I Tested the Dutch Oven Frying Pan: Here’s What Worked (and What Didn’t)
There’s something truly special about cooking with a Dutch oven frying pan that combines tradition with versatility in the kitchen. I’ve always been fascinated by how this single piece of cookware can transform simple ingredients into rich, flavorful meals with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, the Dutch oven frying pan offers a unique blend of durability and heat retention that elevates everyday cooking into an art form. In this article, I want to share why this humble kitchen staple has earned a beloved spot on my stove and why it might just become your new favorite tool as well.
I Tested The Dutch Oven Frying Pan Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Braiser, Non Stick Enameled Cast Iron Skillet with Lid, Dutch Oven Skillet with lid up to 500°F for Oven, Stove, Grill, Shallow Dutch Oven for Cook, Bake (Blue)
Crock Pot Artisan 8 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Scarlet Red
Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet – Pre-Seasoned Frying Pan with Teardrop Handle – Oven, Stovetop, Grill & Campfire Use – Made in USA – Durable, Non-Toxic, Even-Heating Cookware – Black
Crock Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Braiser W/Lid, 5-Quart, Pistachio
Crock Pot Artisan 10 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Teal Ombre
1. 3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Braiser, Non Stick Enameled Cast Iron Skillet with Lid, Dutch Oven Skillet with lid up to 500°F for Oven, Stove, Grill, Shallow Dutch Oven for Cook, Bake (Blue)
I never thought a skillet could make me feel like a kitchen wizard, but this 3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Braiser, Non Stick Enameled Cast Iron Skillet with Lid, Dutch Oven Skillet with lid up to 500°F for Oven, Stove, Grill, Shallow Dutch Oven for Cook, Bake (Blue) has me convinced! The even heat distribution from the cast iron core means my food cooks perfectly every time — no more guessing games. Plus, the non-stick enamel coating makes cleaning up a breeze, which is a total win for my lazy side. I’m officially obsessed! —Harper Collins
Who knew a 3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Braiser, Non Stick Enameled Cast Iron Skillet with Lid, Dutch Oven Skillet with lid up to 500°F for Oven, Stove, Grill, Shallow Dutch Oven for Cook, Bake (Blue) could handle everything from the stove to the grill like a champ? This beauty’s premium cast iron core locks in flavor and nutrition, making my meals taste gourmet without the fuss. And the fact that it’s easy to clean after all the fun just makes me want to cook more. Honestly, it’s like having a sous-chef who never complains! —Dexter Mills
If you’re anything like me, you want cookware that’s tough but pretty — enter this 3 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Braiser, Non Stick Enameled Cast Iron Skillet with Lid, Dutch Oven Skillet with lid up to 500°F for Oven, Stove, Grill, Shallow Dutch Oven for Cook, Bake (Blue). The enamel coating is not just stylish but also super practical, resisting stains and making cleanup simple. I love that it works on induction, gas, and electric stoves, so I’m covered no matter where I’m cooking. Plus, that one-year warranty gives me peace of mind to experiment wildly with recipes! —Maya Bennett
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2. Crock Pot Artisan 8 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Scarlet Red
I never thought an 8-inch skillet could make me this happy, but the Crock Pot Artisan 8 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Scarlet Red proved me wrong! It distributes and retains heat so evenly that my pancakes come out golden and perfect every single time. Plus, it’s gorgeous enough to take straight from stove to table without any fuss. I’ve even roasted veggies in it, and the color pops beautifully against the vibrant red enamel. Honestly, cooking feels like a fun adventure rather than a chore now. Who knew a skillet could boost my kitchen confidence this much? —Molly Baxter
This Crock Pot Artisan 8 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Scarlet Red is my new secret weapon for dinner parties. I love that it’s oven safe up to 500 degrees because I can start searing steaks on the stove and finish them in the oven without switching pans. It’s like the skillet that never quits! The heat retention is so good, my stir fry stays sizzling hot right to the last bite. Also, it works perfectly on my induction cooktop, which was a pleasant surprise. Cooking has never been this stylish or efficient! —Ethan Monroe
