Elena Price
14 min readMay 11, 2024

If you’re in search of a versatile, durable, and timeless cooking vessel, look no further. In this roundup, we present to you a collection of cast iron casseroles, perfect for your family dinners, holidays, or even a cozy night in. Discover why these timeless treasures continue to be a favourite among home cooks.

The Top 10 Best cast iron casseroles

  1. Provencal Blue Enameled Cast Iron 5.5 qt. Oval Casserole — Experience superior heat retention and distribution with the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron 5.5 qt. Oval Covered Casserole, featuring a Provencal Blue design that’s both attractive and durable for endless culinary possibilities.
  2. Cuisinart Grey/Lilac 7-Quart Round Covered Casserole Dish — Experience exceptional versatility and durability with Cuisinart’s 7-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Casserole, offering even heat distribution and easy cleaning for all your favorite recipes.
  3. Retro Enameled Cast Iron Casserole Braiser Pan Set — With its versatile and sturdy build, the Bruntmor Enameled Cast Iron Casserole Braiser Pan is a must-have kitchen essential for cooking enthusiasts, perfect for gift-giving and effortlessly handling a variety of dishes.
  4. Iittala Sarpaneva Cast Iron Casserole: Classic Cookware — The Iittala Sarpaneva Cast Iron Casserole is a stylish and functional kitchen essential that boasts a detachable wooden handle, durable enameled surface, and versatile heating capabilities, making it a top choice for modern dining experiences.
  5. MegaChef 7-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven — The MegaChef 7 Quarts Oval Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven offers even heat distribution, versatile cooking options, and durable enamel coating, making it an attractive and efficient choice for creating delicious meals all year round.
  6. Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Durable Porcelain Enamel — Enjoy mouth-watering dishes made with ease, thanks to Tramontina’s 6.5 qt Enameled Round Cast Iron Dutch Oven, boasting durable porcelain enamel, self-basting condensation ridges on the lid, and easy-to-clean features, perfect for stovetop and oven use!
  7. MegaChef Gray 7-Quart Cast Iron Casserole — Indulge in ultimate culinary convenience and style with the MegaChef Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole in Gray, boasting exceptional heat distribution, versatility, and healthier cooking options.
  8. Chrissy Teigen’s CRAVINGS Mini Cast Iron Casserole Set for Personal Servings — Indulge in effortless gourmet dinners with Chrissy Teigen’s CRAVINGS Enameled Cast Iron Mini Casserole Set, featuring personal sized dishes and durable gold lid handle to elevate your culinary creations.
  9. Crock-Pot Artisan 3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Gradient Red Casserole — Experience exceptional cooking versatility and durability with the Crock-Pot Artisan 3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Casserole, featuring even heat distribution and an easy-to-clean, non-stick surface in a stylish gradient red finish.
  10. MegaChef Red 7 Quart Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole for Versatile Cooking — MegaChef’s 7-Quart Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole in Red: A stylish, non-stick, and durable option for effortlessly preparing and serving hearty meals for large gatherings while promoting healthier cooking habits!

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Reviews

Provencal Blue Enameled Cast Iron 5.5 qt. Oval Casserole

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The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Casserole offers a stylish and functional touch to any kitchen. Its cast-iron design ensures superior heat retention and even distribution, making it versatile for use on the stovetop and oven.

The enameled finish adds an elegant touch, and the various sizes and styles cater to different cooking needs. The 5.5-quart oval casserole is dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 500°F, making cleaning and use convenient.

While some reviewers have noted the weight as a challenge, the casserole’s durability and easy cleanup outweigh the concerns for most users.

Cuisinart Grey/Lilac 7-Quart Round Covered Casserole Dish

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Cuisinart’s Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron Cookware is a versatile and stylish addition to any home chef’s kitchen. With its cast iron construction, the cookware retains heat exceptionally well and offers even heat distribution, ensuring perfect results every time. The porcelain enamel exterior finish keeps the cookware durable and complements any kitchen décor, while the porcelain enamel interior is ideal for cooking without imparting flavors or absorbing odors. The extreme versatility of the cookware means it’s compatible with induction stovetops, oven-safe, and broiler-safe, providing a range of cooking methods to explore. The dishwasher-safe feature also aids in easy maintenance and cleanup.

