For nearly 90 years, Le Creuset cookware has been handcrafted in northern France. The French are recognized for producing high-quality cookware, but it generally comes at a high cost.
Why is Le Creuset so pricey, and is it really worth the money?
In this article, we’ll address those questions by looking at their enameled cookware and stainless steel choices, as well as providing some in-depth Le Creuset reviews.
Contents
- Is Le Creuset Worth It?
- Le Creuset Reviews
- 1. Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet 11.75”
- 2. Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Square Skillet Grill
- 3. Le Creuset Cerise 16-piece Cookware Set
- 4. Le Creuset of America 5 Piece Signature Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Set
- 5. Le Creuset 10-Piece Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
- 6. Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Crepe Pan
- 7. Le Creuset Set Of 4 Mini Cocottes
- Le Creuset Care Tips
- Le Creuset FAQs
- Is Le Creuset Worth The Money?
- FAQs
- What is the downside of Le Creuset?
- Why is Le Creuset so much more expensive?
- Are Le Creuset casserole dishes worth the money?
- What is the big deal with Le Creuset?
- What is a cheaper alternative to Le Creuset?
- Is Le Creuset good for everyday use?
- What are the benefits of Le Creuset?
- How long will Le Creuset last?
- Do professional chefs use Le Creuset?
- Is Le Creuset really cast iron?
Is Le Creuset Worth It?
Le Creuset is a luxury product with a premium price tag, making it costly. If you’re ready to buy your one-and-only set of cookware for life, or if you’re weary of changing certain components, such as nonstick pans, this cookware is a terrific investment.
Le Creuset has multiple cookware lines. While they are best known for its enameled cast iron in a variety of colors, Le Creuset also produces a range of nonstick pans, a stainless steel line, stoneware, and numerous culinary equipment designed to withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen.
This cookware is made to withstand a lot of usage. For dealing with big loads under high heat, several of the larger pans include auxiliary handles opposite the main handle.
Standalone items, like as their tea kettle, provide ample of distance between hot metal and handle clearance for cookers. Their stoneware French press coffeepot features an extra-large handle. Again, no charred knuckles!
Le Creuset Reviews
1. Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet 11.75”
Top Features
- The black enamel inside is more durable and stain resistant.
- Large looped assist handle for a secure grasp while lifting
- Dishwasher safe
- Pour spouts on two sides for drip-free pouring
This skillet from Le Creuset is composed of enameled cast iron. Unlike traditional cast iron pans, this one does not need seasoning. In fact, you won’t need much oil to keep it nonstick.
However, if you are accustomed to cooking with nonstick cookware, you will need to be patient and experiment. If this seems like too much work, this skillet may not be for you.
If food is clinging to this pan, it is most likely due to one of two factors.
- Your cooking temperature is very high. Because cast iron maintains heat efficiently, turn down your stove to save money on your electric or gas bill.
- You’re attempting to move food too quickly. To be honest, if you’ve never used cast iron cookware before, you may be better off borrowing a friend’s cast iron pan and learning with it before investing in this skillet.
If you’re ready to update your present pan, we believe the Le Creuset cast iron signature skillet is a terrific purchase that will endure if properly cared for. This pan is also included in our top cast iron skillet reviews and buying guide.
2. Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Square Skillet Grill
Top Features
- Because it is made of enameled cast iron, it warms evenly.
- The raised ridges in the base help fat to drain away from your meal.
- Helper handle for easy maneuvering
- Dishwasher safe
- Seasoning is not required with the black enamel finish.
If you don’t have an outside grill, the Le Creuset cast iron grill pan allows you to cook steaks with grill marks inside.
The grill markings are hammered into the bottom of this pan. The cast iron core will retain a lot of heat, so brown that steak!
While this skillet grill pan is not technically nonstick, the structure of the pan reduces the likelihood of sticking by preventing the meat from lying flat on the bottom of the pan.
The manufacturer does recommend that this pan be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Due to the danger of corrosion in high moisture settings, cast iron enthusiasts have probably learnt not to put cast iron in the dishwasher. However, since this pan’s whole surface is enameled, the danger is substantially minimized.
Fans of barbecuing or grilling will like this Le Crueset Cast Iron Signature Square Skillet Grill.
