Dutch ovens have long been a favorite cooking tool for home cooks, and there's no reason why they shouldn't be in your kitchen as well.
What began as a simple way to cook food over an open fire has morphed into one of the most versatile tools you can have in your culinary arsenal.
From slow-cooked stews and baked casseroles to steamed clams and breads that come out with the perfect crust and crumb, this is one pan that will never run out of uses!
How We Choose The Best for You
You want a Dutch oven that can handle all your baking needs, but you don't want to spend hours researching different brands and models.
We've done the hard work for you by checking out the most popular options on the market today.
Our team has evaluated each one based on consumer reviews, performance and durability so you can find the best dutch oven for bread for your kitchen.
Each product below was independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to fiddle with, but all opinions in this article are our own. IncredibleRatings is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program that allows us to earn money linking to Amazon.com and associated websites. When you click on or make a purchase through an affiliate link on IncredibleRatings, we might get a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Why We Chose It
The Lodge L8DD3 Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven is a great choice for people looking for an affordable double Dutch oven that still has most of the features you'd expect from a higher-end model.
It's not quite as heavy as some other models on this list, but it does have very basic features like pre-seasoned cooking surfaces and a 10.25 inch skillet lid.
The heat retention and distribution of the Lodge L8DD3 Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven is good, and it does get hot in no time at all when used on an outdoor grill - although we don't recommend using it outdoors too often due to its susceptibility to rusting over time.
Overall, while the Lodge L8DD3 Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven isn't quite as well designed or finished as other models on our list, but it does come at a much lower price point than those more expensive options making this a very good option for anyone who wants double ovens without breaking the bank.
What You Should Know
For those looking for versatility, the Lodge L8DD3 Dutch Oven lid converts to a 10.25 inch skillet, making it exceptionally convenient for your everyday cooking needs.
It is pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil for your convenience.
This pan can be used in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire.
Plus, if you have an induction cooktop, you won't need to worry about using this dutch oven; it works great on these types of cooktops too!
The dutch oven is also dishwasher safe, which is nice if you're worried about spending too much time cleaning your cast iron pots and pans with only so much time in the day.
With all this in mind, you’ll also be getting quality craftsmanship when you purchase your Lodge skillet - because they have been family-owned since 1896 and every piece is proudly made in the USA.
Why We Chose It
Gather together and enjoy a home-cooked meal with the Lodge EC7OD13 Enameled Cast Iron Oval Dutch Oven!
This 7-quart enamel Dutch oven is nothing short of perfect, combining form, function and beautiful design to make memorable meals that your friends and family will love.
Prepare delicious dishes on any cooking surface - from gas and electric to induction cooktops - or get creative in the oven for extraordinary results.
The porcelain enamel coating on cast iron penetrates deep into the surface of the pan, providing superior heat distribution along with an unmatched level of durability.
Best of all, you can use this pan to marinate, refrigerate and freeze meals days ahead of time and enjoy them at a later date.
What You Should Know
When it comes to dutch oven bread baking, you'll be hard-pressed to find a Dutch oven that competes with the Lodge 7 Quart Oval Oyster Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven.
Not only is the smooth glass surface perfect for sourdough bread baking that'll be great in sandwiches, but it can also handle temperatures up to 500ºF so it can be used for more than just bread!
Moreover, its large 7 quart capacity gives ample space for your loaves to rise and expand.
Whether you're making a classic sourdough loaf or something more creative and experimental, this is a great choice for those looking for delicious homemade bread.
Why We Chose It
The Uno Casa Dutch oven is one of the best cast iron cookware sets you can buy.
It's easy to use and it comes in two different colors so you can find one that goes with your kitchen décor.
It's made from high-quality cast iron which means this cookware won't warp or bend easily, even when using high heat settings.
The handles are also wider than most other cast iron pans, making them more comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
The black enamel finish helps prevent food from sticking to the pan, and you won't need to season this cast iron pot before using it for the first time.
What You Should Know
With its 6 qt capacity, 11 inch diameter and 14.5 lbs weight, this Impact-Proof Enameled Pot is not only sturdy and chip-resistant but also designed to survive any cooktop or oven! This Dutch oven comes with a stainless steel lid knob for easy handling, two silicone handle covers for added safety and a silicone mat to protect surface from the heat.
To make the most of your impact-proof enamel pot, take advantage of the free recipe e-book that accompanies it - you can use it to create everything from vibrant casseroles to delicious roasts and stews!
So go ahead - try out this Dutch oven today and watch as your best dishes come alive!
Why We Chose It
The Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Round Dutch Oven is our pick for the best high end cast iron dutch oven because it's one of the most versatile options out there.
It can cook a wide variety of meals, from baking bread to roasting vegetables and cooking meat in the oven.
You'll be able to cook plenty of food at once with this model, which makes it great if you're entertaining friends or family often.
