Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, using the best enameled cast iron cookware will make braising, sautéing, and baking a breeze. These pieces are sturdy, classic, easy to use, and even look nice enough to go right from the oven or stove to the table. In my years of experience, I’ve found that I adore using enameled cast iron pots and pans from Le Creuset and Staub, but there are other amazing options at lower price points, too.
To create my list of the best enameled cast iron cookware, I made sure to include my favorite options in my kitchen, along with top-tier picks from other great brands like Cuisinart and Lodge. Ideally, all of these options will last for decades, and I took some key factors into account when choosing the best, like weight, functionality, and maintenance.
Ahead, you can check out my recommendations for the best enameled cast iron cookware.
My Top Picks:
What’s In My Kitchen:
- My Favorite Enameled Grill Pan: Le Creuset Cast Iron Grill Pan – $182.28 at Amazon
- My Favorite Enameled Dutch Oven: Le Creuset 7/25 Quart Round Dutch Oven – $460 at Wayfair
- My Favorite Enameled Sauté Pan: Le Creuset Deep Sauté Pan – $299.95 at Williams Sonoma
Affordable Alternatives:
4. Best Affordable Enameled Grill Pan: Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Square Grill Pan – $39.95 at Amazon
5. Best Affordable Enameled Dutch Oven: Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven – $79.90 at Amazon
6. Best Affordable Enameled Cast Iron Skillet: Crock-Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Skillet – $52 at Amazon
Reviews of The Best Enameled Cast Iron Cookware of 2024
What’s In My Kitchen
1. My Favorite Enameled Grill Pan Le Creuset Cast Iron Grill Pan
I’ve had this grill pan for about 4 years. Unlike a lot of enameled cast iron pans, the interior is black and will take on a patina the more you cook with it. (A patina is a layer that builds on your cast iron cookware with use! Eventually, it should result in an easy-release surface.)
I love this Le Creuset pan because I can achieve beautiful char marks on my food without having to fire up my outdoor grill. It also elevates pieces of protein like steaks, chicken, and burgers, rendering some of the fat into the grooves of the pan. It’s perfect for making meals and sides like my Grilled Portobello Mushrooms.
The Specs:
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Dimensions: 13.9 x 15.1 x 2.6 inches
- Handles: One long and one helper loop handles
The Pros:
- Doesn’t require seasoning
- Comes in many colors
- Dishwasher-safe (but handwashing recommended)
- Resists dulling, staining, chipping, and cracking
- Oven-safe up to 500ºF
- Lifetime warranty
The Cons:
- Heavy
- Expensive
What Others Are Saying:
The Le Creuset Cast Iron Grill Pan has a 4.6 Amazon rating from more than 1,800 shoppers. It was also named the best overall grill pan by Epicurious and The Spruce Eats, and best overall runner-up grill pan by People.
Buy the Le Creuset Cast Iron Grill Pan:
2. My Favorite Enameled Dutch Oven: Le Creuset 7.25-Quart Round Dutch Oven
If you want just one piece of enameled cast iron, most people think of a Dutch oven. I think everyone should have one in their kitchen — they’re so versatile and can be used for everything from stews to soups, plus they’re excellent at retaining heat. This round Dutch oven from Le Creuset is definitely one of the best, too. I’ve owned mine for about six years and love it for making recipes like my No-Knead Bread.
I own it in the 7.25-quart option and found that it’s the perfect size for cooking pasta, soups, and stews. Just note that it’s on the heavier side at around 12 pounds with the lid on, so you’ll definitely want to be careful when moving it from the stovetop to the oven.
The Specs:
- Weight: 12 pounds, 13 ounces with lid
- Dimensions: 14.84 x 7.24 inches
- Handles: Large ergonomic loop handles
The Pros:
- Tight-fitting lid
- Stainless-steel knob safe at any oven temperature
- Comes in many colors
- Great size
- Lifetime warranty
The Cons:
- Heavy
- Expensive
What Others Are Saying:
The Le Creuset Dutch Oven has a 4.8 Amazon rating out of more than 6,500 reviews. It was named the best classic Dutch oven by The Strategist, the best high-end Dutch oven by The Spruce Eats, and the best splurge Dutch oven by CNN Underscored. The 5.5-quart option was also featured as the best upgrade pick for Dutch ovens by Wirecutter.
