Why buy Le Creuset cookware?
A common question you’re likely to ask yourself before you buy cookware from this high-end brand is, “Why buy Le Creuset cookware?” If you purchase one of their French Ovens, you’ll be the envy of many foodies and home cooks. Everyone from industry professionals to home cooks seems to love Le Creuset. But goodness me, the cookware is pricy.
So before you go shopping, take a little time and check out this article. In this article, you’ll be able to learn the following:
- Is Le Creuset cookware worth the extra cost?
- Why is Le Creuset more expensive than other brands?
- Is Le Creuset is any good?
Table of contents
- Can you trust the information in this article?
- Background information on Le Creuset
- Is Le Creuset worth it?
- Why is Le Creuset so expensive?
- Is Le Creuset cookware any good?
- Le Creuset vs. cheaper cookware
- Final thoughts

Why trust this article, when everyone just seems to be selling me stuff?
Before you continue, there’s no doubt that Le Creuset cookware is expensive. But there’s plenty of pocket-friendly brands that will do you very proud. But that doesn’t answer your Le Creuset questions. Before we get into answering the questions, here’s why you can trust this article.
Table: why trust my article
I’m a cast iron collector | Yes, they are people who collect and use cast-iron cookware. I mostly collect 19th-century ironware, but I have visited many foundries and use a lot of cast iron and ceramic cookware. |
I own Le Creuset cookware | I’m one of the few bloggers that use both Le Creuset enameled cast-iron and also ceramic bakeware. However, I use cookware from Le Creuset’s competitors too. But let’s keep that between us. |
This a hobby site to learn about traditional cookery | Yes, I write the articles myself. Including articles on kitchen antiques, historical recipes, and traditional materials such as cast-iron and ceramic hollowware. |
Table: Background information on Le Creuset
Founders | Le Creuset was founded by Armand Desaegher and Octave Aubecq. |
Founded | The company was founded in the year 1925 and based in Fresnoy le Grand, France. |
Product Range | The company continues to grow and sells a wide range of cookware, tableware, and kitchen utensils. |
Cast-Iron Cookware | Le Creuset is well-known for its enameled cast-iron cookware. The company continues to manufacture all cast iron products in France. |
Ceramic Hollowware | The French company also sells a wide range of attractive bakeware and tableware. However, Le Creuset currently outsources its ceramic range offshore. |
Signature Product | Le Creuset is best known for its enameled Dutch or French Ovens. |
Signature Color | Flame Orange |
Boonie Hicks tip and recommendation: Choosing to right size Dutch Oven
Le Creuset 5 1/2 quart round Dutch Oven | Le Creuset 3 1/2 quart round Dutch Oven |
If I could only choose one size oven, this would be it. | Highly usable size without being too weighty. |
Perfect all-rounder for all your kitchen needs. | Great go-to pot. The size is similar to a large saucepan. |
You’re likely to see this oven used on your favorite cooking show or YouTube channel. | Ideal for everyday use. I strongly recommend this size for stovetop cooking. |
Ideally suited for larger families and traditional cookery such as braising and casseroles. | Ideally suited for smaller families or couples. Or cooking larger portions of pasta, curry and soup. |
This is the iconic Le Creuset 5 1/2 quart oven you’ve always wanted. Buy now in Amazon (affiliate link) | You won’t hide this pot away in your cupboard for special occasions. This Le Creuset 3 1/2 quart pot is made for daily use. Check it out on Amazon (affiliate link) |
Is Le Creuset worth it?
It’s a good question to ask. After all, high-end ceramic and enameled products from Le Creuset are certainly not the cheapest cookware on the market.
However, paying a little more for years of enjoyment could be well worth the extra cost. Here’s three points you might want to consider:

Table: Why it’s worth paying extra for Le Creuset cookware and bakeware?
Made for daily use | There is no need to hide your cookware away. You can use your ceramic bakeware and cast-iron cookware everyday. |
Brand awareness and quality | When you purchase any Le Creuset product you know it comes from a trustworthy brand. And if you do have any problems the company is well-known to have amazing customer support. |
Appearance | Let’s face you can buy any cookware and make tasty meals. But how many people proudly display their cookware? Le Creuset is available in many pretty colors and they look fantastic. |

