Our Le Creuset Dutch Oven, Pots and Pans Collection
My husband and I are accidental Le Creuset collectors. After his aunt died, we inherited everything from her kitchen and that included nearly a dozen pieces of cookware, including a Le Creuset Dutch oven, plus pots and pans in all kinds of colors. I never realized the appeal of enameled cast iron cooking until I started using them. Then I was hooked.
The Appeal of Le Creuset Cookware
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There are a couple of reasons that home cooks like Bill and me as well as professional chefs love this brand. One is the fact that they can make the seamless transition from stovetop to oven, much like Corningware can go from freezer to oven without cracking. Also, they’re excellent at retaining heat, which is why we always bake our traditional sourdough bread in a Le Creuset Dutch oven.
Also, overall these enameled cast iron pots, pans and baking dishes are known for their durability. Even so, the brand’s commitment to quality is evident in their lifetime warranty. I love buying products that come with a guarantee, because it gives you peace of mind with your investment. Even if I never have to cash in on the warranty, I want to support brands that stand behind their products.
Le Creuset Colors and Collector’s Desires
Personally, one of the reasons that I’ve come to love my Le Creuset pieces is because of the colors. That should be obvious, given my love of Fiestaware, which also comes in a variety of colors. Yes, I love anything having to do with color.
Some of the classic colors for the enameled cast iron pots include Flame Orange and Marseille blue — we own both — as well as Cerise — that’s red — remain staples. As far as the baking dishes, red, white — technically called Meringue White — and blue are also popular. We own all three.
Collecting Advice
Some discontinued colors, however, have become highly sought after by collectors. Rare shades like Cobalt Blue and Kiwi Green can command premium prices on the secondary market. A single pot in these colors can sell for hundreds of dollars. I like to stalk my local thrift and Goodwill stores for vintage Pyrex and recently scored two new pieces.
True, I haven’t had as much luck finding Le Creuset items, though, possibly because they are so heavy and people simply might not want to donate them, given their heft. I don’t know. If I ever saw that vintage fondue set, even though I don’t eat fondue, I would snap it up and then find a reason to serve fondue at my next party!
For Jenna Urben of The Urben Life blog, “My Le Creuset collection began with a couple of Caribbean-colored pieces I received as a wedding gift. Over the years, I’ve added more, initially keeping them for display. Now, I bring them out for holidays and special occasions throughout the year.” Her advice to you, if you decide to start collecting Le Creuset? “Start with the pieces you’ll use most,” she says.
Comparing Lines and Brands
Le Creuset offers different ranges of cookware, each with its own unique features and benefits. Understanding the distinctions can help you make an informed decision when selecting pieces for your kitchen or for adding pieces to your collection.
Classic vs Signature Lines
Le Creuset’s Classic and Signature lines are both highly regarded, but they have some key differences. The Classic line is the original design, while the Signature line includes several updates and improvements.
The Signature line features larger handles for easier gripping, even with oven mitts. It also has a more heat-resistant knob that can withstand temperatures up to 500 F.
Signature pieces have a slightly larger cooking surface and higher sides, providing more capacity. The enamel interior is more resistant to wear and tear, making it even more durable than the Classic line.
Le Creuset vs Cuisinart
While both brands offer enameled cast iron cookware, there are notable differences between Le Creuset and Cuisinart. The biggest ones are cost and durability.
Le Creuset is known for its premium quality and craftsmanship. Their pieces are made in France and come with a lifetime warranty. The enamel coating is exceptionally durable and resistant to chipping. On Amazon, a typical Le Creuset Dutch oven costs $300.
Cuisinart, on the other hand, offers more budget-friendly options. On Amazon, a typical Cuisinart Dutch Oven costs a little over $100 or about one-third the price. The Cuisinart enameled cast iron is typically made in China and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
To be honest, I always thought that one of the blue enameled cast iron pots that we had inherited was Le Creuset. It looks like them, it is heavy like they are but you can really tell the difference on the inside. Whereas older Le Creuset pots still have intact enamel on the inside, I’ve noticed that the one Cuisinart pot looks like that enamel is starting to chip away. That shouldn’t happen.
By the way, sometimes you can find knock off Le Creuset Dutch oven pots in the Aisle of Shame at Aldi. Also, I’ve seen the real thing, from time to time, at Costco.
Shopping for Your Le Creuset Collection
Obviously, you can buy Le Creuset on Amazon, as I’ve already shared a link there. However, that is hardly the only place you’ll want to shop.
Of course, there is Le Creuset’s official website, which provides the most comprehensive selection of products and colors. Side note: as of this writing, it was a Rakuten participant. That means you can get cash back on your purchase. This article explains all about how Rakuten works.
Many department stores and big box stores sell Le Creuset, too. This includes:
- Nordstrom
- Williams-Sonoma
- Costco (you’ll have to visit your local Costco in person to buy. It’s not available online)
If you live near one, consider visiting Le Creuset outlet stores. For instance, I live in Maine and the Kittery Outlets have a Le Creuset store. Also, you can find Le Creuset from time to time at places like TJ Maxx and Marshall’s.
Final Thoughts
I would think that when it comes to collecting Le Creuset, you want cookware that comes with all of its pieces. For instance, if a baking dish has a cover, you’ll want the crock and the cover, too. Same with the Dutch oven. You want that top. So I would recommend that as you peruse thrift stores, garage sales or online marketplaces, make sure that the pieces you’re considering buying are not only authentic but are a full set with a top, if it should have top.