Buy the Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven:
3. My Favorite Enameled Sauté Pan: Le Creuset Deep Sauté Pan
I highly recommend the Le Creuset Deep Sauté Pan. I cook EVERYTHING in it! I saute, sear, braise, and simmer in it, especially because it’s perfect for making a braise or stew, then transferring it to the oven to slowly cook. I’m a big fan of making sides like my yummy, hearty Braised Kale in it, thanks to its 4.25-quart capacity. This means that the pan is shallow enough for searing, but you can still pack major punches of flavor by slow cooking in it, too.
As an added bonus, I love that the knob on the lid is oven-safe up to 500ºF. I’ve found that some older enameled cast iron cookware pieces have lower temperature ranges, and you can accidentally burn yourself if you’re not careful!
The Specs:
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Capacity: 4.25 quarts
- Dimensions: 12-inch diameter, 3.5 inches high
- Handles: 1 loop handle
The Pros:
- Lid stabilizers keep it from rocking
- Stainless-steel knob safe up to 500°F (260°C)
- Comes in many colors
- Dishwasher-safe (but handwashing recommended)
- Lifetime warranty
The Cons:
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Some reviewers found that it has certain hotspots when cooking
Buy the Le Creuset Deep Sauté Pan:
Affordable Alternatives
4. Best Affordable Enameled Grill Pan: Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Square Grill Pan
If you’re interested in snagging one of the best enameled cast iron pans without the lofty price tag, I recommend this pick from Cuisinart. It has a similar design to my favorite from Le Creuset, though there are a few key differences: It’s a bit smaller at 9.25 inches, has one pour spout instead of two, and doesn’t have a helper handle, though the long handle is more than enough to help you get a good grip.
Other callouts include its dishwasher-safe material and even heat distribution. It’s even a little bit lighter than the Le Creuset option, which may be better for some home chefs.
Specs:
- Weight: 6.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 10.24 x 16 x 2.7 inches
- Handles: One long loop handle
The Pros:
- Affordable
- Dishwasher-safe (but handwashing recommended)
- Strong, durable finish
- Lifetime warranty
The Cons:
- Heavy
- Only comes in two colors
- No helper handle
What Others Are Saying
The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Square Grill Pan has a 4.6 rating on Amazon from more than 6,400 shoppers.
Buy the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Square Grill Pan:
5. Best Affordable Enameled Dutch Oven: Lodge Enameled 6-Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven
Lodge is perhaps best known for its cast iron cookware, so it’s no surprise that the brand’s enameled cast iron Dutch oven landed on my list. For less than $100, the 6-quart capacity is great for preparing delicious meals like my Beef Bourguignon, although it’s a little smaller than my Le Creuset Dutch oven. It boasts a beautiful porcelain enamel exterior that’s available in a ton of different colors, too, ranging from bright red to neutral white.
It’s oven-safe up to 500°F and, like any top-tier enameled cast iron cookware, boasts awesome heat retention and a nonstick surface.
The Specs:
- Weight: 14.9 pounds
- Capacity: 6 quarts
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 11 inches
- Handles: Large ergonomic loop handles
The Pros:
- Wide cooking area
- Handles are comfortable
- Tight-fitting lid
- Comes in many colors
- Lifetime warranty
- Dishwasher safe (but handwashing recommended)
The Cons:
- Heavy
- Requires regular seasoning
What Others Are Saying
The Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven was dubbed the best Dutch oven by Wirecutter, The Spruce Eats, and CNN Underscored. It also has a 4.7 Amazon rating from more than 34,800 shoppers.
Buy the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven:
6. Best Affordable Enameled Cast Iron Skillet: Crock-Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
It’s not easy to find a dupe of the Le Creuset Deep Sauté Pan, but this enameled cast iron skillet from Crock-Pot comes pretty close. You can use it to stir fry, sear, roast, and sauté, and it even works on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops. It’s on the heavier side at 8.5 pounds, but it’s also oven-safe up to 500°F, making it a great option for cooking my Sautéed Brussel Sprouts with Bacon!
