[vc_row equal_height=”yes”][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_facebook type=”button_count”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_tweetmeme share_via=”YinzBuy”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″ css=”.vc_custom_1606731333432{margin-top: -5px !important;}”][vc_pinterest][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]A Dutch oven is one of those kitchen gadgets that every good cook covets. Yet, as with many must-haves, these prized cooking tools come at a hefty price. What does it cost to add this versatile tool to your repertoire?
The prices of Dutch ovens vary as widely as the materials from which they are made. An off-brand cast iron Dutch oven may cost as little as $29, while the most expensive cast iron Dutch oven sells at just over $300.
Dutch ovens, or at least their ancestors, have been around for hundreds of years. They are one of the most popular cooking pans for the serious chef. Read on to learn why.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
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What Is Special About a Dutch Oven?
The Dutch oven’s special power is in its material and construction. The most iconic Dutch oven is made of solid cast iron, although some modern versions are made from cast aluminum or ceramic. The conductivity of these materials is unsurpassed.
The Dutch oven holds and transfers heat evenly, so you can be sure that your food is thoroughly cooked. Additionally, the materials from which Dutch ovens are made do not absorb odors from food. Enameled versions also help to keep food from sticking, so you aren’t as likely to burn your food.
The all-metal construction of Dutch ovens makes them an incredibly versatile tool in the kitchen. They can be used:
- On the stovetop
- In the oven
- Over a campfire
There is no danger of shattering them over an open flame, as would be the case with glass dishes. You can brown food on the range top and transfer it to the oven for finishing. Then, you can serve from the same dish![/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
What Is a Dutch Oven Best Used For?
Dutch ovens excel at all things culinary. There isn’t much that can’t be cooked in a Dutch oven. These heavyweight champions of kitchen tools are best for:
- Stewing
- Browning
- Roasting
- Baking
- Broiling
- Frying
They are especially handy for making one-dish meals. Their size allows them to accommodate a greater volume of food at once, making them a favorite when cooking for a crowd.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
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What Can Be Cooked in a Dutch Oven?
You can cook in a Dutch oven anything you would cook in a stockpot or frying pan. Even dishes typically cooked in specialized baking pans can be cooked in a Dutch oven.
Bread
The unparalleled heat conduction of Dutch ovens makes them ideal for baking homemade bread. Of course, you’ll have to be okay with eating a round loaf of bread. But that will hardly matter once you see the beautifully crisp, brown crust that a Dutch oven can produce.
Soups and Stews
Since a Dutch oven can be used in the same way as a stockpot, they are an appropriate choice for making soups and stews. The evenly transferred heat ensures that there’ll be no cold spots or undercooked meat.
Dutch ovens are usually large enough to hold a few quarts of liquid, so you can make a great batch of soup for freezing. Stews do well in Dutch ovens as well since the tight-fitting lid will hold the steam in to tenderize the meat. This also prevents the stew from losing too much liquid through evaporation so that you don’t end up with a too-dry stew.
Fried Chicken
Deep frying is a Dutch oven’s game! Their depth allows for several inches of oil to be added for complete immersion of the food. Heating up will take quite a bit longer than for other frying pans because the oven’s walls and bottom are so thick. However, the oil stays hotter and at a much more even temperature than a normal pan due to better heat retention. If you’ve got the time, it is well worth it.
Pizza Dough
Much like bread dough, pizza crust turns out great when cooked in a Dutch oven. Cast iron Dutch ovens are especially unbeatable for cooking any kind of bread. The thick bottom of the oven reduces the risk of burning the underside of the crust before the inside is done.
Desserts
Somewhat surprisingly, desserts are pretty compatible with Dutch ovens. A variety of single layer desserts can be cooked in a Dutch oven:
- Cakes
- Puddings
- Cobblers
- Cinnamon rolls
- Brownies
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How Much Should I Spend on a Dutch Oven?
