I sometimes fall into the trap of thinking one special purchase could make me happier, healthier, and eons more productive. Trendy athletic wear, stylish journals, and hardworking headphones all fall into this category—and sure, sometimes they do nudge me toward the gym or a more organized to-do list. But if there’s one indulgence that’s actually made my everyday life better, it’s Le Creuset’s Dutch oven.
And right now, it’s $155 off on Amazon.
My parents gifted my fiancé and me the 5.5-quart version in Cerise last Christmas, and it’s been a permanent fixture on our stovetop ever since. (Seriously, we have nowhere else to put it.) When we added it to our wish list, we pictured ourselves braising beef in red wine on the chilliest winter nights. And while we have done that a couple of times, the Dutch oven has become more of a weeknight hero than we expected.
Just last night, we made a peanut butter sweet potato curry in it, and almost every Sunday since the temperature dropped below 70°F, we’ve thrown in an assortment of beans, broth, and veggies for a chili. I’m hitting my fiber and protein goal like never before, and most meals are as simple as chopping, stirring, and simmering. And because it's so big, I always have leftovers for lunch the next day.
Cleaning is also a breeze. I was worried that because the pot is so heavy, it might keep us from pulling it out for less-than-special occasions. However, the enamel coating makes most messes slide right off with just a few sprays from the faucet.
But don’t just take my extremely amateur word for it. The Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Lab regularly tests cookware, and they’ve deemed Le Creuset’s Dutch oven the best overall for years. The French brand has been around since 1925 and is known for its enameled cast iron cookware. Its pieces can go from the cooktop to the oven and are designed to last for decades.
My signature Dutch oven can simmer, boil, fry, braise, and bake, so you can make everything from creamy soups and stews to crusty bread, tender roasts, and even desserts. Our Kitchen Lab pros also rave about its even heat distribution, which means delicious food every time.
The pros also commend its durability: Some staffers have used the same Dutch oven for nearly 25 years. "Even if I scorch the bottom, by some miracle it's so easy to clean and never is ruined. It's magic!" says food producer Tina Martinez.
A few of the brand’s stunning colors are on sale, but Flame and Cerise have the steepest discounts right now. You can find sizes up to 13.25 quarts depending on your family’s needs, but the 5.5-quart is our personal favorite. It’s large enough to cook for the whole family, yet still light enough to maneuver around the kitchen.
I’m already brainstorming how I’ll use mine for fall desserts and Thanksgiving!
