STAUB cast iron is expensive because it is entirely manufactured in France using premium raw materials and rigorous, artisan-level quality control. The high price tag reflects its exceptional engineering and specialized manufacturing process.
Staub cookware is generally worth the premium if you are a frequent home cook looking for a durable, heirloom-quality piece. However, because prices range from $$150 to over $$600, whether it's a good investment depends on your budget and cooking habits.
Founded in 1974, Staub's first product was its enameled cast iron Dutch oven, or cocotte (which translates to casserole). Often recognized for its sleek, timeless styling, the Alsatian cookware is also known for its durability, quality, and lifespan.
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.
Yes, Staub is generally considered just as good as—and in some ways, even better than—Le Creuset. Both are premium French brands offering lifetime warranties and heirloom-quality enameled cast iron, but they cater to slightly different cooking styles and preferences.
When deciding between Staub and Lodge, consider your budget, desired style, and Dutch oven features. Staub works well for operators looking for durable construction and moisture control. Lodge, however, offers an affordable alternative with classic designs best suited for all-purpose cooking and baking.
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.
The most sought-after cast iron skillets fall into three distinct categories: premium modern artisan pans, luxurious enameled options, and elusive vintage "holy grail" collectibles.
In the context of cookware, a "#1 cast iron" typically refers to two different things depending on whether you are looking at modern or vintage pans:
Finding the "number one" set depends on your cooking style, but the All-Clad D3 10-Piece consistently earns the title of Best Overall by experts for its unrivaled heat distribution and durability.
Staub makes a large variety of enameled cast iron cookware. They are best known for their cocotte (French Oven). Staub has a wide range of ceramics available that include bakeware and a selection of ceramic bowls. Staub ceramics are currently made in China.
Staub (engl. dust, German and Jewish (Ashkenazic): from Middle High German stoup German Staub "dust" a nickname for a miller) is a German-language surname.
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.
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.
Yes, Staub cookware is generally cheaper in France than in the US. Base retail prices are often slightly lower, and VAT (Value Added Tax) is already included. You can save even more if you are a non-EU resident by claiming a VAT tax refund on your purchase.
Avoid traditional non-stick pans with worn coatings or synthetic "forever chemicals" (PFAS), as well as unlined copper and reactive aluminum. Scratched or overheated pans release toxic fumes or leach heavy metals into your food.
Avoid cooking highly acidic foods, delicate fish, strong-smelling dishes, and sticky foods (like eggs) in cast iron. These can strip your pan’s seasoning, leach metallic flavors into your food, or leave behind lingering odors.
The "best" cast iron depends on whether you want traditional, seasoned bare iron or low-maintenance enameled cast iron.
Yes, you can absolutely cook eggs in cast iron. In fact, it is an excellent method for achieving crispy edges on fried eggs and fluffy frittatas. A well-seasoned skillet prevents sticking and avoids chemical coatings.
The "best" cast iron brand depends on your needs, but Lodge is the undisputed top pick for affordability and durability. For premium unseasoned pans, Smithey Ironware and Lancaster Cast Iron are leading choices. If you want low-maintenance enameled cast iron, Le Creuset and Staub set the gold standard.
You only need to oil (or "season") your cast iron pan after every wash to prevent rust. This is a quick wipe-down. For deep, baked-on re-seasoning, you only need to do that every 6 to 12 months or if the surface starts looking dull and food begins to stick.
Yes, it is completely safe to use mild dish soap on your cast iron. The old rule of never using soap is a myth from generations ago when soaps contained harsh, abrasive lye. Modern dish soaps are gentle and won't strip or harm the pan's polymerized seasoning.
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.
Yes, Staub is typically cheaper than Le Creuset, though both are premium French enameled cast-iron brands with similar price ranges. While base prices vary by retailer, Staub generally costs slightly less across comparable standard-sized Dutch ovens (cocottes) and skillets.
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.