to 260°C
- Dishwasher safe
- Freezer safe
- Smart seal lid for heat retention
- Non-stick enamel for easy cleaning
02
GreenPan Featherweights Casserole
from $149 (usually $299), Myer
Best for: The time-poor chef
Dutch ovens are perfect for hearty winter meals, such as thick stews and creamy soups. But a heavy Dutch oven filled with a lot of food… well, that has the potential for small kitchen disasters. GreenPan’s new Featherweights collection has found a route around that danger by making their ovens using lightweight cast aluminium, meaning these pots are up to 50 per cent lighter than similar brands. A lighter body also means that these ovens heat three times faster, so you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
Size: 28cm (6.6L)
Colours: Smoky blue (pictured), artichoke, taupe, dark blue and scarlet red
Materials: Cast aluminium with ceramic non-sick coating
Key features:
- Oven safe up to 250°C
- Dishwasher safe
- Freezer safe
- Smart seal lid for heat retention
- Non-stick enamel for easy cleaning
03
Staub Oval Cocotte Cast Iron Dutch oven
from $499 (usually $999), Myer
Best for: The practical home cook
The cast iron Oval Cocotte Dutch oven by Staub is a masterclass in user-centred design. Large, flat handles make the Dutch oven well-balanced and easier to pick up, so removing this dish from the oven or the stove is simple, safe and fuss-free. The tight-fitting, self-basting lid allows superior heat retention, and the cast iron enamel ensures an even heat distribution for a perfectly cooked meal every time.
Sizes: 31cm (5.5L)
Colours: Black
Materials: Enamel cast iron
Key features:
- Oven safe up to 260°C
- Dishwasher safe
- Freezer safe
- Smart seal lid for heat retention
- Non-stick enamel for easy cleaning
04
3-piece Mini Cocotte Dutch oven set with matte finish
from $89.95, Chausseur
Best for: Dinner party hosts with the most
Elevate your kitchen with the Chasseur Celebration 3-Piece Cocotte Set in Matte – commemorating a century of culinary excellence by Chasseur. Crafted as a limited-edition set, the stoneware features the three colours of the French Flag; blue, white and red. These chic little Dutch ovens translate perfectly from kitchen to table; you won’t need to worry about presentation when your pots look this good.
Size: 10cm (300ml)
Colours: Blue, white and red
Key features:
- Ovenproof up to 220°C
- Dishwasher safe
- Freezer safe
- Microwave safe
What is so special about Dutch ovens?
Dutch ovens are a kitchen essential because of their versatility. Their cast iron build allows them to heat up quickly, and their lids are often specifically designed to have a vacuum-seal effect to efficiently trap and retain heat. Most Dutch ovens can be used on the stovetop as well as inside the oven, making them perfect for one-pot cooking for an easier clean up.
What are the two types Dutch ovens?
Dutch ovens tend to come in either a round or oval shape. The shapes are interchangeable and are mostly a style choice, but oval Dutch ovens are better suited to cooking larger cuts like whole roast chickens, whereas round Dutch ovens may be better suited to soups and stews.
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