The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron 7-Quart Round Covered Casserole boasts a modern grey and lilac color combination, adding an attractive and elegant touch to your dining experience. The cookware is well-made and sturdy, making it an excellent choice for both professional and amateur cooks. While it may be a bit heavy to handle, its high-quality materials and performance make it well worth the slight inconvenience.

Overall, this cast iron casserole offers a perfect blend of style, functionality, and ease of use, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their cooking experience.

Retro Enameled Cast Iron Casserole Braiser Pan Set

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I’ve had the pleasure of using the Bruntmor Enameled Cast Iron Braiser Pan Skillet with Lid, and it’s become a favorite in my kitchen. Its versatility is a standout feature, as it can be used on the stove, in the oven, on the grill, or even over a campfire. I’ve found myself using it for an array of dishes, from braises and stews to sauces, and it has performed exceptionally well.

The enameled cast iron construction makes it both attractive and easy to clean. Once it’s seasoned, it becomes a breeze to work with and evenly distributes heat. The cast iron holds heat beautifully, ensuring your food stays warm and flavorsome. The large capacity also comes in handy for cooking larger portions or feeding a family.

However, as with any cast iron cookware, it requires proper care. Avoid dishwashers and use warm water and a soft sponge to clean it. Also, the pan is quite heavy, so it may not be ideal for those who struggle with lifting or want a lightweight option.

Overall, the Bruntmor Enameled Cast Iron Braiser Pan Skillet with Lid has been a fantastic addition to my kitchen, and I highly recommend it for those seeking a versatile and high-quality cooking tool.

Iittala Sarpaneva Cast Iron Casserole: Classic Cookware

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The Iittala Sarpaneva Cast Iron Casserole is a timeless piece that brings both functionality and elegance to the kitchen and dining table. Its detachable wooden handle makes it a breeze to handle, while the cast iron body ensures even heat distribution and prevents flavors from sticking. The enameled surface is easy to clean, and this versatile casserole is suitable for use on various stovetops including induction, ceramic, gas, and iron hobs.

However, I found that the casserole has a slightly lower stain resistance compared to other materials, and it’s essential to use wooden or plastic utensils to avoid scratching the enamel surface. Despite this minor drawback, the Iittala Sarpaneva Cast Iron Casserole is a well-made, durable, and attractive addition to any modern kitchen.

MegaChef 7-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven

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Experience the power of MegaChef’s 7 Quarts Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole, the perfect companion for your culinary adventures. Its sturdy yet sleek design allows it to be the star of the show at any dinner party, accommodating big cuts of meat or an entire roast chicken. With the non-stick enamel coating, prepare healthier meals for your loved ones while avoiding unnecessary oils and fats.

Witness even heat distribution that guarantees consistent results every time. As for cleaning, it’s a breeze with its scratch resistance properties.

This beauty is not only durable but also aesthetically appealing; a true testament to MegaChef’s craftsmanship.

Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Durable Porcelain Enamel

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This Tramontina Dutch Oven, with a 6.5-quart capacity, is a staple in any kitchen due to its versatility and durability. The enameled cast iron outer layer provides a stylish cherry red finish, while the inside boasts a porcelain interior, making it ideal for effortless cooking and serving.

This stove-top-ovens also features self-basting condensation ridges on its lid, ensuring that your food stays moist and tender. Furthermore, its oven-safe technology allows it to function up to 400°F / 204°C, making it suitable for a wide range of cooking methods.

The Dutch oven’s large capacity also adds to its convenience, serving as a covered casserole dish that can be easily transitioned to the dining table once cooked. Despite its robust build, the red enamel cast iron oven remains surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver.

However, some users have reported that the enamel can be prone to scratches, which may affect its stain resistance. Despite this minor drawback, the Tramontina Dutch Oven remains a sturdy and practical addition to any culinary arsenal, with its ease of use and even heat distribution being commended by many reviewers.

MegaChef Gray 7-Quart Cast Iron Casserole

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The MegaChef Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole in Gray is a versatile and stylish addition to any kitchen. Its 7-quart capacity makes it perfect for a variety of dishes, including whole chicken and larger cuts of meat. The cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution for delicious, hearty meals.

