The Le Creuset Alternative That's Under $100 And Nearly Identical

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Le Creuset is the name in the enamel cast iron game. Unfortunately, the French-Belgian gold standard in colorful cookware also happens to be a bit expensive. A Le Creuset 5.5 quart enameled cast iron signature round Dutch oven in signature "Flame" orange can cost a staggering sum of around $400, even on Amazon.

Perhaps a high price point can be expected for high-quality Dutch ovens, French ovens, and all manner of cookery and casseroles forged in literal flames and sand. Le Creuset has been very popular with celebrity chefs (including Julia Child), and home cooks the world over since 1925. Even vintage Le Creuset pots are very valuable. Still, there are some alternatives that can at least slightly compete with the supposed GOAT in the enameled cook pot game, for far less than the usual prices.

Regardless of the name Le Creuset being branded on a Dutch oven lid or not, enameled cast iron isn't exactly cheap. Part of what makes these pots expensive is the fact that they are built to last many years (much like surprisingly collectible cast iron skillets) and made to cook or bake many dishes. These top alternative selections come with a number of five-star reviews, with highlights of quality within those reviews. All new models listed cost under $100. While they may look the part of a Le Creuset pot and mostly act the same as a Le Creuset pot, key weaknesses in comparison may still exist.

These alternatives are in a shade close to "Flame," Le Creuset's first color. Different colors can be pricier, especially depending on the season of purchase. Americans spend plenty on Black Friday, which may be the most cost-effective time to purchase a new Le Creuset or cheaper alternatives.

The Overmont enameled cast iron Dutch oven in "Pumpkin" orange is $69.99 on Amazon, and $47.49 during Black Friday sales. The Dutch oven has over 7,000 reviews, with 86% at five stars. Customers have left positive ratings for the item, citing its effectiveness in cooking stews, roasts, and baking bread. The few negative reviews warn of the enamel easily chipping.

The 1.75 quart Le Creuset enameled cast iron signature saucepan in "Flame" is $234.95 on Amazon. The site also sells a similar 1-quart Leonyo saucepan with lid in "Red" for only $35.99. It has over nearly 200 reviews, with 78% at five stars. Customers are fans of the pot's size and performance, but some do note issues with rust. Finally, the 9" Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Iron Handle Skillet in "Flame" is $184.95 on Amazon. Meanwhile, the 10" Tramontina Bestow Enameled Cast Iron Skillet with Lid in "Red" is only $41.97 on Amazon. The item has over 1,500 reviews, with 74% at five stars. Customers have shouted out the quality of this pan, its color, and its durability. It works on glass stovetops, but sometimes does have issues with enamel chipping.

One of the best aspects of enameled cast iron is the length of time it lasts. Much like collectible vintage Pyrex, much of Le Creuset can be used forever, rather than just collected to dazzle the eye. No one needs big bucks and an auction house to scoop up this highly collectible kitchen item. They just need time, patience, and access to some resale options.

Learn the best time and day of the week to shop the thrift store nearby to look for cast-off cast iron. Moving isn't cheap, and these heavy pieces of cookware may often get left behind to save a buck in shipping. Research how to treat older pieces of enameled cast iron and become a restoration wonder. Or, simply keep an eye out for a quality piece and snap it up for essentially pennies on the dollar, give or take signs of use. Sometimes, cast iron cookware is also being sold by moving friends or on resale sites like Facebook Marketplace.

It may also be worthwhile to connect with older family or friends who find the weight of their own beloved enameled cast iron cookware a little much to deal with. Perhaps a trade can be organized between something the Le Creuset owner needs and what the Le Creuset wanter desires. Good cookware is an investment, and good pieces tend to stick around. Not everything needs to be bought new to continue that investment.