Unlike other luxury brands, Le Creuset is made to be used daily
Le Creuset is in the same league with other high-quality and well-respected cookware brands such as Staub, Emile Henry and, Lodge Manufacturing. The products from these cookware brands can last generations. And they are often family heirlooms that can be passed one generation to the next.
The company has a great reputation and customer support
Another reason to choose Le Creuset over other brands is knowing that you are purchasing a quality product. This is especially important if you’re saving for your own cookware or buying for a loved one.
The last thing you want to happen is to buy a gift, and then the cookware arrives chipped or cracks on the first use. Better still this reputation is backed up with great customer support, just in case there is an issue.
There’s no denying it. Le Creuset cookware looks great in any kitchen
If you’re a home cook, cookware such as the Le Creuset French oven is the pride of the kitchen. They are the hero in both the traditional and contemporary kitchens. They are also highly decorative and many enjoy displaying their Le Creuset. This is a factor that is often missing in other cookware.

Boonie Hicks tip and recommendation. Le Creuset is famous for cast-iron. However, Le Creuset baking dishes and mugs are really popular and make great gifts.
If you want a little something for yourself or a gift then the Le Creuset mugs and 1-quart oval gratin dish (Amazon affiliate link) are great choices. Although they are not manufactured in France they are still Le Creuset products and therefore maintain a very high standard quality. |
The Le Creuset 12oz mugs (Amazon affiliate link) is a great first Le Creuset choice and are ideal birthday presents. The mugs have warm homely hues and a rustic charm that everyone loves. Be warned your friends are likely to invite themselves over for a cuppa. |
Why is Le Creuset more expensive than other bands?
Authenticity is often the main reason why Le Creuset is so popular. People see Le Creuset cookware and they know it’s a quality brand they can use, and trust.
Even if the brand is more expensive than most other low-end options, customers rave about the product and don’t mind paying for years of enjoyment. So why Le buy Creuset cookware and why is it more expensive than other brands? Here are some reasons below.
Table: Why is Le Creuset more expensive than other brands?
Ironware made in France | All Le Creuset cast iron products are manufactured in France. Needless to say, this increases the cost of production. However, as a benefit, the company can oversee production and maintain quality control. |
Iconic design and usability | Unlike other brands, Le Creuset products are timeless and won’t look dated after a few years. The French company also makes their enameled cast-iron lighter than most other manufactures, making its products easier to handle. |
Huge section of beautiful colors | Most companies only have a few colors to choose from. However, Le Creuset manufactures both their bakeware and cast-iron lines in a wide range of colors to suit every taste. |

Le Creuset make their cast iron cookware in France. But you can expect all of their products to be good quality
Why is Le Creuset cookware so expensive? The company continues to manufacture cast-iron cookware in France, and maintain the highest quality control standards possible. For this reason, Le Creuset is a well-known and respected international brand that has appeal for so many around the world.
Le Creuset has more than 100 retail stores distributed in various parts of the world. And aside from cookware, the company also produces:
- stainless steel cookware
- ceramics
- textiles
- kitchen and wine accessories

Despite the high price of producing cast-iron cookware in France, Le Creuset continues to operate its foundry in Fresnoy le Grand. Instead of shifting its production to cheaper locations like China, Le Creuset has remained loyal to its community. It bears the cost of producing high-end goods in France.
With that being said, customers also pay for the higher associated costs for keeping manufacturing onshore.
Iconic design and usability
Because of Le Creuset authentic production standards and techniques, it has become the gold standard in the production of Dutch Ovens.
The signature flame orange hue is still as popular with consumers today as it has ever been. Even though the design of the pot has not changed since its advent. Le Creuset cast-iron cookware is still sought-after despite its considerable expense.
One of the main benefits of using Le Creuset Dutch Ovens and casserole dishes is due to the thinner cast walls of the cookware. This makes the company’s ironware lighter than other manufacturers, including cookware from Staub.
Sadly, for many customers, their first experience using Dutch Ovens are with cheaper celebrity-endorsed cookware. And I’ve noticed the quality can be less than desired, and the cookware tends to be weighty. Putting off so many home cooks from ever using enameled cast iron again.
If you are looking for a useable Dutch Oven for everyday use then consider a Le Creuset. It rates highly on my best ovens list. But it doesn’t come in first place because of its high price. If you want to want to find a Dutch Oven best suited to your needs just click the link.
Why buy Le Creuset cookware? Just looks at those pretty colors
The cookware is available in a range of different colors that are unique to Le Creuset products. Colors such as the signature flame orange are vibrant, and they add a decorative quality to the cookware. Color is important because it adds an element of vibrancy to the table or kitchen.
Le Creuset also makes cookware to cater to all tastes. And the company even goes as far as to introduce colors unique to different countries. Visit a Le Creuset store in Japan, and you’re likely to find gentler soft colors. While in European cities, you’re likely to see a wide range of traditional colors. And you will see a lot of Enameled cast-iron colored in flame orange.

