What is a Dutch oven anyway?

A Dutch oven is a heavy-duty cast iron pot coated in enamel, designed for superior heat retention and even cooking. It’s built to go from stovetop to oven to table, making it perfect for long, slow cooking techniques—and dinner parties when you want something pretty on the table. Unlike a standard stockpot, the thick walls and tight-fitting lid help lock in moisture and maintain steady temperatures.

What are the best foods to cook in a Dutch oven?

Dutch ovens are incredibly versatile, but they truly shine in certain dishes:

• Braises and stews – Slow-cooked meats, like short ribs or pulled pork, come out fork-tender and full of flavor.
• Soups and sauces – Tomato sauce, chili, and hearty soups develop rich depth when cooked in a Dutch oven at a slow and consistent temp.
• Bread baking – The enclosed space mimics a professional bread oven, creating a robust rise as well as crisp crusts and soft interiors.
• Deep frying – Its thick base keeps temps consistent, ensuring perfectly crispy results.

How is a Dutch oven different from any other big pot?

If you’re debating between an enameled cast iron Dutch oven and a stainless steel or nonstick pot, consider this: enamel-coated cast iron provides even heat distribution, retains moisture, and prevents scorching. Unlike other materials, it maintains steady temperatures over long periods, making it ideal for slow cooking. Plus, the heavy, tight-fitting lid helps lock in moisture, meaning your brisket stays juicy and tender and your bread develops that coveted crumb.

That said, if you’re looking for a pot that’s light, fast-heating, and dishwasher-friendly, our Stainless Steel Dutch Oven might be the one for you. Everyone needs a pasta pot!

What should I look for when choosing a Dutch oven?

Not all Dutch ovens are created equal, and many brands upcharge for no good reason at all. Here are the features you should look for when shopping for a Dutch oven:

• Size: Consider how you’ll use your Dutch oven. Do you want an everyday workhorse to feed a family of four, or a statement piece to pull out for bigger dinners? Misen offers two sizes—5.5 qt for everyday meals and 7 qt for larger meals or big-batch cooking. Our wider, shallower Braiser is another option if you do a lot of shallow frying.  
• Durability: Look for a high-quality enamel with multiple layers. Other brands use a cheap dipping technique that eventually cracks and flakes (into your food!). We use a cutting-edge spray technique to apply four layers of enamel. You’d need a sledgehammer to chip that. 
• Handles: Seek out wide, easy-to-grip handles, which make maneuvering the heavy pot much safer.
• Heat retention: A thick base and walls ensure even cooking and long-lasting heat. Our Dutch Ovens have a 4.5 mm iron core—thicker than some of the more expensive options out there.

What's up with that grill lid?

One of the standout features of Misen’s Dutch Ovens is the 2-in-1 grill lid, which doubles as a stovetop grill pan. That means you’re getting two pieces of cookware in one—perfect for searing meats, grilling vegetables, or toasting up some grilled cheese. The ridged surface creates those beautiful char marks without the need for an outdoor grill. And since the lid is also made of enameled cast iron, it retains heat just as well as the pot itself.

Is a Dutch oven just for when I have company?

Nope! While it’s perfect for entertaining, a Dutch oven is also great for everyday cooking. The 5.5 qt size is ideal for weeknight meals and smaller households, offering the perfect balance of capacity and ease. Use it for your quick lentil soup, your one-pot pesto pasta, or a simple roast chicken. It’s all-in-one cookware that saves time and makes cleanup a breeze.