How much your Dutch oven costs will depend on the brand and size you choose. Since they are all made from the same basic materials, there is no real reason to spend tons of money on this pot. Here are some of the most popular name brands and their prices for comparison:
| Brand | Small Size | Large Size |
| Lodge Enamel | 4.5 quart – $60 | 7 quart – $109 |
| Martha Stewart | 2 quart – $43 | 8 quart – $160 |
| Cuisinart | 3 quart – $70 | 7 quart – $130 |
| Le Creuset | 3.5 quart – $180 | 7.5 quart – $400 |
Since the quality of the food cooked in these ovens remains about the same across all four brands, it may be more practical to buy a less expensive brand and take especially good care of it. However, the higher priced options may be worth it depending on your specific preferences. We’ll explore a bit more of what makes each of these major brands unique.
Lodge Enamel
Lodge is considered the budget Dutch oven. Made from enameled cast iron, it is an oven designed for functionality, not frills. While there is certainly nothing wrong with the looks of a Lodge oven, in all honesty, it can’t compare to the higher-end brands aesthetically.
In performance, however, this oven can most definitely hold its own! Its heat conductivity and retention are not at all inferior to top-of-the-line brands. You have the choice of sizes, ranging from one and one-half quarts to seven and one-half quarts, so capacity is not a problem.
It is dishwasher safe for easy clean-up, and safe for use up to 500 degrees F. The biggest downside to them is that the enamel is prone to chipping.
Martha Stewart
The Martha Stewart Dutch oven is still a great Dutch oven. What differentiates it from Lodge are some smaller details. It’s backed by the endorsement of a celebrity chef. This oven is available in more interesting color choices which includes pleasing ombre color schemes. Finally, it features wider handles and size embossment for easy reference.
Their price is slightly higher than the Lodge oven, but still well below the highest brand’s price range. Martha’s Dutch ovens come in only three sizes:
- Two quart
- Six quart
- Eight quart
The enameled cast iron pot has a ridged lid that locks in moisture and redirects any condensation back into the cookware. This means that the food cooked in this Dutch oven will be anything but dry.
Chipping of the enamel is a repeat offender here as well, and the oven is not dishwasher safe. Just like Lodge, it’s safe for use on a stovetop or in an oven heated up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cuisinart
You’ll notice the price starts to climb with the Cuisinart brand. This is the first “chef” grade Dutch oven, whereas the others are more geared to a casual home chef. Cuisinarts may be touted as superior ovens, but they aren’t as good as the less expensive brands in some regards. The Cuisinart Dutch ovens are known for allowing food to stick to the pan’s surface, especially when simmering foods.
They require frequent stirring during cook time to avoid burned food. Enamel chipping is also still a problem. While they are dishwasher safe, this washing method is not recommended if you want your enamel to retain its quality. Additionally, the Cuisinart model is only safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While still oven safe, this limits the temperatures at which you can cook.
Le Creuset
The French-made Le Creuset Dutch oven is considered top-of-the-line. This is marketed as the best of the best in Dutch ovens. The price may cause you to perform a double take as this one piece of cookware costs more than $300. While the price tag is hefty, there are reasons that set it apart.
This Dutch (or is it French?) oven is made of enameled cast iron just like all the others. It’s available in a wide range of beautiful colors, worthy of display on their own. Safe for use with metal utensils, it has superior enamel chipping resistance to other brands. Le Creuset is dishwasher safe for easy cleanup, and oven safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, matching the other best in class options. Finally, while still highly effective, their cast iron is one of the lightest weight on the market. This makes the pot easier to handle.
While the price tag is certainly significant and not for everyone, the Le Creuset is likely to last longer. If it’s a well-used tool in your home, the cost may be worth it.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
How Much Will a Dutch Oven Cost?
Depending on brand and size, a Dutch oven can cost you several hundred dollars. Or, you can go for function instead of fashion and spend about the same amount you would spend on any other quality kitchenware. Either way, you are getting a great product that will stand the test of time in your kitchen.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, also check out our in depth look at a pumpkin Dutch oven. It’s not only a functional kitchen tool, but also a beautiful piece of décor!
Otherwise, explore our in-depth guide on the essential kitchen tools you need! This comprehensive article features suggestions for a first time kitchen and the aspiring home chef as well.