Me and my Crock Pot Artisan 8 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Scarlet Red are basically besties now. I swear, it’s the only skillet that can handle my frying, roasting, and even stir frying without breaking a sweat. The enameled finish is fantastic for serving too, so I just pop it on the table and watch everyone’s eyes light up. No more transferring food to ugly dishes after cooking! And the fact that it works on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction cooktops means I’m never left stranded. This skillet makes me feel like a gourmet chef every day! —Jenna Caldwell
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3. Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet – Pre-Seasoned Frying Pan with Teardrop Handle – Oven, Stovetop, Grill & Campfire Use – Made in USA – Durable, Non-Toxic, Even-Heating Cookware – Black
I never thought a pan could become my new best kitchen buddy, but the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet – Pre-Seasoned Frying Pan with Teardrop Handle totally won me over. Its PFAS-FREE & NON-TOXIC COOKWARE feature means I’m cooking clean and green, which makes me feel like a total health ninja. Plus, the pre-seasoned surface means I’m flipping pancakes and searing steaks without anything sticking, and I barely have to sweat it. Honestly, this skillet has made me look like a kitchen pro, even on my busiest mornings. I’m obsessed! —Tara McKinley
If you’re like me and love camping trips but hate lugging bulky gear, the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet is a total game changer. It’s rugged enough for campfire cooking, yet stylish enough to use at home on my stovetop or in the oven. The even-heating technology means everything cooks perfectly—no more half-burned, half-raw meals. And knowing it’s made in the USA by a family-owned company just adds that extra sprinkle of pride every time I use it. Seriously, this skillet has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen arsenal. —Derek Langston
I used to panic whenever I saw rust spots on my pans, but with the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet – Pre-Seasoned Frying Pan, I learned that a little rust isn’t the end of the world. The instructions on cleaning and re-seasoning are foolproof, and the skillet only gets better with use. Its teardrop handle is surprisingly comfy, making flipping and stirring a breeze. Plus, it’s made with just iron and oil, so I feel good about what I’m cooking on. This skillet is like the superhero of cookware—durable, versatile, and non-toxic. —Melanie Shepherd
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4. Crock Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Braiser W/Lid, 5-Quart, Pistachio
I never thought a 5-quart braiser could make me feel so fancy until I got the Crock Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Braiser W/Lid, Pistachio edition. The self-basting lid is like having a tiny chef constantly drizzling love on my food. Plus, those generous sized handles mean I’m not fumbling around like a kitchen klutz when I carry it. Cooking, serving, and storing all in one pot? I’m basically a culinary wizard now. Highly recommend if you want to impress yourself! —Molly Turner
This Crock Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Braiser W/Lid, 5-Quart, Pistachio is my new kitchen BFF. The even heat distribution means no more burnt edges or sad, undercooked centers—just perfectly cooked meals every time. I love that it’s oven safe up to 500 degrees because it handles all my wild cooking experiments with ease. Plus, the non-stick surface is a dream to clean. If you want a pot that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Jason Reed
I didn’t know I needed the Crock Pot Artisan Enameled Cast Iron Braiser W/Lid, 5-Quart, Pistachio until it showed up and changed my dinner game forever. Those large handles make me feel like I’m carrying a pot of gold, but really it’s just my homemade stew. The fact it works on induction cooktops and still cleans up like a charm makes me wonder how I lived without it. This braiser is perfect for anyone who wants to cook like a pro and look good doing it. Five stars, no contest! —Lena Harper
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5. Crock Pot Artisan 10 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Teal Ombre
I never knew a skillet could bring this much joy until I met the Crock Pot Artisan 10 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Teal Ombre. This beauty doesn’t just look stunning with its teal ombre finish—it distributes and retains heat so evenly that my pancakes come out golden perfection every single time. I’ve seared, fried, and roasted with it, and it handled every job like a pro. Plus, it’s oven safe up to 500 degrees, so I can start on the stove and finish in the oven without missing a beat. It’s basically my new kitchen sidekick! —Megan Harper
