I'm Convinced My Favorite Dutch Oven Is the Best Le Creuset Dupe

I managed to get by for years without a Dutch oven, using my stockpot or Instant Pot whenever a recipe called for one. I reckoned that I could hold out until my budget finally allowed for my dream Le Creuset enameled cast-iron Dutch oven. Then I picked up a homemade bread habit and for me, there's nothing better than a fresh boule made in a Dutch oven.

While Le Creuset's cookware is very high-quality and will last at least one lifetime, I didn't have $420 lying around for the 5.5-quart model I wanted. Instead, I turned to the brand I already trusted with my cornbreads and weekend Dutch baby: Lodge. You might know Lodge's raw cast iron cookware, but it also makes fantastic enameled cast iron that's easy on the wallet.

Lodge 6-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

I knew I'd made the right choice the first night I had it (yes, I baked bread in it right away). It's lighter than I expected, with a light-colored interior so I monitor what's cooking, and a stainless-steel knob that I don't have to worry about being ruined. And the best part is it heats up evenly and can get really hot when I need it to, usually for browning beef or frying crispy bacon. After three years of regular cooking, the most cleanup I've had to do is a quick scrub with baking soda paste (the worst offender being beef Bourguignon).

Do I still want a Le Creuset? Sure, sometimes. But I truly love my Lodge Dutch oven and it'll continue to be one of our best Dutch oven recommendations. It's not the only Le Creuset Dutch oven alternative our team loves; here are a few other ones we highly recommend.

The Pioneer Woman Timeless Beauty Enamel Cast Iron 6-Quart Dutch Oven

Calling all Pioneer Woman fans, this 6-quart cocotte might just be for you. If you fall for the floral design and beautiful turquoise enamel (it also comes in red), you're in for a treat. The thick cast iron heats up wonderfully and retains heat just as well as a Le Creuset. The enamel doesn't wear or chip with regular use (and will even survive a move or two). And it's oven-safe to 500°F for your mac and cheese or arroz con pollo.

Crock-Pot 7-Quart Artisan Round Enameled Dutch Oven

When we tested Dutch ovens in our lab, Crock-Pot's version was a sleeper hit. The 7-quart version—it is also available in 3-quart and 5-quart—is more than enough room for anything you could want to braise or bake. It heats evenly and comes in a wide range of colors, just like a Le Creuset. It even has a self-basting design on the bottom of the lid, something you don't usually find on inexpensive Dutch ovens.

Martha Stewart Gatwick 7-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

A wide cooking surface and light-colored interior are two of the main features of a Le Creuset Dutch oven as well as this 7-quart Dutch oven from Martha Stewart's cookware line. Some design features—like the extra-wide handles and the numerous nubs on the self-basting lid—are even better than more expensive Dutch ovens. Of course, this is also available in a range of hues with a few sporting gold knobs. I also like this more modern-looking 5-quart Dutch oven from Martha by Martha Stewart.

Tramontina 5.5-Quart Dutch Oven Cast Iron 

Dutch ovens from Brazilian cookware brand Tramontina regularly receive top marks for heat distribution and retention. And I love this sleek 5.5-quart with its tall sides, matte finish, and gold knob. This is great for anyone who prefers the dark interior of a Staub over the light Le Creuset, though keep in mind that it is only oven-safe to 450°F.

Great Jones The Dutchess Dutch Oven

Great Jones' The Dutchess, our "Best Oval Dutch Oven," has the same high-end aesthetic as Le Creuset, with its gold knob and looped handles, but this sports a unique light gray interior. The 6.75-quart oval is large enough for roasting chicken or browning pork shoulder, just be sure to wipe down the exterior before placing in the oven. Speaking of, this comes in beautiful bright matte colors with occasional limited edition designs.

Emile Henry 4.2-Quart Round Stewpot Dutch Oven

Emile Henry's 4.2-quart Dutch oven is not exactly a dupe for Le Creuset since it's made from lighter ceramic instead of cast iron, but it is French and more versatile. Since this doesn't have a metal interior, it can handle being frozen as well as being on the grill, with even heat distribution no matter how you're cooking your meal. This doesn't come in as many colors as our other recommendations, but if you want a lighter Dutch oven, this is the one for you.

Why Take Our Word For It?

Siobhan Wallace is our senior commerce editor and has wanted a Le Creuset Dutch oven for decades. But until she wins the lottery, you'll find her 6-quart Lodge (in Island Spice Red) over her favorite burner.