Why Buy Le Creuset Cookware?
A common question you are likely to ask yourself before buying cookware from this high-end brand is, Why buy Le Creuset cookware? And why is it so expensive? Because my goodness, the cookware is pricy.
So before you go shopping, take a little time and check out this article. In this article, you will 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
Background Information On Le Creuset
Founders | Armand Desaegher and Octave Aubecq founded Le Creuset. |
Founded | The company dates back to 1925 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 bakeware and tableware. However, Le Creuset currently outsources its ceramic ware offshore |
Signature Product | Le Creuset is best known for its enameled Dutch or French Ovens. |
Signature Color | Flame Orange |
Is Le Creuset Worth It?
High-end ceramic and enameled products from Le Creuset are certainly not the cheapest cookware on the market.
However, paying more for years of enjoyment could be worth the extra cost. Here are three points you might want to consider.
Why Is It 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 every day. Unlike other luxury brands, you may want to use them sparingly to increase the item’s longevity. But you can use cookware for years before needing to replace it, so why not choose cookware you will love to use? |
Brand Awareness And Quality | When you purchase any Le Creuset product, you know it comes from a trustworthy brand. And if you have any problems, the company is well-known to have excellent customer support willing to help you. |
Appearance | Sure, 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. |
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Why Is Le Creuset More Expensive Than Other Bands?
Authenticity is often the main reason why Le Creuset is so well-known. People see Le Creuset cookware and know it is a quality brand they can use and trust.
Customers rave about the product even if the brand is more expensive than most low-end options. And most do not mind paying for years of enjoyment. So why buy Le Creuset cookware, and why is it more costly than other brands? Here are some reasons below.
Why Is Le Creuset More Expensive Than Other Brands?
Ironware is made in France. | Experienced foundry workers in France will manufacture your ironware. Le Creuset has kept its manufacturing hub in France instead of conducting production offshore. However, doing this comes at a cost, as there is higher labor and running cost to base production in France. 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 will not look dated after a few years. The French company also makes its enameled cast-iron lighter than most other manufacturers, making its products more manageable |
A section of beautiful colors is available. | Most companies only have a few colors to choose from. However, Le Creuset manufactures its bakeware and cast-iron lines in various colors to suit every taste. |
Le Creuset Makes Its Cast Iron Cookware In France. But You Can Expect All Of Their Products To Be Of Good Quality.
Why is Le Creuset cookware so expensive? The company continues to manufacture cast-iron cookware in France. And maintains the highest quality control standards possible. For this reason, Le Creuset is a well-known and respected international brand that has appealed to many worldwide.
Le Creuset has over 100 retail stores in various parts of the world. 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.
When you buy Le Creuset iron cookware, you are supporting the local economy and community.
Iconic Design And Usability.
Because of high standards and casting expertise, Le Creuset has become the gold standard in producing Dutch Ovens.
The signature flame orange hue is still popular with consumers today despite the pot’s design being almost identical since its advent. Le Creuset cast-iron cookware remains popular with home cooks regardless of the cost.
One of the main benefits of using Le Creuset Dutch Ovens and casserole dishes is the thinner cast walls of the cookware. The lighter weight makes the cookware more suitable for daily use and a better experience for many owners.
Sadly, for many customers, their first experience using Dutch Ovens is with cheaper celebrity-endorsed cookware. I have noticed the quality can be less than desired, and the cookware tends to be weight. The weight of low-cost ironware can prevent many home cooks from ever using enameled cast iron again.
If you are looking for a usable Dutch oven every day, consider a Le Creuset. It rates highly on my best ovens list. But it does not come in the first place because of the high price. If you want to find a Dutch Oven suited to your needs, click the link.
Why Buy Le Creuset Cookware? Just Look 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 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 introducing colors unique to different countries. Visit a Le Creuset store in Japan, and you will likely find gentler, soft colors. While in European cities, you will probably see a wide range of traditional colors. You will see many enamel cast iron and brightly colored cookware in the States.
Is Le Creuset Cookware Any Good? Why Are People Willing To Pay A Premium?
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 | You can use enamel cast iron on multiple heat sources. So, if you buy a new stove, you will not have to replace your cookware. |
Easy To Maintain | Both ceramic bakeware and cast iron cookware are easy to maintain and clean. |
Great Thermal Density | Ceramic dishes and cast-iron cookware hold into heat so your meals will not go cold quickly. |
Exceptional Quality | If you buy Le Creuset cookware, you can expect it to be top-notch. |
Better Useability
All cookware Le Creuset produces is easy to pick up and handle. And when cooking at high temperatures, you want cookware that is easy to handle.
For example, the black knobs are resistant to heat. All the features of Le Creuset cookware are incredibly sturdy. People who prefer cooking with cast iron and stoneware understand the need for comfortable cooking features. These pots, after all, tend to get hot.
Some Le Creuset Cocottes have black stay-cool knobs that make them 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. Then, you can move the pot to the oven. Le Creuset enameled cast iron can also tolerate high heat up to 350 degrees F.
Enameled Cast Iron And Stoneware Are 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. Suppose you do have stubborn baked-on food. Leave your cookware to soak in hot, soapy water for a few hours.
The surfaces of Le Creuset cast-iron and ceramic products are more non-stick than stainless steel, which tends to stick—making the cleaning process straightforward.
Le Creuset Products Retain Heat Evenly.
The cast iron Le Creuset French oven has fantastic thermal density and will cook food evenly after heating.
It is excellent for cooking techniques such as poaching, simmering, browning, and braising. After cooling, you can put your enamel cast-iron pot in the refrigerator to store leftovers.
Quality Control And Standards.
