Yes, Staub is slightly heavier than Le Creuset. Because Staub uses a denser cast iron alloy and has a thicker construction, a comparable Staub pot will typically weigh about 1 𝟏 pound more than its Le Creuset counterpart.
Sure it would be nice to see a big heavy well-seasoned black skillet up in there. But did anyone expect that? So Yes, Le Creuset is beautiful but it is not merely performative cookware." According to The New York Times, Meghan is frustrated by accusations that she is unrelatable and out of touch.
Staub or Le Creuset? In terms of performance, these two brands are more similar than they are different. So the choice between Staub and Le Creuset really comes down to personal preference around look and feel.
The good news is that the interior enamel routinely tests as lead-free and cadmium-free. As for Staub, its Dutch ovens are made using lead- and cadmium-safe enamel that complies with EU and US (California Prop 65) regulations.
The most popular and highly recommended budget alternatives to Le Creuset are Lodge, Crockpot, and Tramontina. These brands offer durable enameled cast iron that handles braising, baking, and stewing beautifully, but at a fraction of the cost.
A "poor man's Dutch oven" is a budget-friendly DIY hack that emulates a traditional cast-iron Dutch oven. For baking bread, it involves taking two identical metal bread pans, placing one on top of the other (inverted) to trap steam, and securing the edges with Heavy Duty Metal Binder Clips.
Tramontina's cast-iron Dutch ovens are now available at Costco in a budget-friendly bundle—two sizes for just $70. With enameled interiors, oven-safe construction, and rave reviews, they offer a great alternative to pricier brands like Le Creuset.
Ceramic-coated cookware is generally considered non-toxic. It is typically made from a base material (like aluminum or stainless steel) that is coated with a layer of ceramic.
Whether Staub is "better" than Lodge depends on whether you are comparing their enameled or bare cast iron. Staub is a premium, French-made brand, while Lodge is an American heritage brand famous for accessible, utilitarian cast iron.
The "least toxic" Dutch ovens are made from raw cast iron or enameled cast iron. These materials are naturally free of PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium, ensuring no harmful chemicals leach into your food.
Yes, Staub is generally worth the money, particularly if you find it on sale. As a premium French brand, it offers lifelong durability and superior cooking performance that casual cooks and professionals love.
Enameled cast iron is a healthy and safe choice for cooking. The enamel coating creates a barrier between your food and the raw cast iron, so you don't have to worry about excess iron leaching into acidic or wet dishes.
Le Creuset and Staub Dutch ovens are iconic. Both have been around for a long time: Le Creuset since 1925 and Staub since 1974.
Harry later recalled the moment he met his brother's future wife in his 2023 memoir Spare, noting that he "liked" her and that she could be described in three simple words: carefree, sweet, and kind.
The delicate spring kitchenware normally runs for $315, but now you can get a pretty convincing dupe at Aldi for just $19.99! Aldi is selling a Crofton Dutch Oven in four gorgeous spring colors: burgundy, lilac, mint, and pink. The top lid has a similar floral design as the Le Creuset, and it holds 20-quarts.
Neither brand is objectively "better" overall; they simply excel in different areas. Staub is superior for searing meat and handling high-heat baking, while Le Creuset is better for soups, stews, and everyday handling.
Staub runs hotter and is heavier overall, so it retains heat more aggressively. While some pros might include better caramelization and deeper browning, cons might include it being a little harder to get your dishes “just right,” especially if you're new to cast iron and temperature control.
The best cast iron skillet depends on your needs, but Lodge is widely considered the best overall for its durability, affordability, and pre-seasoned surface. For premium, smooth-milled pans, Smithey Ironware is a top choice, while Le Creuset is the gold standard for enameled cast iron.
To protect your health, avoid cookware that leaches heavy metals, contains toxic coatings, or breaks down under heat. Prioritize safer everyday alternatives like cast iron, carbon steel, and glass.
In family kitchens, non-stick pans are the first choice for many housewives and cooking enthusiasts because of their easy cleaning and anti-stick properties. However, professional chefs rarely use non-stick pans in kitchens, preferring stainless steel, cast iron or carbon steel pans.
Yes, Staub ceramic bakeware and dinnerware are non-toxic. They are crafted from high-quality, dense clay and coated with a safe, durable glass-porcelain enamel that is free of PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium.
If you want the beautiful, heirloom quality of Le Creuset without the premium price tag, Staub PureWow Guide is the best overall upgrade, Lodge Reddit Thread is the most affordable, and Caraway Serious Eats Review is the top lightweight non-toxic alternative.
If you spot a price tag that ends in . 97, then you might be about to score a sweet deal. This price tag means that Costco has decided to lower the price of a particular item. This might be because they have too many in stock or want to make room for something new.
Le Creuset Shallow Casserole size guide
22cm/1.4L - serves 1-2 people or works as a side serving dish. 26cm/2.2L - serves around 2-4 people, so it's perfect for a couple dining together or a dinner party with other dishes.