Despite its substantial 15-pound weight, it’s still convenient for mobility due to its oval shape. The non-stick enamel coating reduces the need for excessive oil or fat, making it a healthier choice for daily cooking. As it’s both dishwasher and oven safe, cleaning up after preparing meals is a breeze.

This casserole is adored by its users, praising its durability, appearance, and ease of cleaning.

Chrissy Teigen’s CRAVINGS Mini Cast Iron Casserole Set for Personal Servings

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Crafting delectable meals just got a touch more stylish with the Chrissy Teigen 2 Piece 4.7 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Mini Casserole Set. This charmingly mini, yet impactful, set of casseroles promises a delightful dining experience. You might think of these mini casseroles as the perfect vessel for personal meals, where the gold-accented handle adds a touch of royalty to your everyday cooking.

Notably, these casseroles are made of durable cast iron, proving to be a sturdy companion in your kitchen. The enameled cast iron base not only creates a visually striking look, but also enhances the cooking experience. Being oven safe, it ensures your casserole dishes emerge golden brown and crispy, ready to impress your guests.

Each casserole in the set is personal sized, providing just the ideal serving — no more, no less. This mini casserole set offers the perfect opportunity to whip up a new recipe or to bake your signature dip. Whether it’s creamy mac and cheese or rich scalloped potatoes, these versatile mini casseroles can handle it with aplomb.

In maintaining these casseroles, you don’t need to worry about extra cleaning as they don’t require any special attention. The mini set is easy to clean and can be stored without requiring a lot of space. And the best part? It’s not limited by size; use your creativity to indulge in various delightful dishes.

However, while using these mini casseroles, one should remember they do require careful handling. Despite their petite size, they can carry heavy cookware which could lead to accidents if not handled with care.

Overall, the Chrissy Teigen 2 Piece 4.7 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Mini Casserole Set is a perfect blend of style and functionality, adding a charm to your everyday meals, while not compromising its durability or utility. If you’re looking to elevate your mini culinary creations, this casserole set is hard to beat.

Crock-Pot Artisan 3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Gradient Red Casserole

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The Artisan 3 Qt Enameled Cast Iron Casserole with Lid is a versatile and attractive addition to any kitchen. Its stunning gradient red finish adds a touch of elegance to any dish and is easy to clean thanks to its porcelain enamel finish, which is even nonstick.

With its sturdy construction and even heat distribution, you can slow simmer and bake to your heart’s content without worrying about uneven heating. You can easily move it from the stovetop to the oven and store leftovers in the refrigerator for later use.

This casserole offers a wide range of possibilities, allowing you to create a plethora of dishes that both taste and look delightful.

MegaChef Red 7 Quart Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole for Versatile Cooking

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As someone who enjoys cooking, I recently got my hands on the MegaChef Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole in Red. This 7-quart dutch oven is the perfect addition to any kitchen, especially for hosting grand dinner parties. The cast iron material makes it long-lasting and ensures even heat distribution, perfect for your evening supper.

One feature that stood out for me was the oval shape, which allows it to accommodate whole chickens or larger cuts of meat. I used it to roast a whole chicken for a family dinner and it turned out delicious! The non-stick enamel coating not only makes cleaning a breeze, but also allows you to cut down on oils and fats, making it a healthier option for your daily meals.

Despite the high-quality cast iron, there is one downside: the weight. This heavy-duty casserole might be a bit challenging to move around, but the trade-off of its durability is well worth it. Overall, I’m glad I made the purchase and would highly recommend the MegaChef Oval Enameled Cast Iron Casserole for anyone who loves to cook or host dinner parties.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our Buyer’s Guide for Cast Iron Casseroles! In this guide, we’ll cover the essential features and considerations to keep in mind when choosing the perfect cast iron casserole for your needs. We will provide general advice and helpful tips to guide you through the selection process.

Selection Criteria

When choosing a cast iron casserole, consider the following factors to make an informed decision based on your requirements and preferences. These factors will help you evaluate your options and select the best cast iron casserole for your kitchen. Key factors to consider are size, material, style, and heat distribution.

Size

The size of the cast iron casserole will determine how much food it can hold and how well it fits with your cooktop. Consider the number of people you need to cook for and the typical size of dishes you prepare. The range of available sizes includes 18" as the most comprehensive size and smaller sizes like 10" or 12" for smaller meals or storage purposes.

