The Best Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Ovens Reviewed

Dutch Ovens have become an increasingly popular way to cook both outdoors and in the kitchen. Their versatility of their design means you can cook almost anything with a good cast iron dutch oven. We are going to take a look at some of the best available today made by the popular Lodge brand.

1. Lodge EC6D33 Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart

Let’s start with one of the most popular sellers, the EC6D33. This is one of the top selling Dutch Ovens on the market right now and with good reason. This dutch oven is covered in a colored porcelain enamel which gives it a stunning finish and it also eliminates the need for seasoning of the cast iron so it is a lot less work to maintain than a pure cast iron variety. The porcelain also means it is chip resistant and very easy to clean though it is recommended that you do not put it in the dishwasher.

You can use this oven on gas, electric, ceramic and induction cooktops, as well as in the oven. However it is recommended that you do not use it on an open flame so if you are looking for one you can use outdoors when camping or travelling you may need to look for a 100% cast iron version. This dutch oven offers amazing heat induction and retention meaning it is very economical on time and energy. When combined with an induction cooktop it is incredibly energy efficient.

From a design point of view this dutch oven is absolutely stunning and available in a huge range of vibrant colors as well as more traditional colors. It comes in 4 different sizes ranign from 3 to 7.5qt. The handle is stainless steel and stays cool when in use.

2. Lodge L8DOL3HH41PLT Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Handle Holders

Another very popular choice from Lodge. This Dutch Oven has been a best seller where ever it has been sold. This one is 100% cast iron meaning it can be used on virtually any cooker and on an open flame. Combining the fact that it is all cast iron and the build quality you get from Lodge means that this dutch oven is virtually indestructible. It is so hard wearing it will last for many many years and if looked after will probably last a few generations. It does require seasoning to keep it in top condition but it does come pre seasoned when you buy it so you can start using it straight away.

It has a classic design though obviously less striking than the previous model. It also comes with silicon handle covers which you will need as the handles and everything else gets incredibly hot when in use. It stays hot for a long time as well meaning it keeps your food hot for a long time even after you switch off the heat. This oven conducts heat so well that you can sear meat at higher temperatures meaning this is a very versatile addition to any kitchen.

3. Lodge L8DD3 Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven, 5-Quart

At first glance this one appears to have a rather strange design but that is because the lid doubles as a 10.25 inch Skillet. That means you get 2 pieces for your money here and it’s already a bargain without taking that into account. Like the previous model this is 100% cast iron so it has all the advantages of that. You can use it on any cooktop type including induction and on an open flame. Again this one comes pre seasoned and ready to use as soon as you get it.

This one doesn’t come packaged with silicon handle covers so you might want to think about buying them at the same time. They are really cheap to get anyway and you can get Lodge branded ones.

Again it is incredibly durable and the unique skillet lid makes this the perfect choice for travelling.

4. Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Deep Camp Dutch Oven

Something a little different now. This one has been specifically designed for use when camping or travelling and is specifically designed for use on an open flame. It comes with integrated legs meaning you can sit it in a camp fire with no problems. It also has a bucket style handle which as well as being useful for carrying the oven means it can be hung over a heat source such as a fire or hearth.

This oven is incredibly versatile and like the previous model on our list the lid doubles as a skillet.This lid goes one better though, with a flanged design it allows you to place hot coals directly on the lid so you can use this dutch oven for baking, stewing and roasting.

Because it’s cast iron you can use it on any heat source not just outdoors, you can happily use this indoors too on any cooktop type. Like all Lodge Dutch Ovens it comes pre seasoned and ready to use. You will need to season it yourself after use to keep it in top condition but that is the same with any cast iron product. It comes in 5, 8 and 10qt sizes and offers great value for money no matter which size you choose.

This Dutch Oven will last a lifetime and has been designed for heavy outdoor use.

5. Lodge EC7OD43 Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven, 7-Quart

Another great option is this oval shaped variety. The oval shape allows you to use this for things like roasting a chicken or turkey. This is very similar to the first item on our list. It has the same enamelled porcelain coating over the cast iron eliminating the need for seasoning and making it much easier to clean and maintain. Again though you probably shouldn’t put it in the dishwasher.

It also has a stay cool stainless steel handle on the lid so you won’t need to worry about finding something to cover the handle with when you want to peek in and your cooking.

It can be used on any cooktop type including induction but this one is not suitable for use on an open flame so you may want to consider one of the pure cast iron options on the list if you want to do some camp fire cooking. It doesn’t come in the huge range of colours like the first model but it does come in a lovely red color as well as a nice white finish.

Conclusion

All of these Dutch Ovens would be a great choice. Lodge are a reliable and trustworthy brand and 100% American made. The all cast iron models are practically indestructible with normal use so these are an incredible investment and will last you a lifetime.

If you are looking for one to use in the home then you may want to consider the stylish and modern enamel finished models. They are easier to clean and don’t require seasoning. They aren’t as durable though and although they are chip resistant it is possible to chip the surface. If you are looking for a more versatile option that you can use at home and on the road then go for a more traditional 100% cast iron choice. These can be used on an open flame and can cook pretty anything you want where ever you might be. Just bear in mind they require seasoning and are harder to clean. As well as this they get very hot which is great for cooking and keeping your food hot however it makes them harder to handle so you may want to invest in some silicon handle covers.

Whatever one you pick you won’t regret it. All are reasonably priced considering how long they will last and how much you can do with them. Let us know which one you decided to buy in the comments below.

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