Is Le Creuset cookware any good? Why are people are willing to pay a premium?
Table: Why is Le Creuset cookware so good?
Design Features | From wide handles to heat resistant knobs, Le Creuset makes cooking a joy. |
Multiple Cooking Uses | Enameled cast-iron can be used on multiple heat sources. So if you buy a new stove, you won’t have to replace your cookware. |
Easy to Maintain | Both ceramic bakeware and cast iron cookware is easy to maintain and clean. |
Great Thermal Density | Ceramic dishes and cast-iron cookware, holds into heat so your meals won’t go cold quickly. |
Exceptional Quality | If you buy Le Creuset cookware, you can expect it to be top-notch. |

Designed for easy use
All cookware that is produced by Le Creuset is designed with the user’s comfort in mind. This means that you will love how easy it is to use.
For example, the black knobs are extremely resistant to heat. All the features of Le Creuset cookware are incredibly sturdy. People that prefer cooking with cast iron and stoneware understand the need for comfortable features when cooking. These pots, after all, tend to get really hot.
Some Le Creuset Cocottes have black stay-cool knobs that make it easy to handle. You can remove the lid from the pot without getting burnt but I still recommend using an oven mitt. These phenolic knobs can withstand high temperatures (as high as 400 degrees F).

Are Le Creuset Dutch ovens safe to use on your stovetop?
All Le Creuset cast iron cookware can be used safely on a stovetop or an oven. This feature is perfect for a mix of different cooking methods. For instance, you can braise a piece of meat on the stovetop, and you can move the pot to the oven. Le Creuset enameled cast-iron can also tolerate high heat of up to 350 degrees F.
Enameled cast-iron and stoneware is easy to clean
Ease of cleaning is a consideration, customers have before deciding to purchase new cookware. And here is where Le Creuset shines.
Le Creuset cast-iron and stoneware are easy to clean and maintain. All you need is a soft cleaning sponge or dishcloth and mild soap. And gently rinse and wipe clean. If you do have stubborn baked-on food. You can simply leave your cookware to soak for a few hours in hot soapy water.
The surfaces of Le Creuset cast-iron and ceramic products are more non-stick than stainless steel that tends to stick. Making the cleaning process easy and straightforward.
Le Creuset products retain heat evenly
The Le Creuset French oven is made from cast iron, this ensures heat is retained and distributed evenly. This feature is great for cooking techniques such as poaching, simmering, browning and braising. Additionally, enameled cast-iron pots can be put into your refrigerator to store any leftovers.
Quality Control and standards
Since Le Creuset has been in the game for nearly more than 100 years, consumers can rely on the quality. Unlike other brands, Le Creuset sources high-quality materials, which include selected recycled iron, steel, and pure pig iron. This means that the end product can last for years.
Why Buy Le Creuset vs. cheap cookware brands
When you start shopping for cookware, you will soon find that you will come across a broad range of prices. Some cookware may look similar and even imitating the look of Le Creuset. But depending on how much you want to spend, there are clear differences between Le Creuset and cheaper brands.
In exchange for a high price tag, Le Creuset customers get to enjoy enhanced cookware performance. The key differences between Le Creuset and other cheaper imitations may include:
Table: What sets Le Creuset apart from other brands?
Use of Natural Cooking Materials | If you want a food-safe cooking surface then, it doesn’t get any more natural than stoneware and cast iron. Cookware is covered with a natural glaze or enamel. |
Durability | A lot of cookware today is considered throwaway away after a year to two. But you can expect Le Creuset cookware much longer. |
Nonreactive Cooking Surface | Did you know stainless steel cookware leaches a little metal into your food? Enamelware, on the other hand, seals the cookware from the metal surface. And it is nonreactive when cooking acidic foods. |
Build Quality | When you purchase any Le Creuset, you can expect it to be well made. Each piece of cookware is thoroughly checked for defects and imperfections before leaving the factory. |