If your outside barbecue is broken or it’s too chilly to enjoy a decent grill, this skillet will easily deliver equivalent results on your kitchen cooktop.
3. Le Creuset Cerise 16-piece Cookware Set
Top Features
- Beautifully colored enamel on the outside
- Can be used with induction ovens
- All cast iron components feature expanded handles for easy grasp and transport.
This bundle should have you prepared for anything in the kitchen. Not only is it visually appealing, but it is also high-quality cookware that will help you produce delicious meals.
The set includes: 10.25-inch cast iron skillet; 1.75-quart cast iron saucepan and lid; 5.5-quart cast iron round Dutch oven with lid; 40quart stoneware rectangle dish with lid; 2.5-quart stoneware baker; 8-quart enameled steel stock pot with lid;5-piece silicone utensil set, and a cookbook!
Le Creuset Cookware combines the historic shape of Le Creuset with the convenience of current technologies.
Cooking with cast iron cookware is simplified by using an enamel cooking surface, which eliminates the need for seasoning.
Depending on the product, Le Creuset provides a number of warranties. A lifetime warranty indicates that they value customer happiness and stand behind their goods completely.
If you just need a few parts to get started, they also provide a smaller five-piece offering.
4. Le Creuset of America 5 Piece Signature Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Set
Top Features
- Chip and crack resistant exterior
- Larger handles distribute weight more evenly
- Lifetime warranty
- Even heat distribution and retention
Le Creuset enameled cookware is oven safe and comes with almost everything you need to prepare a tasty dinner with little cleanup. It is also crack and chip resistant, which helps to protect your cookware and stove.
While the Le Creuset cherry red color is fairly popular, they also offer various shades. Their eye-catching blue cookware is our personal favorite.
Le Creuset cookware is likely to be used many times each week (if not more) to prepare meals for your family. Unlike nonstick cookware, these plates, pots, and pans should last a long time if properly cared for.
5. Le Creuset 10-Piece Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Top Features
- Compatible with induction cooktops
- Resists oxidation and discoloration
- Ergonomic handle that stays cool
The Le Creuset stainless steel cookware set is constructed of fresh quality stainless steel and is suitable for practically every form of cooking, from searing to simmering.
This set is suitable for use with induction cookware. Its tri-ply design with an aluminum core aids in even heat dispersion.
Ergonomic handles are something you won’t find in many other sets. Handles that make your cookware simpler to lift and move reduce the strain on your wrists while cooking.
With less tension on your body, you are less likely to drop your pots and pans or have an accident.
Season your Le Creuset pots and pans like you would most stainless steel equipment. It’s also a good idea to allow your pan to thoroughly hot before adding food. This, together with butter or oil, will aid in the prevention of food sticking.
6. Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron Crepe Pan
Top Features
- Specially designed angled handle for easy grip
- Induction oven compatible
- Black enamel interior doesnt need seasoning
- Sloped sides for easy flipping
This pan will make preparing crepes a snap. It meets all of the criteria for superb crepes and, because to the cast iron core, is exceptionally heat resilient.
To safeguard your hands from the scorching stove, the handle is arched away from the flat pan.
This pan does not need a second handle. It weighs slightly under 5 pounds and comes with a batter spreader and a lifting tool for raising the crepe’s edges so it can cool.
Keep an eye on the crepes, flip them as soon as they’re stable, and never leave the pan alone.
In addition, a small layer of high temperature oil on the crepe pan before each application of batter will prevent the crepes from sticking.
The Le Crueset Enameled Cast Iron Crepe Pan is the ideal present for the crepe or pancake enthusiast in your life.
Nothing like a breakfast of sizzling pancakes filled with syrup and fruit; this pan assists any cook in creating delightful, flawless crepes.
7. Le Creuset Set Of 4 Mini Cocottes
Top Features
- Stoneware helps to keep temperatures even
- Stain, chip, fracture, and odor-resistant enamel finish
- Oven, freezer, microwave, broiler, and dishwasher safe
- All lids fit securely
- Loop handles on both sides
What exactly is a cocotte? As we learned in our Staub vs. Le Creuset comparison guide, cocotte is the French term for Dutch oven.
