The Best Alternatives to Le Creuset
Procook Vs Le Creuset, Denby Vs Le Creuset and More Le Creuset alternatives!
Le Creuset is a top tier French cookware brand that is world renowned for its colourful cast-iron cookware. The pots and pans that Le Creuset produce are some of the very best in world that one is able to purchase. Their durability, reliability and quality are next level and they even boast a white enamel coating that stops food from sticking or odours from staining.
If you are in the market to purchase one, check out our Le Creuset buying guide.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There is one problem when it comes to Le Creuset and one reason why you would look for a Le Creuset alternative.
And that problem is the price.
Now it’s true when they say you get what you pay for. But in some cases, you just don’t have the cash to fork out for a Le Creuset cast iron pan, especially when there are just as reliable le creuset alternatives on the market.
To help you guys out, we have put together a list of similar to le Creuset cookware that will not break the bank. It’s worth noting that whilst these products may not reach the out of this world heights that Le Creuset achieves with their products, they will still do a damn good job when it comes to performance in the kitchen. Discover the very best Le Creuset alternatives today!
We independently research, test, and recommend the best products just for you. In order to keep this site going, we may receive commissions on some of the purchases made from the links below.
1. Staub
Staub was designed and produced in 1974 by Francis Staud. The first piece, a cocotte or coquelle, Dutch oven to you or I, was a cast-iron dish covered with double-glazed enamel.
Since its founding, Staub has gone from strength to strength and its quality is preached by some of the top chefs from around the world.
Staub is a true le creuset alternative that you can rely on.
Pros:
- Like Le Creuset, Staub is handmade in France
Francis Staub instilled strict oversight and quality standards - Available in several colours including Cherry Red
- It boasts a black matte enamelled interior that does not stain
- This same enamelled interior is more effective at browning meat evenly
- The Staub is generally slightly cheaper than Le Creuset
- Regularly on sale
- A tight-fitting lid to maintain heat inside and reduces evaporation.
- Complete lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Although cheaper than Le Creuset, it’s still quite expensive.
- The dark enamel makes it difficult to observe the cooking process.
- Cleaning is made more difficult due to spikes under the lid.
- Quite heavy, heavier than Le Creuset in fact.
- Handles are smaller and less accessible.
2. Lodge
Originally established by a one Joseph Lodge in 1896, Lodge is known all over the world for producing some of the highest-quality cast iron cookware you can buy right now. With over 118 years of experience, the family-owned company based in Tennessee is the only cast-iron manufacturer left in the US.
Its legacy of producing quality products and dedication to improving their own manufacturing methods have meant that this company have survived 2 world wars and the great depression!
Lodges’ cast iron pots and pans provide picture-perfect heat distribution and retention. The heat spreads quickly across the bottom and sides of the material and it will stay hot for a prolonged period of time.
Lodges products are incredibly versatile and can be utilized when searing, roasting, baking, braising or broiling.
With an easy-clean promise and a lifetime guarantee, you simply cannot go wrong with one of Lodges products as an alternative to Le Creuset.
Pros:
- Online reviews consider it more if not the same Le Creuset in terms of durability
- Much cheaper than Le Creuset
- Light coloured interior enamel so you can observe the cooking process.
- Handles are roomy and easily graspable
- Perfectly rounded interior
- Produced independently by a company based in the U.S.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- Unfortunately, their enamelled products are now made in China
- Only around 5 colours available to purchase
- The Light-colored interior can stain
- Quite heavy compared to Le Creuset
3. Von Shef
Von Shef is widely known for creating some great kitchen necessities and great prices. They have created some lookalike Le Creuset dishes that could act as a more affordable alternative to its French counterpart.
The Von Shef Cast Iron casserole dishes come in 2 sizes and is available in a handful of colours, including the stunning Red Ombre.
Pros:
- Much more affordable than Le Creuset
- Well made product for the price
- White enamel interior to observe the cooking process
Cons:
- Very heavy.
- Warranty is only 2 years
- Handles are slightly smaller than the those of the Le Creuset dish.
4. ProCook
Procook has been around for more than 20 years now and in that time they have produced some great quality, yet affordable cast iron products.
Their cast iron cookware is known for its quality in both finish and performance. They really pride themselves of producing some top the of line cookware for affordable prices so that anyone can enjoy the art of cooking.
One notable thing about the ProCook cast iron cookware is the dimples on their lids. These dimples ensure optimum moisture retention throughout the cooking process, from start to finish! A true Le Creuset alternative!
Pros:
- Large Handles
- Affordable
- Self-basting lid
- 25 Year Guarantee
Cons:
- Dark Enamel so you cannot observe the cooking process
- Not a lifetime warranty
5. Denby
Denby has been around since 1809 so they know a thing or two about kitchenware. Their great quality cast iron cookware is energy efficient as it heats up fast and stays hotter for much longer.
Their cookware is suitable for all oven and hob types, including the relatively new induction. By designing their products to have integrated basting rings, they have ensured that any food you cook is kept succulent.
Whilst it may not have as many colours as the Le Creuset, the Denby Cast Iron cookware comes in some great looking styles. This includes the eye-catching pomegranate and the subtle halo.
Pros:
- Easily maintains heat
- Easy-grip handles
- Dishwasher Safe
- Comes with a recipe book
Cons:
- Reports of some chipping early on during use
- Not as good overall quality as the Le Creuset.
Conclusion - - There are some great alternatives to Le Creuset!
So as you have just read, there are some excellent cast iron cookware providers out there if you are not looking to splash the cash on a Le Creuset.
If you, after reading this, you have decided to bite the bullet and invest in the premium french brand, then feel free to check out our complete buyer’s guide to Le Creuset.
Andy
Ever since I started cooking I’ve been fascinated by how different people’s techniques are and how they best utilise the ingredients around them. Even the person living next door will have their own unique way of frying an egg or cooking a salmon fillet.
This fascination led me on a journey across the globe to discover the countless practices and traditions the world of cooking has to offer. I thought you’d enjoy and find value in sharing that journey with me so I created Cooked Best!