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Staub vs. Le Creuset? 2023 Dutch Oven Comparison

Staub vs. Le Creuset? This 2023 Dutch Oven Comparison will explore the differences between two of the most popular brands, Le Creuset and Staub.

Staub vs. Le Creuset? A 2023 Dutch Oven Comparison

If you’ve been researching Dutch ovens, and you’re unsure what are the best Dutch ovens that home cooks use, this is the post for you!

You will love this post if you’re interested in learning what makes the good quality, and the specific tasks each enameled Dutch oven provides.

These heirloom pots are a big investment, and you want to choose the one that will be perfect for you and your cooking style.

Finding the right Dutch oven for your home takes careful research, and if this is your first time purchasing I highly recommend popping into Williams Sonoma, Crate and Barrel, or Sur La Table to look and feel these enameled cast iron Dutch ovens in person. 

comparing dutch ovens and which one is best

Staub vs. Le Creuset? A 2023 Dutch Oven Comparison

First, let’s start with a quick overview of what a Dutch oven actually is. 

A Dutch oven is a heavy-duty cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid, traditionally made of cast iron. They are versatile and can be used for a wide range of cooking methods, including stovetop cooking, baking, roasting, and even deep-frying. 

They are great for slow-cooking stews, soups, and casseroles, and are a must-have for any serious home cook. 

During the 17th century, cooking pots were mostly brass. While it was the main material for cooking, Abraham Darby realized there was a less expensive alternative, cast iron. Most countries and cultures have their own versions of cooking pots, most with a black interior that cook at high temperatures.

Differences between Le Creuset and Staub Dutch Ovens 

Both are highly regarded brands with a long history of producing high-quality cookware, but there are some key differences to consider when choosing between the two.

Material –  The first difference between the two is the material. Le Creuset Dutch ovens are made of enameled cast iron, while Staub Dutch ovens are made of cast iron with a matte black enamel finish. Both materials have their pros and cons, so it really comes down to personal preference.

None have bare cast iron, which is important to note. The biggest difference between coated cast iron and a regular old-fashioned cast iron pan is the “gold standard” coating Staub uses. 

le creuset dutch oven

Enameled cast iron is highly durable and resistant to chipping and cracking. It’s also non-reactive, which means you can cook acidic foods like tomatoes and vinegar-based sauces without worrying about any metallic flavors being imparted into your food. On the other hand, enameled cast iron is prone to staining and discoloration over time, especially if you use it frequently. The porcelain enamel coating is dishwasher safe, although they’re super easy for hand washing.

Cast iron with a matte black enamel finish, on the other hand, is less prone to staining and discoloration. 

These high-quality Dutch ovens come with a lifetime warranty and are meant to be heirloom cookware. 

staub dutch oven

Design – Another difference between Le Creuset and Staub is the design. 

Le Creuset Dutch ovens have a more classic look, with their signature bright colors and glossy finish. They also have a more rounded shape, with a slightly domed lid and a wide, shallow base. This design is great for even heat distribution and makes them ideal for cooking large cuts of meat or braising vegetables.

Staub Dutch ovens, on the other hand, have a more rustic look, with their matte black finish and unique lid design. The lid has small spikes on the underside that help to evenly distribute moisture throughout the pot, which is great for slow-cooking dishes like stews and braises. The base of Staub Dutch ovens is also slightly more oval-shaped, which can be useful for fitting larger pieces of meat or poultry.

​These are also known for high sides, depending on which shape you purchase.

Performance of the Best Cast Iron Cookware

 When it comes to performance, both Le Creuset and Staub Dutch ovens are excellent. 

They both heat up evenly and retain heat well, which is important for slow-cooking dishes. They both also have tight-fitting lids that help to seal in moisture and flavor. They hold high heat well and are a great option when your heat source is uneven.

They work on all cooking surfaces, electric, gas, convection, and oven-safe. I’ve never used mine on a grill but would do well. Not microwave-safe… Just putting that out there, folks!

However, there are some subtle differences in performance that may sway you towards one brand or the other.

Chicken Confit in a Le Creuset Braiser

For example, Staub pots are known for their ability to evenly distribute moisture throughout the pot, thanks to the small spikes on the underside of the lid. This can be particularly useful if you’re making a stew or braise and want to ensure that every piece of meat or vegetable is cooked to perfection. 

staub self-basting lid

Staub lids use a self-basting lid technique that sets their lids apart from Le Creuset’s Dutch ovens. It’s a big difference that seems small at the time.

Le Creuset Dutch ovens, on the other hand, are known for their wide, shallow base, which makes them ideal for browning meat and vegetables. They also have a slightly domed lid, which can be useful if you’re cooking a large roast or poultry and want to ensure that there’s enough space for it to cook evenly.

The flat lid on a le creuset pot fits very snugly and really holds in the heat. For a very long time, I didn’t have a slow cooker, I just used my Dutch oven in a low-temperature oven! 

I personally own several Le Creuset ovens and braisers in varying colors. 

The blue braiser is perfect for this one-pot-wonder dinner recipe idea, French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake.

The stainless steel knob on each of these pots is useful for high-heat cooking, whether on the stove or in the oven.

staub animal knobs

Staub offers cute animal options for their lid knobs, and Le Creuset offers variations on their knobs that are tailored to your specific cooking need. 

Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Price

Finally, there’s the matter of price. 

Le Creuset cookware tends to be slightly more expensive than Staub cookware. This is partly due to the brand’s long-standing reputation for quality and durability, but also because they offer a wider range of sizes and colors. Le Creuset Dutch ovens can cost anywhere from around $150 to over $500, depending on the size and style.

Staub Dutch ovens, on the other hand, are generally slightly more affordable than Le Creuset Dutch ovens. They typically range in price from around $100 to $400, depending on the size and style. However, it’s worth noting that Staub Dutch ovens come in fewer colors than Le Creuset Dutch ovens, which may be a downside for some people. The good news is they are adding gorgeous colors all the time! 

turkey soup with pink le creuset dutch oven

The Staub Cocotte is a great present to get for newlyweds or someone who has everything. It’s the cutest little French oven, that comes in tons of colors and is super versatile.

While you can purchase this high quality cookware from lots of stores, keep an eye out at TJ Maxx and Marshalls. That’s where I “collected” my first pot, and it was in a clearance section.

Lodge makes ceramic cookware that is similar to the light-colored interior cookware. And guess what, it performs basically the same. 

​If you’re looking for a heavy-bottomed, lidded pot that just so happens to have an interior coating of enamel, the Lodge Dutch Oven will fit your bill! It’s a quarter of the price, too. Yay!

Which Dutch oven is right for you? 

In conclusion, Staub vs. Le Creuset… ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and your individual cooking needs. If you’re looking for a classic, brightly colored Dutch oven that’s highly durable and perfect for browning meat and vegetables, a Le Creuset Dutch oven might be the right choice for you. 

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more rustic-looking Dutch oven that excels at slow-cooking dishes and evenly distributing moisture throughout the pot, a Staub Dutch oven might be the better option.

Regardless of which brand you choose, investing in a high-quality Dutch oven is a great way to take your cooking to the next level. With their even heat distribution, tight-fitting lids, and versatility, a Dutch oven can be a true workhorse in your kitchen. So go ahead, choose your favorite brand and color, and get ready to create some delicious meals!

purple le creuset dutch oven

When you’re making your decision, think about what you want to cook, and how often you make that dish.

Le Creuset pots are great for soups, and stews, making no-knead bread, cooking a whole chicken, and more. There is a good reason why it’s so versatile, and you’ll come to love having it on your stovetop!

At the end of the day, it’s up to you to choose the best option.

Take your questions to your local kitchen store and ask the age-old question: Staub vs. Le Creuset! Ask their opinions on the comparison, and get their expertise.

​Staub vs. Le Creuset: Tips for Using a Cast-Iron Dutch Oven

When you purchase your piece, be sure to give it a good quick clean with dish soap and warm water. Allow it to either air dry, to dry with a cotton dishcloth.

​Now, when you go to use your pot, keep oven mitts close by! The knob gets VERY hot, as do the handles.

pulled pork chalupa braised in a le creuset dutch oven

You can use metal utensils on the white interior pots, but just know you will end up with streaks on the bottom. Nothing a little Bar Keeper’s Friend can’t get rid of!

Le Creuset makes great wooden handle utensils with silicone molded heads. If you want to keep your pot pristine, I recommend these highly!

With the Staub pots, you can use stainless steel utensils without any worry of streaking.

This war of Staub vs. Le Creuset is at the end of the day quite silly! I should say I love Le Creuset more, because that is what I own. But, I have cooked in a Staub, and absolutely love it.

Here are some recipes I love making in my Dutch ovens:

Quick and Easy Pulled Pork Chalupa – while this is a quick and easy recipe from a cheeky step of picking up pulled pork from your local BBQ restaurant, you can also braise your pork shoulder in your pot!

split pea soup recipe made in a dutch oven

Split Pea Soup – nothing is better than a big pot of simmering split pea soup, and this recipe is the only reason I love making a big baked ham! Heck! You could even cook your ham in these ovens.

collard greens recipe with bacon in a dutch oven

Collard Greens Recipe with Bacon – You can’t have good collards without a good pot likker. And braising these greens in these pots is phenomenal!

smothered southern chicken in a dutch oven braiser pot by le creuset

Smothered Southern Chicken – you can make this dish all in one pot. Fry up your chicken, then make your gravy that simmers with the chicken. 

north carolina chicken recipe

North Carolina Chicken – here is an example of a dish that can be made in the slow cooker, or a Dutch oven. Searing the chicken first in the Dutch oven, then slowly cooking until impossibly tender is worth it!

Lemon Olive Oil Chicken Confit with Carrots

Chicken Confit – this show-stopping dinner party recipe is why I purchased my braiser! Fill it was chicken pieces, carrots, and onions, then bake with olive oil until incredibly moist and tender.

gruyere macaroni and cheese recipe

Gruyere Macaroni and Cheese – create a stove-top version of this ultra-creamy mac-n-cheese recipe, and then broil for a few minutes to get that golden brown top. That’s why I love my LC braiser! Stovetop to oven in seconds.

Staub vs. Le Creuest? That’s up to you!

Now, go off and invest in this incredible cookware that will last you a lifetime! I’m sure after the first purchase you will learn how versatile these cooking pots are, and how often you use them!

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Staub vs. Le Creuset? A 2023 Dutch Oven Comparison

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