An enameled cast iron Dutch oven is one of the most versatile pieces of cookware you can own. It braises, stews, roasts, simmers soups, bakes bread and deep-fries, then goes straight to the table for serving. The two questions most people ask before buying are: what size, and round or oval?
A simple sizing rule
A helpful rule of thumb is about 1 quart of capacity per person you usually cook for, plus a little extra if you like leftovers or batch cooking.
| Household | Suggested size | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 2 people | 2 to 4 quarts | Small stews, sides, sauces, rice |
| 3 to 5 people | 5 to 6 quarts | Family stews, chili, braises, bread, a small whole chicken |
| 6 or more people | 7 quarts and up | Large batches, big roasts, entertaining |
For most households, a 5 to 6 quart Dutch oven is the most useful all-around size. It is large enough for a family meal or a loaf of bread, but still manageable to lift and store.
Round or oval?
Choose round if...
- You cook mostly on the stovetop. A round base sits evenly on a standard burner and heats more evenly.
- You make soups, stews, chili, beans, rice or bread.
- You want one Dutch oven that does a little bit of everything.
Choose oval if...
- You often roast or braise longer cuts like a whole chicken, pork loin, short ribs or a leg of lamb.
- You do more cooking in the oven than on the stovetop.
- You like to serve long roasts straight from the pot.
Why enameled cast iron?
- Steady, even heat. Heavy cast iron holds temperature through long, slow cooking.
- No seasoning required. The enamel surface is ready to use from the first meal.
- Safe for acidic recipes. Tomato, wine and citrus will not react with the enamel or affect flavor.
- Stovetop to oven to table. Brown on the stove, finish in the oven, then serve.
Care tips that protect the enamel
- Use low to medium heat on the stovetop. Cast iron holds heat very well, so high heat is rarely needed.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes. Do not put a hot pot under cold water.
- Let it cool, then hand wash with warm water, mild soap and a soft sponge.
- Use wood or silicone utensils and avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Check oven-safe and lid-safe temperature limits on the product page before oven use.
Our Dutch ovens
- Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven, 5-Qt: our everyday all-rounder for soups, stews, braises and bread. Oven-safe up to 500°F and compatible with gas, electric, ceramic, halogen and induction cooktops.
- Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven, 6-Qt: extra length for whole chickens and longer roasts.
Explore more pieces, including our grill pan, roasting pan and tagine, in the enameled cast iron collection.