The Le Creuset French ovens are not only for cooking, but you can also serve on this fashionable object with its lovely exterior.
In contrast to a Dutch oven, which is usually made of bare cast iron, the Le Creuset cocotte has a particular enameled covering.
According to a Le Creuset official, French Oven is a descriptor that has traditionally been used to refer to higher-end enameled circular ovens made in France.
The cocotte is also lot lighter than a standard Dutch oven, making it much simpler to transport to various events, such as a picnic or a party.
The use of enamel on the internal surface of the cocotte generates an odor-resistant surface.
You may prepare everything from sides for beef stew one day to peach cobbler the next without worrying about residual scents in your cuisine. Of course, you must ensure that it has been well cleaned.
Le Creuset Care Tips
With a little care, Le Creuset cookware should endure for many years.
Critical factors include:
- If you nest these pans, the enamel will be damaged.
- Time: let these pans cool before cleaning
- Dishwasher: Stainless steel and certain cast iron are dishwasher safe. Before putting these pans in the dishwasher, carefully read the instructions.
- Nonstick Creuset, like many other nonstick items, cannot be used with metal equipment.
- When cleaning your enameled Le Creuset cookware, avoid using abrasive cleaning equipment.
Le Creuset FAQs
Why Is Le Creuset So Expensive?
When you first look at the price of Le Creuset cookware, you may be surprised, particularly if you anticipate it to be comparable to cookware from your local large box shop.
Labor is the price of hand-crafted cookware!
All of their cast iron cookware is created in Fresnoy-le-Grand, which is situated in northern France. Each component goes through a 12-step procedure to guarantee there are no faults in the final result, thus the production process involves a lot of human involvement.
This is comparable to All-Clad cookware produced in the United States. This additional work aids in the creation of higher-quality products, but it is also reflected in the price.
Many products have a lifetime or restricted lifetime guarantee. This may be worth the additional money on its own, but you must decide for yourself.
Is Le Creuset Dishwasher Safe?
Le Creuset’s stainless steel cookware may safely be washed in the dishwasher. Nonstick cookware owners are advised to avoid using the dishwasher to avoid rubbing the pan against an abrasive surface, which may harm the nonstick coating.
The dishwasher is not advised for the enameled cookware offered from Le Creuset. Allow your enameled cookware to cool before cleaning it. Because the cast iron core of these pans retains heat, immersing a heated pan in water may cause the enamel covering to shatter, ultimately damaging the pan.
If food becomes caught on the enamel surface, immerse the dish for up to 20 minutes and scrub away any burnt on food using a gentle brush or nylon pad.
Can Le Creuset Go In An Oven?
Cast iron and stainless steel from Le Creuset may be simply transferred from burner to oven. Here, their well-made stainless steel goods truly shine.
With a steady hand, you can effortlessly shift from stovetop to oven owing to the carefully positioned assistant handles; large dishes or items with a high liquid content may be securely moved according to clever design.
It is vital not to shock the enameled Le Creuset cookware since it contains a cast iron core.
If you have a pan kept in the refrigerator for future baking, let it get to room temperature before putting it in your hot oven, or set it in the oven while it preheats.
Any damage to the enamel covering will ultimately harm your pan, so use caution with these lovely pans!
Does Le Creuset Cookware Need Seasoning?
Le Creuset enameled cookware has pre-seasoned cooking surfaces that do not need any further preparation.
These surfaces are gently pebbled to lessen the likelihood of food sticking and will acquire a layer of seasoned oil over time.
It should be noted that cast iron retains heat well, thus use high heat tolerant oils like vegetable oil and peanut oil in these pans.
Avoid acidic foods like tomato-based stews or soups; the acid will eat away at whatever flavor you’ve added over time.
How Do I Clean Le Creuset Enamel?
Anything abrasive, such as harsh sponges, stiff brushes, or steel wool, may harm the enamel coating of your cookware.
Here are some cleaning methods you may use to make your Le Creuset cookware clean.
- Make an attempt to utilize a sponge and water. If this does not work, go to the next step.
- Try filling your cookware with water, bringing it to a boil, letting it cool, and then repeating the sponge treatment.