Materials
The type of material used to produce cookware definitely has an impact on how much the product costs. For example, an enameled cast-iron pot will cost more than an aluminum or stainless steel pot. This is owing to the properties and characteristics of the construction and materials. Le Creuset is popular for having superior thermal heat mass. That is why many professional cooks like to use the high-end brand.
Unlike low-end cookware, Le Creuset provides precise heating results without the possibility of hotspots once preheated. Thinner gauge materials on inexpensive cookware do not hold heat evenly and can also dent or warp.
Durability
Another difference between Le Creuset and other cheap brands is the quality of construction. Sure, there are pots and pans available for less than 100 dollars. However, after using them for six months, these pots and pans might start to deteriorate.
Over time, cheaper cookware may also warp as a result of sudden thermal changes, which reduces effectiveness and efficiency. Le Creuset cookware will maintain its aesthetic appeal and last much longer.
Reactivity
Some cookware may react negatively with particular types of food. For instance, aluminum tends to react with tomato-based dishes and other acidic foods. This implies food can actually react with metal cookware and will taint food. However, enameled cast-iron separates food from coming in contact with the metal surface. And your food will retain its natural flavors.
The quality of construction
Expensive cookware such as Le Creuset beats inexpensive cookware because of the quality of construction. Le Creuset conducts thorough research and is abreast of the trends and changes in the industry. Which is why it incorporates different elements and production techniques that deliver optimal cooking results.
Another answer to the question, Why should I buy Le Creuset cookware? Is cheaper cookware is mainly made with a single thin layer of glaze or metal. A single layer of glaze can chip easily, while a single metal layer such as stainless steel is a poor conductor of heat. And can cause hot spots in the cookware and burn your meals.

So why buy Le Creuset cookware? Why is Le Creuset so expensive? And is Le Creuset any good?
Based on all the above reasons, “Why buy Le Creuset cookware?” I think it’s clear that a Le Creuset purchase is definitely worth it.
The price that you pay for high-end Le Creuset goods allows you to enjoy the unrivaled quality and better construction.
Foodies love the brand, it is extremely well respected and most importantly valued for its cooking performance. This brand is synonymous with kitchen royalty because of the features mentioned above. Le Creuset customers are usually extremely happy with the quality of the product.
When shopping, your budget and the price point of various cookware sets should remain a priority. However, it should not be the sole priority that affects your decision-making process. Le Creuset cookware is a great option if you’re looking to treat yourself with some new cookware.

Why buy Le Cresuet cookware? I think Le Creuset worth the extra cost. How about you?

