Searching for the perfect Dutch oven for your induction cooktop can turn into a wild goose chase. As an avid home cook who recently switched to an induction cooktop, finding the right Dutch oven posed an unexpected challenge. Many Dutch ovens don’t work with induction due to their materials.
If you’re in the market for the best Dutch ovens for induction cooktops as well, I can help you in your shopping. Read on to find out some great options.
How I Tested
To determine the best-performing Dutch ovens for induction ranges, I conducted in-depth testing assessing key criteria:
- Heating Consistency – I seared meat, made sauces, boiled water, and more to gauge how evenly and efficiently each Dutch oven distributed heat on an induction cooktop. The evenness of searing and lack of hot spots stood out in my top picks.
- Cooking Performance – I tested versatility by cooking a range of dishes in each Dutch oven including chili, braised short ribs, bread, frittata, risotto, and caramelized onions. I evaluated results for texture, consistency, flavor development, and more.
- Durability – During testing I inspected for durability issues like chipping or cracking on the enameling. Afterward, I washed by hand, assessing wear and tear on the enamel over time.
- Design & Handling – I measured factors like weight, ergonomics of handles, ease of cleaning, clarity of markings, and shape versatility. My top picks were harder to lift when full but offered excellent grip and balance.
- Value Analysis – I compared performance and design to price across all models, noting where certain Dutch ovens stood out as great values or overpriced underperformers. For example, Le Creuset cost the most but proved worth it.
Best Dutch Oven for Induction Stoves – 2024 Reviews
Through extensive testing of the top brands and models, I’ve discovered the ideal Dutch ovens for induction cooking. I’ll share my research to help you invest in enameled cast iron pots and pans that truly maximize an induction’s potential.
1. Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
The Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a great mid-range option if you’re looking for an enameled cast iron Dutch oven that will work on an induction cooktop. I really like the large 6 quart capacity which provides enough space to cook for larger groups. The dual loop handles also make it easy to lift even when full.
The enamel has held up well for me over time without chipping or cracking. I use this Dutch oven for making stews, pot roasts, soups, and even bread with great results. Browning and searing meat is quick and even. The white color enamel on the inside makes it easy to monitor cooking progress and food browning.
In terms of downsides, it is quite heavy, which can make storage and handling trickier. Additionally, the enamel surface isn’t as smooth as some higher-end brands, but I haven’t found that impacts cooking. For the price, I think this Lodge enameled Dutch oven is an excellent value. I would definitely recommend you check it out if you want a quality mid-priced enameled cast iron Dutch oven.
Pros – What I Liked
- Large 6-quart capacity fits most recipes
- Dual loop handles provide easy lifting
- Chips-resistant enamel coating
- Excellent heat retention
- Versatile for many cooking methods
- Reasonably priced for enameled cast iron
Cons – What I Didn’t Like
- Heavy and cumbersome to maneuver
- Enamel is not as smooth as premium brands
- Prone to staining over time
2. T-fal 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
If you’re looking for a very affordable enameled cast iron Dutch oven that will work on an induction cooktop, the T-fal 6 Quart Enameled Dutch Oven is an option you’ll want to consider. I was pleasantly surprised by how well this budget-friendly pick performed.
The enamel coating has proven surprisingly durable, without any noticeable wearing or staining over the last year I’ve used it. I especially like the vibrant cherry red color which looks great in any kitchen. The shape is well-suited for soups and stews while still working nicely for roasts or bread.
My only real complaint is that the enamel surface doesn’t have as smooth a finish compared to premium brands like Le Creuset. However, I haven’t found that impacts cooking or makes it more difficult to clean up. For the very reasonable asking price, I think this T-fal enameled Dutch oven punches well above its weight. You’ll struggle to find better value for money.