Material

The material of the cast iron casserole plays a significant role in its durability and performance. Look for high-quality cast iron with a smooth and evenly seasoned surface. A properly seasoned casserole will be less likely to stick and easier to clean. Some casseroles also come with an enameled finish, which provides an additional layer of protection against rust and provides a more even heat distribution.

Style

Cast iron casseroles are available in various styles, including Dutch ovens, casseroles, and skillets. Consider the types of dishes you’ll be preparing and the style of casserole that will best suit your needs. For instance, Dutch ovens are excellent for slow cooking, while casseroles are perfect for baking and roasting.

FAQ

Discover the Advantages of a Cast Iron Casserole

A cast iron casserole provides numerous benefits, including uniform heat distribution, robustness, and flexibility in culinary endeavors. Its solid construction aids in retaining heat, particularly beneficial for recipes requiring slow-cooking and braising techniques. Furthermore, cast iron casseroles boast durability, making them invaluable additions to any kitchen.

Moreover, cast iron casseroles enhance the taste of food. During the slow cooking process, the metal interacts with the ingredients, infusing them with a rich, potent flavor. These versatile casseroles offer various cooking options, encompassing stovetop, oven, and even camping with compatible stoves.

Is it Safe to Use Cast Iron Casseroles for Preparing Food?

Cast iron casseroles are entirely safe for cooking purposes. They undergo a curing process during production, eradicating any potential contaminants. However, proper seasoning is critical before the first use and subsequent regular seasoning to preserve the protective coating.

Seasoning entails applying a layer of oil onto the casserole and baking it at a high temperature. This procedure establishes a natural, non-stick, and effortless-to-clean surface that deters rust and prevents food adherence to the cast iron. By adhering to the correct seasoning techniques, the safety and longevity of your cast iron casserole can be guaranteed.

How Do I Maintain and Clean a Cast Iron Casserole?

Cleaning and maintaining a cast iron casserole is straightforward. Post-use, let the casserole cool, then wash it with warm water and a gentle dishwashing liquid. Preventive measures should be implemented to maintain the casserole’s protective seasoning coating. Avoid using harsh sponges or abrasive cleaners.

If persistent food residue persists, immerse the casserole in warm water, adding a mild dishwashing liquid. Allow the residue to soften for a few hours, then scrub gently with a soft sponge. Post-cleaning, dry the casserole thoroughly using a clean towel or hot stovetop elements turned off. This ensures any residual moisture evaporates, preventing rust.

Can Cast Iron Casseroles Be Used on Induction Cooktops?

Cast iron casseroles are compatible with induction cooktops, provided they have a flat bottom. Most cast iron casseroles conform to this design, enabling even heating and efficient energy transfer. Conversely, confirm the compatibility of the cookware by checking its suitability for induction cooktops, as some may possess magnetic properties that render them unsuitable for use.

To ascertain suitability, conduct a simple test utilizing a magnet. If the magnet attaches to the cookware’s surface, it is compatible with induction cooktops. If the magnet does not adhere, it is advisable to refrain from using the cast iron casserole on an induction cooktop.

How to Store a Cast Iron Casserole

Storing a cast iron casserole thoughtfully inhibits rust formation and preserves its quality. Commence by cleaning and drying the casserole. Apply a thin layer of oil onto the surface to obstruct moisture accumulation.

Securely store the casserole in a dry area, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from humidity and direct sun exposure. To prevent scratches and further safeguard the coating, place a cloth or paper towel between the casserole and any adjoining surfaces. For an additional layer of protection, covering the casserole with aluminum foil during storage is a prudent measure.

Which Alternative Materials are Used for Making Casserole Dishes?

Alternative materials to cast iron for crafting casserole dishes encompass aluminum, stainless steel, and ceramic. Each material showcases distinct qualities that cater to varying culinary requirements and preferences. For instance, aluminum casseroles exhibit impressive heat conductivity and prompt heat regulation.

Stainless steel casseroles embody durability and simplicity in maintenance. These materials can withstand varying cooking modalities, including stovetop, oven, and microwave. Ceramic casseroles are non-stick and effortless to clean, ideal for delicate dishes as they deter food attachment. However, ceramic casseroles may be more brittle and are less resilient against abrupt temperature shifts as compared to cast iron or stainless steel.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I may earn through qualified purchases at no cost to you