Have you enjoyed the article? If you’re interested here are some more great articles on cast-iron. Alternatively, you may want to check the prices for the 5 1/2 quart Dutch oven on Amazon (affiliate link).
The cookware is a joy to use and perfect in any kitchen. If you are thinking of buying a new piece of cookware Le Creuset we think it would make a wonderful addition to any kitchen. Investing in Le Creuset cookware is to get a product that delivers value for your money by lasting years. It also happens to be really beautiful. Le Creuset definitely does not disappoint.
References
- https://www.davidlebovitz.com/a-visit-to-the-le-creuset-factory/
- https://www.afar.com/magazine/heres-how-your-beloved-le-creuset-pot-was-made
- https://www.lecreuset.co.za/production
- https://www.lecreuset.com.au/en_AU/our-craft/cop008.html
- https://www.lecreuset.com.au/en_AU/frequently-asked-questions/cop001.html
- https://www.lecreuset.com.sg/faq/general
I have a tiny Le Creucet pot shaped like the Dutch oven that I’ve always used for rice because it’s the perfect size for 1 cup of rice and the heavy lid is a plus. The enamel started cracking and flaking off the inside bottom after a couple years. I wonder why this happened, and if the pot is still safe to use, because I’m still using it 20 years later, for rice. I do have to be careful not to scrape the bottom or I get crunchy enamel in the food. Thanks for your site; I have some antique cast iron found at thrift stores and enjoyed reading your info.
Hi Violet
Thanks for getting in touch. And it sounds like you enjoy your Le Creuset.
However, it disappointing the enamel is now flaking off. Yes I would stop using your pot. However, I would contact Le Creuset and tell them about the issues you are having. The company has very good customer support and should offer you some advice. And you never know, they might be able to offer a solution despite your pot being over 20 years old.
If Le Creuset offer no solutions it could be time to treat yourself, after all Christmas is around the corner. But in the meantime those trusty antique pans are going to do you proud I’m sure.
Cheers Violet and enjoy the festive season.
I have a Le Creuset grill pan. Food has always stuck to it; is there anything I should be doing to prevent this?
Hi Harriet
There’s a bit of an art to stop food sticking on enameled cast iron and stainless steel.
Try to have your food at room temperature before cooking in your preheated grill. Cooking on a low to medium temperature can prevent sticking. I’d also apply oil just before cooking before it runs into the grooves.
Most people like to use cast iron on a very high temperature. But lowering the temperature can greatly prevent sticking.
Cheers hope this helps and happy cooking.
I know Le Creuset is expensive but is Chasseur the next best product.
It is made in France under the same standards, cost is a big factor for me. I need to know if Chasseur is nearly as good and does the same.
Kind regards
Helen
Hi Helen
Thanks for getting in touch. I have my eyes on a Chasseur Dutch Oven and I would love to do a side-by-side comparison with Le Creuset in the future. I haven’t used Chasseur cast-iron so I’d have to do further research before giving any advice. But from all accounts the high end cookware brand is on a standard similar to Le Creuset and their products constantly recieve positive reviews.
Chasseur is still a premium brand and prices are lofty. However, there are other trustworthy brands such as Lodge and Cuisinart which offer Dutch Ovens at very reasonable prices but they are made in China and cast thicker than premium brands.
Another option is Staub, which is often compared to Le Cresuet in quality and their colored enameled Dutch Ovens are stunning. Staub make their cast iron in France, but they are a little heavier than Le Creuset if that is a consideration. I have several Staub Ovens and couldn’t be happier. Staub sometimes offer discounts around this time of year, so it could be a strong alternative to Le Creuset.
But pick up a cast iron oven within your budget, you’ll likely to see little cooking performance between premium brands and more budget-friendly options.
Cheers, hope this helps
I know three people who have had their stoneware casserole dishes crack while in the oven. I will never buy their stoneware now. Lucky for me I have some really old ones that have stood the test of time.
Hi Lorraine
Thanks for sharing your friends experiences. It must be very disappointing to find a cracked Le Creuset baking dish.
I hope your friends were able to take advantage of Le Creuset’s warranty. If your friends prefer ceramics made in France then Emile Henry make some beautiful weighty ceramics.
Why are their wares now made in China? It’s really disappointing.
Hi Isaac,
Firstly thank you for getting in contact. And sorry that you are disappointed. However, Le Creuset still makes their famous Dutch oven in France.
Currently, their ceramic range, kitchen utensils and stainless steel are outsourced to other regions including China. Even though it is manufactured to the highest standard I hope they decide to make all of their products in France someday. I agree with you 100 percent it’s disappointing for customers who expect Le Creuset products to be all made in France.
In defense of China, they are experts in ceramics and only Japan can claim similar heritage. The Yixing teapot, Ming Vase and The Terracotta Army which was made around 210 BCE show their expertise in the craft.
How well do the Chinese know ceramics? Europeans were still trying to perfect Bone China 1000 years after China had mastered the art. Safe to say they know how to make good ceramic-ware.
Thanks Isaac, I appreciate the comment.