Pros – What I Liked
- Budget-friendly price
- Vibrant cherry red color
- Decent heat distribution
- Resistant enamel finish
- Large capacity
Cons – What I Didn’t Like
- Enamel texture is not fully smooth
- Durability questionable over many years
- Handles small and not very ergonomic
3. Le Creuset 5.5 Quart Round Dutch Oven
If you’re willing to invest in what is arguably the gold standard for enameled cast iron Dutch ovens, Le Creuset is a brand you must consider. I’ve been using a 5.5-quart round Dutch oven from Le Creuset for many years and absolutely love it. The Flame exterior color has maintained its vibrant, glossy finish impressively well over time and frequent use, with no noticeable wearing or staining.
Inside, the sand-colored enamel finish is perfectly smooth. Browning and searing food are always quick and even, while soups, stews, and even bread get delicious results thanks to excellent heat distribution and moisture retention. The handles make lifting comfortable when filled, and the tight-fitting lid seals in heat and moisture perfectly.
Yes, Le Creuset is expensive. However, in my experience, this enameled cast iron Dutch oven should last decades with proper care. I highly recommend you check them out if budget allows. You simply won’t find better quality or performance.
Pros – What I Liked
- Beautiful glossy enamel finish
- Very durable over many years
- Smooth food release
- Excellent browning and searing
- Great moisture and heat retention
- Comfortable large handles
Cons – What I Didn’t Like
- Extremely expensive
- Very heavy and bulky
- Color exterior prone to staining
4. Staub 5qt Oval Cocotte in Basil
If you love cooking with enameled cast iron but want something with a bit more visual flair, the oval 5qt Staub Cocotte in Basil may catch your eye as it did mine. The rich green color and oval shape offer a nice point of difference from the usual round Dutch ovens. I find this Staub cocotte piece perfect for making delicious braised meat dishes and hearty stews thanks to excellent browning, great heat retention, and distribution.
The enamel coating inside and out has proven very durable and easy to care for over several years of frequent use with no wearing or staining issues to report. While hardly cheap, I’ve found this Staub-enameled cast iron oval cocotte to offer comparable real-world performance and longevity to the more expensive Le Creuset Dutch ovens. If you want your cookware to make a statement, I highly recommend you consider this Staub cocotte piece.
Pros – What I Liked
- Attractive green color pops
- Unique oval shape
- Great for braising and stewing
- Smooth durable enamel
- Excellent heat distribution
- Comparable quality to Le Creuset
Cons – What I Didn’t Like
- Pricey but not budget-breaking
- Shape less versatile
- Matte enamel shows wear over time
- Green color may stain tomatoes
5. Overmont 2-in-1 Pre Seasoned Dutch Oven
If you’re seeking an enameled cast iron Dutch oven for induction cooking on a tight budget, this Overmont 2-in-1 Dutch Oven is an option I think is well worth considering. Inside the enamel is slightly textured which seems to help with browning and heat distribution. The lid can also double as a skillet which provides added practical value.
For the very reasonable price, I’ve been impressed with both cooking results and durability over the last year. There is no visible wearing or staining of the enamel despite frequent use. The capacity is also large enough to handle most recipes. Just keep in mind at this price point the smoothness and longevity don’t match premium brands. However, for budget-conscious induction users looking for an enameled cast iron Dutch oven, I think this 2-in-1 Overmont Dutch Oven is a winner.
Pros – What I Liked
- Very wallet-friendly price
- Lid doubles as a skillet
- Good searing and browning
- Large 5-quart capacity
Cons – What I Didn’t Like
- Enamel not fully smooth
- Durability concerns over time
- Hand washing recommended
- Lid shape is not very versatile
6. Crock-Pot Artisan 5 Quart Round Dutch Oven
If you want a handsome enameled cast iron Dutch oven suitable for induction cooking with a unique style, the Crock-Pot Artisan 5 Quart Round Dutch Oven catches the eye beautifully with its ombre teal design that fades from dark to light. But beyond good looks, I’ve found performance matches aesthetics.
The enameling withstands scorching nicely without staining, makes cleaning easy, and displays an attractive smooth finish. The shape works great for a wide variety of dishes from baking bread to braising meat. Glass lid lets me peer in while retaining moisture and heat efficiently. Plus dual handles provide a secure grip.
