Why Does A Quality Dutch Oven Cost So Much?

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

If you've ever shopped for a Dutch oven, the price tag may have surprised you. What could make a simple piece of cookware so expensive? Well, it turns out that quality Dutch ovens cost that much for a reason.

The materials they're usually made from are pricey — and Dutch ovens need a lot of it, as top-notch models typically weigh anywhere from 6 to 17 pounds. They're usually constructed from heavy cast iron, which expertly retains and distributes heat compared to other materials, like steel, that are sometimes used to bring down costs.

The enamel coating, a layer of melted glass that makes the interior nonstick and protects the raw iron, can be expensive too. (Raw cast iron cookware is more affordable, but enamel protects the base of the pot from rust and saves you the maintenance of seasoning it.) According to Serious Eats, it's often impossible to know the exact composition of enamel coating; However, 'in [Serious Eats'] tests for durability, the legacy brands held up to chips, scuffs, and scratches better — and for longer — than cheaper models.'

Where and how the Dutch oven is made also affects price. More affordable picks are often made in off-site warehouses and factories, while expensive brands like Le Creuset, for example, are cast in single-use molds and artisan-made by hand. The warranty also plays a role; better brands offer lifetime warranties, while cheaper brands are more likely to have limited warranties that make it harder for customers to cash in.

Some think the trendy baking dish is overrated, especially if you own a slow cooker or pressure cooker. But a Dutch oven is a timeless workhorse that can roast, braise, sear, fry, slow-cook, and more on the stove or in the oven, which means Dutch oven recipes run the gamut from soup to short ribs to rye bread. It's also a game-changer for cooking large cuts of meat, since the tight-fitting lid retains heat and steam, returning moisture to the pot.

Not only can Dutch ovens do it all, but they can also last for generations if they're optimally made. Pay more upfront, and you'll be set for years. Brands like Staub and Le Creuset are regarded as heirlooms because of their endurance and appearance. They also come in so many colors that they double as decorative pieces, so it's no wonder folks want to collect and display them forever.

Staub's Cocotte and Le Creuset's Enameled Dutch Oven are regarded as the gold standard, having won product tests at Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, Serious Eats, and Food52. In this case, you often get what you pay for, but some mid-range brands still deliver for less, like Lodge, Kana, or Cuisinart. You may also find this coveted kitchen item at a thrift store at a massive discount. Just look for cracks or scratches on all sides; damaged enamel could compromise the cast iron beneath.