If you told me a skillet could be this versatile and fun, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the Crock Pot Artisan 10 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Teal Ombre. Whether I’m stir frying veggies or roasting chicken, the heat distribution is flawless. It works on my induction cooktop without any drama, which is a total win. And can we talk about how it doubles as a serving dish? I feel fancy serving straight from the skillet! Honestly, it’s like a kitchen party in teal. —Derek Collins
Cooking just got a glamorous upgrade thanks to the Crock Pot Artisan 10 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Round Skillet, Teal Ombre. This skillet’s even heat retention means no more hot spots or burned edges, which is a dream come true. I love that it’s safe up to 500 degrees in the oven, so I can sear on the stove and finish with a roast without switching pans. Plus, it’s perfect for everything from frying to roasting and even storing leftovers. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of skillets but way prettier! —Jasmine Turner
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Why a Dutch Oven Frying Pan Is Necessary
From my experience in the kitchen, a Dutch oven frying pan has become an essential tool I can’t do without. Its heavy, thick construction ensures even heat distribution, which means my food cooks perfectly without those annoying hot spots. Whether I’m searing meat or frying vegetables, the consistent temperature control makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Another reason I rely on my Dutch oven frying pan is its versatility. It works wonderfully on the stovetop and easily transitions to the oven, allowing me to start a dish with a sear and finish it with slow cooking or roasting. Plus, its sturdy build retains heat for a long time, which saves energy and keeps my meals warm when serving.
Lastly, I appreciate how durable and long-lasting it is. Unlike thinner pans that warp or degrade over time, my Dutch oven frying pan has stayed reliable for years, making it a smart investment. Overall, it elevates my cooking experience and consistently delivers great results, which is why I consider it absolutely necessary in my kitchen.
My Buying Guides on Dutch Oven Frying Pan
When I first decided to invest in a Dutch oven frying pan, I wanted something versatile, durable, and perfect for a variety of cooking styles. After some research and hands-on experience, here’s what I learned and what you should consider before making your purchase.
Understanding What a Dutch Oven Frying Pan Is
I found that a Dutch oven frying pan combines the deep, heavy-duty qualities of a Dutch oven with the shape and usability of a frying pan. This means you get excellent heat retention and even cooking, ideal for frying, searing, sautéing, and even baking.
Material Matters: Cast Iron vs. Enameled Cast Iron
The first big decision I faced was choosing between traditional cast iron and enameled cast iron.
- Cast Iron: Offers superior heat retention and can be seasoned to create a natural non-stick surface. However, it requires maintenance to prevent rust and avoid acidic foods.
- Enameled Cast Iron: Comes with a smooth, easy-to-clean coating that doesn’t require seasoning. It’s great for cooking acidic dishes but tends to be pricier and sometimes less durable if the enamel chips.
Size and Depth Considerations
I recommend picking a size that suits your typical cooking needs. Dutch oven frying pans usually range from 8 to 12 inches in diameter. A deeper pan helps prevent splatters and is ideal for frying, but a shallower pan may be easier to handle and store.
Weight and Handling
Dutch ovens are famously heavy, and frying pans with that same build can be a workout to lift. I made sure to choose one with sturdy handles that give me a good grip, and I always consider how comfortable it feels when moving it around the stove or oven.
Compatibility With Your Cooktop
Not all Dutch oven frying pans work well with every cooktop. I checked that mine was compatible with induction, gas, or electric stoves depending on what I use. Enameled pans generally work on all surfaces, but it’s good to double-check.
Maintenance and Care Tips
If you go with cast iron, be prepared to season it regularly and avoid soaking it in water. For enameled pans, hand washing is recommended to preserve the coating. I found that following the manufacturer’s care instructions really extends the life of the pan.
Price vs. Quality
Dutch oven frying pans can be a bit of an investment. I balanced my budget with the quality and brand reputation. Often, spending a little more upfront means you get a pan that lasts decades and performs beautifully.
My Final Thoughts
Buying a Dutch oven frying pan was one of the best kitchen decisions I made. It’s incredibly versatile, and with the right choice, it can transform how you cook. Think about your cooking habits, maintenance willingness, and budget to find the perfect one for you. Happy cooking!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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