- Use a dishwasher according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- If all else fails, you may need to buy an enamel cleanser.
Other ways include baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. However, their instructions usually ask for the mixture to be boiled.
We don’t know whether the gases and vapors emitted are hazardous, therefore we don’t advocate it.
Furthermore, the four solutions we’ve outlined should be able to handle almost any issue you come across.
What Is The Le Creuset Lifetime Warranty?
Le Creuset has been around for over a century. Their tough and long-lasting goods can withstand a lot of abuse.
It should be noted that certain nonstick product line consumers have had difficulty obtaining servicing and replacement under the lifetime warranty plan.
The directions for using their nonstick cookware are rather precise. Users are advised to use these pans on moderate or medium-low heat settings to avoid damaging the nonstick surface.
Consider investing in their stainless or even better enameled cast iron items for lengthy usage if you need to shift your pans from stovetop to oven or if you prefer dealing with hot oils and surfaces.
Is Le Creuset Worth The Money?
Although Le Creuset cookware is more costly than other manufacturers, the firm obviously invests in the production process and believes in their goods.
Purchasing cookware from a brand you are unfamiliar with, on the other hand, might be incredibly scary. This often brings us back to the same old things that we aren’t really content with.
If you like the concept of buying one item as a trial, we believe theLe Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet 11.75is worth considering. However, for those seeking to invest in a few items, we recommend the Le Creuset of America 5 Piece Signature Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Set.
If you’re still undecided, try replacing one item you use often with a new one. Replacing a frying pan or skillet, for example, is a wonderful place to start since most of us use frying pans on a daily basis.
This will assist you in getting a sense of the new brand. If you don’t like it, you may always give it to a family member or friend.
FAQs
What is the downside of Le Creuset?
When it’s not on sale, a 2-quart pot costs $420. Light interiors are readily scraped by metal instruments and stained by food (though some stains may be removed with thorough washing).Expensive — the price of a 5 1
Why is Le Creuset so much more expensive?
High-quality materials are used by Le Creuset. Their cookware is built for performance, durability, dependability, and safety, with broad handles and knobs for simple use. Le Creuset’s almost 100-year history of developing its proven revolutionary designs and manufacturing expertise is backed by lifetime guarantees.
Are Le Creuset casserole dishes worth the money?
With this flexible dish, you can even keep meals in the fridge or freezer. So, if you need a casserole dish but are wondering whether Le Creuset is worth it, the answer is yes!
What is the big deal with Le Creuset?
Le Creuset has a no-flaws policy.
Each pot is examined by 15 different persons before it is judged fit for sale, and around 30% of the company’s items are rejected due to flaws. Frequently, the items are melted down and the iron is recycled to make new (perfect) products.
What is a cheaper alternative to Le Creuset?
ProCook. ProCook has long been a trusted brand for many types of kitchen equipment, and although it may not be as inexpensive as certain high-end homeware companies, its cookware is much more economical than names like Le Creuset and Staub.
Is Le Creuset good for everyday use?
“It absolutely is!” exclaims Lahaina, a veteran Le Creuset customer who can’t live without the brand’s iconic skillet. “I use mine on my stovetop every day to cook eggs or stir-fry.” “I do the majority of my cooking in this one pan.”
What are the benefits of Le Creuset?
The unparalleled brilliant enamel coating of Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron is very simple to use and clean and is designed for daily endurance. It does not need to be seasoned, is resistant to adhering and staining, and is dishwasher safe. It will become a treasured favorite for generations with a limited lifetime warranty.
How long will Le Creuset last?
How Long Will My Le Creuset Last? Le Creuset is built to endure a lifetime. Indeed, if you handle Le Creuset with the utmost care, it will outlast you. Although this cookware will not survive forever, many believe it will last 1,000 years or more.
Do professional chefs use Le Creuset?
Do chefs make use of Le Creuset? Chefs only utilize the Le Creuset brand of cast-iron cookware. The pots and pans are enameled with a colorful finish, and many cooks swear by Le Creuset’s longevity and uniform cooking temperatures.
Is Le Creuset really cast iron?
Le Creuset is a color development pioneer and the industry leader in very durable, chip-resistant enameled cast iron.