Best Dutch Oven for Every Home Chef: Staub, Lodge, Le Creuset, and More

I’ll be honest, there aren’t many scientific tests you can perform on a Dutch oven, but they do vary quite a bit in terms of overall quality, durability, aesthetics, and design. What it really comes down to is finding a pot that works for you in terms of size, shape, material, and cost.

Rather than testing them like we would with blenders and toasters, I hauled in more than 10 Dutch ovens and used them for a few months to cook a variety of recipes. The goal was to make sure that each pan was made of quality materials and designed for ease of use in the kitchen. I paid attention to whether a single Dutch oven showed any sudden signs of wear and tear: peeling paint, loose knobs, for example. I also looked for design flaws like ill-fitting lids, awkward handles, or uneven bottoms.

I also took aesthetics into consideration when considering and ultimately recommending these Dutch ovens, as they make excellent serving dishes once the recipe is done. Remember, you’ll likely have them for many years to come.

Read more: Best Instant Pots