The Specs:
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Capacity: 2 quarts
- Dimensions: 12-inch diameter
- Handles: One long, one wide helper handle
The Pros:
- Large helper handle
- Two pour spouts
- High sides
The Cons:
- Heavy
- Some reviewers note that the bottom gets sticky
- Hand wash only
What Others Are Saying:
The Crock-Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Skillet was dubbed the best value enameled cast iron skillet by Food & Wine and the best budget enameled cast iron skillet by Serious Eats. On Amazon, it also received a 4.4-star rating from more than 1,500 buyers.
Buy the Crock-Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Skillet:
Other Enameled Cast Iron Cookware I Considered
Basque Enameled Cast Iron 7-Piece Set
This starter set comes with two Dutch ovens, a skillet, and a saucepan, all of which have conveniences like pour spouts and generous helper handles. You can’t beat the price, but I’ve never used this brand before and it has limited reviews, so I can’t speak to the quality or longevity. The Basque Enameled Cast Iron 7-Piece Set is available at Amazon for $184.99.
KitchenAid Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
This is a good mid-range option if you’re looking for a reliable skillet, and I love the pistachio color it comes in. I’m not in love with the handle, though, which is wide, flat, and doesn’t have a loop. The KitchenAid Enameled Cast Iron Skillet is available at Amazon for $129.99.
Staub Round 5.5-Quart Dutch Oven
The Staub Round Dutch Oven is pretty legendary. It’s a close competitor to my pick from Le Creuset, but this one is a tad smaller. Like Le Creuset, Staub’s products are on the pricey side but you’re paying for quality and construction. The Staub Round Dutch Oven is available at Williams-Sonoma from $400.
Staub Traditional Deep Skillet
Like the brand’s Dutch oven, this deep skillet will serve you well. I personally think the helper handle on the affordable Crock-Pot Skillet seems more comfortable to use, plus, I just like the general look of my picks from Le Creuset and Crock-Pot more. The Staub Traditional Deep Skillet is available at Amazon for $178.38.
Staub Square Grill Pan
In most ways, this is comparable to my favorite Le Creuset grill pan, it’s but a little cheaper. But while mine has two pour spouts, this has none, which makes it a bit less convenient. The Staub Square Grill Pan is available at Williams-Sonoma for $149.95.
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Enameled Cast Iron Braiser
I’d love this as a cheaper dupe for my Le Creuset Deep Sauté Pan, but it doesn’t have the convenient long handle. Some reviewers also mention the finish chips easily. The Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Enameled Cast Iron Braiser is available at Target for $59.99.
Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Covered Casserole
This casserole dish can sit in for any of the more higher-end Dutch ovens and is very well-reviewed, with a 4.6-star rating from more than 6,400 Amazon shoppers. My only hesitation about it is that it’s pricier than the Lodge Dutch oven, and their products are top notch. The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Covered Casserole is available at Amazon for $99.95.
Why You Can Trust Us
Hi! I’m Jessica Gavin. I am a culinary school graduate and also hold certifications in Culinary Science and Food Science. I love learning the best and healthiest ways to cook for my family and sharing what I’ve learned with you. In addition to my blog, I’m also the author of Easy Culinary Science For Better Cooking, which really let me indulge my passion for teaching you how to gain confidence in the kitchen.
To create this guide to the best enameled cast iron cookware, I first looked to my trusted Le Creuset pieces that I’ve been using for years. Since those can be expensive, I sought out good quality alternatives to my favorites that will work for any budget. I considered important factors like weight, max cooking temperature, and functionality.
What to Know About Enameled Cast Iron Cookware
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Enameled Cast Iron Cookware
Unlike some other cookware categories, the best enameled cast iron pots and pans tend to have more in common with each other than differences. But there are a few basic criteria you should focus on to ensure you make the best selection.
Max Temperature
Most enameled cast iron cookware can withstand heat up to 500°F (260°C). Some Dutch ovens can be heated as far as 900°F (482°C) if you don’t put the lid in the oven. If you have a specific recipe in mind, make sure that if you plan to bake with the cover on, the knob has a heat rating of around 500 degrees, too. Older models have knobs with lower temperature ranges. Some higher-end enameled cast iron companies may sell knobs individually, so you can switch up to one with a higher heat rating if you need to.