It's heavy too, weighing just under two pounds making it one of the heaviest pots we looked at.
The enamel finish on this pot is smooth and shiny with no visible blemishes or imperfections – something that isn't always the case with cheaper models.
While we wish it was dishwasher safe instead of hand wash only, all in all this is an excellent cast iron dutch oven for baking bread.
What You Should Know
The Le Creuset Dutch oven is one of the best-selling cast iron Dutch ovens in the world and for good reason.
It's durable, versatile, and beautiful to behold.
This large dutch oven can hold up to five pounds of food making it perfect for braising or roasting larger cuts of meat and vegetables.
The enamel coating makes cleaning this cast iron pot easy as long as you don't use harsh abrasives on its surface.
We recommend using a nylon scrubbing pad instead.
The lid seals tightly with an ergonomically designed knob that's safe at any oven temperature from -40°F to 500°F.
However, given its high price, and if you are only using it for bread, it is just not necessary.
Why We Chose It
The AmazonBasics 6-quart Dutch oven is cast iron, which means it's sturdy and durable. It also means it doesn't get as hot as other enameled cast-iron cookware models on this list.
The lid has a tight fit to keep in heat, and the handle has convenient grips so you can easily carry this pot from the stovetop to your table or countertop.
This model is best suited for casual use, because its nonstick surface doesn't allow for easy food release during frying or cooking meat over high heat.
However, if you're looking for an affordable option with good durability and don't mind that it doesn't have the most advanced nonstick surface options out there, then we think this is one of the best Dutch ovens available right now.
What You Should Know
With an Amazon Basics Enameled Dutch oven, you'll be ready to cook up a feast for the whole family.
This medium-sized 6-quart Dutch oven is the ideal option for making soup, frying chicken, and baking your favorite dishes. Its enameled surface makes it easy to clean while being tough enough to withstand temperatures of up to 400F.
The dimensions make it large enough to feed 4-6 people comfortably yet not so big that it takes up too much room in your kitchen cabinets.
Given its versatility and durability, this particular Dutch oven is sure to become your go-to essential in no time.
Why We Chose It
The Staub Cast Iron 4-qt Round Cocotte is the most expensive option on this list of best dutch oven for bread, but it's also our top pick.
It's durable, easy to use, and easy to clean—and that means you can be sure your pots will last a lifetime.
This four-quart cocotte is made from heavy cast iron that won't warp or discolor over time. It is also a great size to bake bread in.
The enameled ceramic finish extends to the lid and handles for scratch resistance and nonstick cooking with wooden or silicone utensils.
We love the self basting spikes on the lid for continuous distribution of juices back onto food, which results in moist meat with flavorful browning throughout.
And we love how beautiful this pot looks as much as we do its performance chops.
What You Should Know
The Staub Cast Iron 4-qt Round Cocotte is the perfect piece of cookware for any kitchen!
Its oven safe rating of 900F without a lid and 500F with a lid make it an ideal option for all types of cooking.
The smooth enamel bottom also works on all stovetops, including gas, electric, glass ceramic, induction and halogen.
Not only that but this top-of-the-line piece of cookware was made in France and developed in conjunction with France’s most celebrated chef Paul Bocuse – making it an absolute must have.
To top it off, the Staub Cast Iron 4-qt Round Cocotte is also dishwasher safe (although hand washing is recommended). With such quality materials and craftsmanship, you can't go wrong!
Best Dutch Oven for Bread Buying Guide
Many people are intimidated by the thought of baking bread, but it's really not that hard!
The truth is, making your own bread from scratch can be a lot cheaper and healthier than buying store-bought bread. Not to mention, it tastes a million times better.
Our guide to the best Dutch oven for bread will walk you through everything you need to know about this essential kitchen tool.
What is a Dutch Oven?
A Dutch oven is a large, heavy pot made of cast iron, steel, or aluminum that is designed for slow-cooking foods at low temperatures.
A dutch oven is definitely a must-have for any home cook. This highly versatile pot can be used to bake, simmer, braise, roast, sear, or even deep fry.
Whether you want to roast a whole chicken or make delicate sauces, this all-purpose pot comes in both larger and smaller sizes to meet all your needs.
Its unique shape and durable construction make it an excellent choice for preparing any type of dish.
Dutch ovens are often used in outdoor settings due to their ability to retain heat over extended periods of time without the use of electricity or gas.
Get one for your kitchen today and discover why the dutch oven is the jack of all trades!
Types of Dutch Ovens
Dutch ovens are well-loved kitchen items because they transfer and retain heat very well, making them perfect for a variety of cooking tasks like baking bread or roasting meats.
Depending on what you’re interested in cooking, there are two main types to choose from: raw cast iron or enamel coated.
Cast Iron
For those looking for a reliable, multi-purpose cooking tool, cast-iron Dutch ovens are far and away one of the best options.
