Choosing between a Le Creuset vs Staub? We discuss all the crucial pros, cons and differences after cooking with both
If youre stuck between bringing home a Le Creuset vs Staub Dutch oven, then wed say youre in a pretty good position. These two titans are by far the superior brands to be deciding among, especially when it comes to the best cast iron cookware. Lucky you that youre ready to delve into creating a collection. The good news: investing in a cast-iron Dutch oven or Cocotte from either of these names will make your cooking and the decor of your kitchen shine. We put them both to the test so that we can explain exactly why that is.
Whichever brand you eventually decide to buy, with one of the best Dutch ovens, youll be able to reach new culinary heights, as this type of cookware can withstand exceptionally high temperatures and make the perfect vessel for any slow cooking recipe. To give you a taste of both, below we establish, after reviewing them both, what we love about each of these brands, and what makes them different. Le Creuset Signature Round Dutch Oven Todays Best Deals
Weight of 5.5 Qt. 11.5 lbs. Sizes: 2-qt., 3.5-qt., 4.5-qt., 5.5-qt, 7.25-qt., 9-qt., 13.25-qt. Shapes: Oval or round Colors: 22 Dishwasher safe: Yes Temperature range: up to 500°F/ 250°C Warranty: Limited Lifetime RRP: $260-$625 / £195 – £455
Weight of 5.5 qt. 12.57 lb. Other sizes: .5-qt, 2.75-qt., 4-qt., 5.55-qt., 7-qt., 9-qt., 13.25-qt. Shapes: Oval or round Colors: 14 Dishwasher safe: Yes Temperature range: up to 500°F/ 250°C Warranty: Limited Lifetime RRP: $130-$600/ £109- £429
Le Creuset vs Staub: the differences (Image credit: Staub)
Obviously, theyve got cast iron in common, but what sets these two Dutch oven offerings apart? One distinction is the color of the enamel inside the ovens I tried. While the Le Creuset Dutch Oven features a light shade for easy clean-ups, my Staub cocotte of choice has a black interior, ideal for crisp searing.
Le Creuset has a similar Satin Black range, which they also designate for higher surface temperature cooking, such as frying, grilling, and searing. If flavor is important to you, then its good to know the particular surface used for this range creates a surface patina that develops after multiple uses and can enhance the flavor and experience you get as you cook.
During everyday cooking, I found that opting for the white enameled Le Creuset drastically helped me to monitor exactly what was going on in the pan, and meant that it was easier to prevent any scorching incidents. The enamel is exceptionally good at stopping foodstuff from sticking, and the white color means you cant afford to be anything but militant when it comes to cleanups.
The weight and lid fit of these ovens also varies. The Staub I tested was heavier, with a tight-fitting lid and a spiked underside that creates a self-basting environment. Inside, with the lid on, any dish that you cook should emerge perfectly braised and browned, with none of the moisture able to escape the confines inside. Meanwhile, the Le Creuset is noticeably lighter, a thing to note if you have to walk a fair distance to transfer your dish into your oven.
Another difference is cost, with Le Creuset pieces typically costing more its Staub counterpart. A 5.5 quart Dutch oven from Le Creuset retails for $420, which is no small fee. Comparatively, a Staub of the same size costs around $380. ( credit: Le Creuset)
Le Creuset vs Staub: the similarities
Both Le Creuset and Staub have become household names and are highly sought-after. To start with the similarities, both of these are premium French brands that have roots dating back to the 20th century, meaning they know exactly what theyre doing when it comes to cookware. The essential thing to know is: enameled cast iron Dutch ovens are the specialty across the board here.
Staub vs. Le Creuset Dutch Ovens: Head-to-Head Test Results Reveal the Winner
FAQ
Is Staub as heavy as Le Creuset?
How much does a Staub weigh?
How heavy is a Le Creuset?
Is Le Creuset lighter than other brands?
Is Staub heavier than Le Creuset?
Yes, Staub is heavier than Le Creuset. All cast iron is heavy but like for like-sized cast iron pieces, Le Creuset is approximately two or three pounds lighter than Staub. The weight category is down to personal preference. See the 4.5-qt Dutch oven size example below…
What is the difference between Le Creuset & Staub Dutch ovens?
Le Creuset also features slightly larger handles and a larger knob on its lid. The Staub Dutch oven I tested—the 3.75 quart French oven —has a slightly rounder, tapered bottom than the traditional Le Creuset round Dutch oven.
Are Le Creuset & Staub cookware the same?
At the time of writing, a 5.5-quart Le Creuset is $400, while a 5.5-quart Staub is $311. So, Staub’s a bit cheaper, but both are still expensive and within the same price range. And, ultimately, with a piece of cookware that’s going to last as long as a Dutch oven, you should invest in the one you really want.
What is the difference between Staub & Le Creuset lids?
The inside of the Staub side handles is uncoated, revealing bare cast iron. Lid Interior: The interior of Staub lids has small bumps that collect and evenly distribute evaporated liquid across the entire pot. Le Creuset lids have a smooth interior finish and don’t collect or distribute liquid as well.