Since Le Creuset has been in the game for nearly 100 years, consumers can rely on the quality. Unlike other brands, Le Creuset sources high-quality materials. The material includes:
- selected recycled iron
- steel
- pure pig iron
- carbon
- iron ore
Some people have concerns about recycled iron coming from heavy industries instead of a clean and safe source. If you have concerns about the origin of the iron, opt for a trusted brand such as Le Creuset.
Why Buy Le Creuset vs. cheaper 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 imitate the look of Le Creuset. But it depends on how much you want to spend. But there are quality differences between Le Creuset and cheaper brands.
What Sets Le Creuset Apart From Other Brands?
Use of Natural Cooking Materials | Cast iron with an enamel glaze is a natural nonporous cooking surface that is nonreactive to acidic food and will not leach metals such as nickel or chromium into your meals. |
Durability | Many cookware brands today are considered throwaway after a year or two. But you can expect Le Creuset cookware to last 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. Workers thoroughly check each piece of cookware for defects and imperfections before leaving the factory. |
Materials
The type of material used to produce cookware impacts how much the product costs. For example, an enameled cast-iron pot will cost more than an aluminum or stainless steel pot, owing to the properties and characteristics of the construction and materials. Le Creuset is well-known 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 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, these pots and pans might deteriorate after six months of use.
Over time, cheaper cookware may also warp due to sudden thermal changes, reducing the effectiveness and efficiency of the cookware.
Le Creuset cookware will maintain its aesthetic appeal and last much longer.
Retaining Natural Flavors
Some cookware may react negatively to particular types of food. For instance, aluminum reacts with tomato-based dishes and other acidic foods.
Reactive metal pans imply food can react with the cooking surfaces 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
Choosing expensive cookware such as Le Creuset beats inexpensive cookware because of the quality of construction. Le Creuset conducts thorough research to provide consumers with some quality cookware on the market.
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 mostly made with a single thin layer of glaze or metal? A single layer of glazing can chip easily, while a single metal layer, such as stainless steel, is a poor conductor of heat. It 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? Le Creuset cookware is worth it. Go for it.
The price for high-end Le Creuset goods allows you to enjoy the unrivaled quality and better construction.
Le Creuset is well-respected and valued for its cooking performance. The brand is synonymous with kitchen royalty because of the features mentioned above. Le Creuset customers are usually ultra-happy with the quality of the product.
When shopping, cost and the price point should remain a priority. However, it should not be the sole priority that affects your decision-making process. Le Creuset cookware is an excellent option, so why not treat yourself to new cookware?
Why Buy Le Creuset Cookware? I Think Le Creuset IIs Worth The Extra Cost. How About You?
Boonie Hicks Tips And Recommendation: Choosing The 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. |
The oven is a perfect all-rounder for all your kitchen needs. | It’s a great go-to pot. The size is similar to a large saucepan. |
You will likely see this oven used on your favorite cooking show or YouTube channel. | Ideal for everyday use. I strongly recommend this size for stovetop cooking. |
They are ideally suited for larger families and traditional cooking, such as braising and casseroles | Ideally suited for smaller families or couples. Or cooking large portions of pasta, curry, and soup. |
This pot is the iconic Le Creuset 5 1/2 quart oven you have always wanted. Buy now on Amazon (affiliate link) | You do not need to hide this pot in your cupboard for special occasions. This Le Creuset 3 1/2 quart pot is for daily use. Check it out on Amazon (affiliate link) |
The cookware is a joy to use and perfect in any kitchen. If you are considering buying a new piece of cookware, Le Creuset. I think it would make an excellent 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 beautiful. Le Creuset 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
… yeah but an enameled Lodge has literally all of those same pro’s, but is $60 instead of $500
The warranty is a lie.
I contacted their customer service, and unfortunately they addressed the problem with contempt. I do not feel I was treated respectfully. I have backup of invoice from WS from last year to prove the authenticity. I am starting to think Le Creuset is making profit out of getting people to pay extra for their inferior items which people bought for in regular price.
The public needs to know about these highly priced lemons out there.
Hi Cristy
I’m very sorry to hear of your bad experience with the customer services representatives. I’m very lucky to have had no problems with their products so far. As a large buyer of cookware, I to tend to buy at outlet shops to reduce cost. But I run the gauntlet of not being covered by their famous warranty by purchasing B grade products. Fingers crossed.
Although disappointing I wouldn’t give up on them. Care must be taken when using Le Creuset products to be covered by the warranty. But they should last a long time.
Cheers Cristy and thanks for sharing your experience.
I bought a Le Creuset cookware set in 1978 when I moved out of my parents house in to my own first duplex rental. My mother thought I was nuts for paying $200 for an 12 piece set: 2 covered saucepans with lids, frying pan & cover, multi-function pan, 2 1/2 & 4 1/2 Qt. casseroles with lids. I am still using them and have added pieces over the years.
I look on Ebay and see what my ‘classic’ items are going for and laugh. They are worth the investment. I actually dropped the larger saucepan on the ceramic tile floor (concrete underneath) and it cracked. This was around 2012, I called them and they sent out their newer replacement. They actually gave me 2 choices for the replacement, since they discontinued the wood handle pots. So lifetime warranty and best cooking pots you can get.
What’s not to like?
Hi Dusty
Thank you ever so much for sharing your experience of using and contacting Le Creuset.
I bet your mother fell over in disbelieve after paying for a 12 piece set. But good on you, it’s clearly been a sound investment. And I’m sure those pans have cooked up some scrumptious meals for your friends and family. And I bet your parents were very proud of you seeing you in your first home. Good on you.
I don’t have any Le Creuset saucepans, but I hear many saying they are great for daily use. Hope your new one is doing you proud.
Cheers Dusty and have fun cooking up a storm in the kitchen.
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.