Weight
Enameled cast iron is known for retaining heat well, and a thicker pan may give you better results. It’s also pretty heavy, which can make storing it tricky. Also, you have to be able to lift and carry it. If your Dutch oven is too heavy for you to carry when it’s empty, just imagine how heavy it will be when full of Grandma’s Ginger Beef Stew! Take your kitchen’s storage options and your physical abilities into consideration when shopping for an enameled cast iron pot.
Range of Colors
Unlike traditional cast iron, which only comes in black, enameled cast iron comes in a range of fun and stylish colors. Le Creuset claims they have the widest range of colors on the market. Other brands also offer colorways that will work in any kitchen. Some items can also be found with either the traditional light-colored interior or a matte black interior coating.
Functional Handles
Helper handles can make all the difference, especially with heavier items. Just traditional cast iron pans, you’ll need an oven mitt or pot holder to hold enameled cast iron pan handles. You may be able to purchase touch-safe silicone handle covers to make things easier.
What is the Best Brand of Enameled Cast Iron Cookware?
Le Creuset and Staub are the two most well-known legacy brands. I’ve always used Le Creuset and my pieces are still going strong after several years. Staub also has a devoted following, and you may prefer them if you like the black interior cooking surface. These pieces are cut from quality iron, have thick bottoms, and are handmade.
These two brands tend to be the most expensive because they’re cut from quality iron, and because of the pot’s thickness, they require more of it. The fact that they’re handmade also drives the price up.
Is Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Safe?
The best enameled cast iron will be safe and non-toxic. High-quality items from respected brands will be coated in enamel that is food-safe. Both Le Creuset and Staub are known for being nontoxic. Concerns about high levels of cadmium or lead in the enamel on some cookware is usually about vintage enamel cookware from the 1970s. The FDA monitors imports of glazed ceramic cookware and maintains a list of brands known to have unsafe levels of lead or cadmium.
None of the brands I recommend are on it.
Is Enameled Cast Iron Nonstick?
You might assume that the best enameled cast iron skillet would be nonstick, but that’s actually not true. The coating means you don’t have to season it the way you do regular cast iron, so it’s easier to care for. But since that seasoning isn’t building up, the surface isn’t nonstick. Make sure to coat your pan with good-quality fat or oil each time you cook so your food doesn’t stick to the surface. Even so, its nonstick quality isn’t always as strong as that of a well-seasoned regular cast iron.
How to Clean Enameled Cast Iron
Enameled cast iron has a porcelain coating that prevents rust and makes for easier cleaning. It’s very important to let your pan cool down to room temperature before using any cool water on it, to prevent thermal shock which can crack the enamel.
Wash with a soft cloth, brush, or sponge and a mild soap, baking soda, or cleaners like Bar Keepers Friend and Bon Ami. Dry by hand after washing, mostly to avoid any mishaps with an air-drying pan getting knocked or bumped, which can chip the surface.
Even if your manual says it’s dishwasher-friendly, it likely still recommends that you hand wash. To keep your finish vibrant and beautiful, hand wash it whenever possible.
Does Enameled Cast Iron Work on Induction?
Yes. Both regular cast iron and enameled cast iron are compatible with induction cooktops, but out of the two, enameled is the safest.
The Best Recipes to Use Your Enameled Cast Iron Cookware
Once you start cooking with enameled cast iron, you’ll find you can use it for practically any recipe. But here are a few I recommend:
Prices were accurate at the time of publication.
Lu says
Hi Jessica. I have a 6qt enameled cast iron dutch oven that I have used fir about 10 yrs. I cook everything I can in it and love it dearly. Over the past year, it has been harder to clean, stains that won’t wash away. I have tried baking soda, Bon Ami to remove them. Now everything burns in it, even sautéing veggies.
Is there any hope for this? Suggestions?
thank you so much!
Jessica Gavin says
Have you tried heating the pot with some hot water, then scrapping with the heat stable or wooden spoon to remove the hard to remove areas on the bottom of the pan? If you have had the pan for a while, the coating may have finally worn off. May be time for a new one, but try the hot water trick first. You got great life out of that pan for 10 years!