These heirloom pieces can last your family a lifetime with proper care and maintenance given their durability and heat resistance.
Furthermore, they offer great heat distribution while also allowing you to cook all types of foods at extreme temperatures as desired.
Whether you need a new or vintage Dutch oven, make sure it has a tight-fitting lid when cooking breads as this is essential for perfect results.
Many of these versatile tools come pre-seasoned, but if they don’t they must be seasoned so they don’t rust and have their non-stick cooking performance maximized.
Enameled Coated
Enameled coated cast iron Dutch ovens are ideal for greater heat resistance, superior non-stick performance, and stunning aesthetics.
Not only do these interesting cookware pieces stand out with their vibrant colors, but they can also hold up to high temperatures when needed.
They also have heavy lids that ensure a tight seal while cooking.
Not to mention, they are easy to clean, making even the most kitchen-challenged individuals able to maintain them. If you're looking for near-perfection in the kitchen arena, enameled coated cast iron Dutch ovens could be the choice for you!
Size
When it comes to baking bread, there is one definitive size dutch oven that is ideal for the job.
A 5-qt Dutch oven allows for any size of dough, providing plenty of room for expansion and ample headspace. This makes it suitable for baking a variety of shapes, such as round boules or oval loaves.
For those who are planning on using their dutch ovens only for bread, anything larger than 5 quarts would be unnecessary.
Not only does a smaller oven take up less storage room but it requires less steam to heat up which can result in faster and more efficient bakes.
Plus, they are much easier to store than other dutch ovens for bread due to their lighter weight!
Best Dutch Oven For Bread FAQs
There's a lot of questions about baking bread in a Dutch oven. We've answered some of the most Frequently Asked Questions below to give you peace of mind when ordering your new pan!
What is the best dutch oven for bread baking?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a dutch oven for bread baking. The size of the pot is important, as you'll want one large enough to accommodate the dough as it rises. You'll also want a pot with a tight-fitting lid so that the steam created during baking can circulate and help to create a crispy crust. Some people prefer enameled dutch ovens because they don't need to be seasoned like cast iron pots do, but others argue that the enamel can chip and affect the flavor of the bread. Ultimately, it's up to personal preference. Some of our favorite dutch ovens for bread baking are made by Lodge, Le Creuset, and Staub.
How long should a dutch oven preheat before I start baking?
Preheat your Dutch oven for about 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit before you begin baking.
Is it okay to use a dutch oven on a gas stovetop?
Yes, dutch ovens can be used on gas stoves as long as they are set on low or medium heat settings.
Do I need to add oil when cooking in my dutch oven?
If you're baking bread in your Dutch oven, there's no need to add any oil since dough has enough fat content in it already. However, if you're roasting vegetables or meats, adding some oil will help enhance the flavor of your dish and will prevent sticking during cooking.
Can I use a dutch oven for deep frying foods?
Although dutch ovens can handle high temperatures, it is not recommended that you use them for deep frying due to safety reasons and potential fire hazards associated with hot oil spills and splatters.
Are there certain items that cannot be cooked in a dutch oven?
It is not recommended to cook delicate items such as fish fillets in a Dutch oven due to their tendency to stick and break apart during cooking.
Is it better to bake bread with the lid on or off?
It depends on the recipe. With some recipes, baking with the lid on will create a more moist and dense bread. With other recipes, baking with the lid off will create a crustier and drier bread. It's best to experiment to see which results you prefer.
What temperature should my dutch oven reach when baking bread?
Your dutch oven should reach between 375 - 425 degrees Fahrenheit when baking bread for optimal results .
Can I put my dutch over directly into an outdoor fire pit or open flame source ?
There's no definitive answer, as it depends on the type of dutch oven and the outdoor fire pit or open flame source. Some dutch ovens are made of cast iron, which can withstand high heat and is safe for use in an open flame or outdoor fire pit. Other dutch ovens have an enameled coating and will crack if placed over an outdoor fire pit.
Should I cover my dutch oven while cooking ?
Yes , covering your dutch oven while cooking helps keep the heat inside so food cooks evenly throughout.
What is The Best Dutch Oven for Bread for You?
The best dutch oven for bread is one with good insulation so the heat stays inside.
It should also be made of durable materials that won't warp or scratch easily, and come in different sizes and colors to suit your needs.
Lastly, make sure it comes with instructions on how to properly use and care for it so you can get many years of use out of it!
Any of the dutch ovens on our list will work for you, but our top pick is the The Staub Cast Iron 4-qt Round Cocotte due to its ability to retain heat, durable construction, and even cooking, as well as its high customer ratings.
With all these features combined together, you'll have an amazing baking experience every time!
And don’t forget – you can always click the buttons above to check prices.
Happy Baking!
Need something to store your bread in to keep it fresh? Check out these articles and our top picks for bread storage containers:
Jocelyn