My only complaint would be the significant weight which makes handling cumbersome. However, that’s expected with enameled cast iron, and also aids heat retention. For an attractive style merged with strong enameled cast iron Dutch oven cooking performance, I highly recommend you take a close look at this eye-catching Crock-Pot Artisan piece.
Pros – What I Liked
- Gorgeous ombre teal design
- Smooth durable enamel layer
- Glass lid to see food
- Great heat distribution
- Handles offer good grip
Cons – What I Didn’t Like
- Very heavy and hard to maneuver
- Only the lid color fades over time
- Curved shape harder to stack
- Crock-Pot brand not renowned
What to Look for When Buying Dutch Ovens for Induction Cooktops
When shopping for a Dutch oven to use on an induction cooktop, there are a few key features you need to prioritize. These include:
- Materials – The most critical factor is finding cookware made from ferromagnetic materials so it works with induction in the first place. Both bare cast iron and enameled cast iron contain iron, so they heat up when exposed to a magnetic field.
- Enameled Cast Iron – Enameled cast iron Dutch ovens have a glass-like porcelain enamel coating which makes them ideal for slow, moist cooking methods. The non-reactive surface won’t alter food flavors or absorb odors either. The enamel makes them stick-resistant, rust-resistant, and easy to clean too.
- Quality Enameling – However, not all enameling proves equal, so you want to inspect the thickness and durability of the coating. All my top picks feature heavy, high-quality enamel that resists chipping or cracking impressively well over time. Decorative colors on the exterior do little for function, but lighter interiors make monitoring cooking easier.
- Smooth Finish – The texture of the enamel also matters for ease of cleaning and food release. My top picks offer remarkably smooth finishes, especially Le Creuset. This prevents food from sticking stubbornly while also allowing you to develop fondness for enhanced flavor.
- Design Elements – Handles should provide a sturdy grip when moving a heavy pot full of food. Look for integrated handles that stay cooler. Lids must contain moisture and heat efficiently, with tight seals, high sides and heavy materials. Helper handles are also useful for getting a lid off.
What Size Dutch Oven Do I Need?
Choosing what size Dutch oven you need depends mainly on a few factors:
- Number of people you regularly cook for
- Types of dishes you make most in a Dutch oven
- Available storage space in your kitchen
In general, I’d recommend a minimum capacity of 5-6 quarts, which provides ample room for most recipe needs. However, if you frequently cook large roasts, make big batches of braised meats or need to feed more than 4 people, going bigger (7-9 quarts) ensures you can still use your favorite Dutch oven recipes with ample room.
Just keep in mind that larger cast iron Dutch ovens weigh much more. You’ll need to be able to safely lift and maneuver a big pot full of food easily. And make sure you have cabinet space to store a large piece of cookware. For most home cooks, starting with a 5-6 quart Dutch oven is ideal, then potentially adding a larger one down the road if needed.
Verdict – My Top Picks
After rigorous testing, three Dutch ovens earned my highest marks for performance and durability on induction:
- Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven
- Lodge Enameled Cast Iron 6 qt Dutch Oven
- Staub 5 qt Cast Iron Round Cocotte
While pricier, Le Creuset proved the best enameled cast iron for our money. Their superior craftsmanship should last decades with proper care. For budget buys under $100, Lodge impressed with excellent cooking and surprising durability over our testing period. Staub offers comparable quality to Le Creuset if you want a fancier shape or color.
Common Questions
What colors work best?
While colors don’t impact performance, lighter enameling shows food browning best. Darker exteriors hide staining issues common over time with enameled surfaces.
Are there alternatives that cost less?
Yes, brands like Tramontina or Kirkland offer more budget options under $50. However, durability and cooking performance suffer at lower price points. I believe Lodge hits the best balance on a budget.
Should I re-season my Dutch oven?
No, the enameled coating means you don’t need to season an enameled cast iron Dutch oven. Simply wash by hand gently after each use.
